One of my favorite stories in the bible comes from the book of John, Chapter 6. The bible says Jesus, at that time, had attracted a huge crowd of people because they were drawn to the miracles he was performing. So, what do we know about this situation? We know there were at least 5,000 hungry men – not including women and children. A serious crowd. What else do we know? We know the disciples did not have the money to feed that many people. They needed a major miracle. Anything else stick out? We know there was a young boy in the crowd who had five barley loaves and two fish. There’s no mention of why he had fish and bread or why he was in the crowd in the first place, but we know he wasn’t selfish – because the bible says later in the chapter Jesus took the boy’s food, blessed it and gave it to the crowd. Jesus fed over 5,000 men, 12 disciples and a countless number of women and children with two fish and five loaves of bread. And the final miracle – there were leftovers.

Why should you care about this story? Because we have grown accustomed to hearing how God uses adults to accomplish his will on the earth. But what about the youth? First, it seems reasonable to believe the young boy was in the crowd because he, too, was intrigued by Jesus. He also wanted to be in his presence. Secondly, because the young boy unselfishly gave what he had to Jesus, not only did he eat until he was full, but his gift fed thousands of men, women, and children as well. And they all ate until they were full as well. God can take your gift – whatever it is – singing, playing an instrument, praying, organizing things – and use them for his glory. Yes, to accomplish his will. Not only will you experience his blessings, but those around you will be blessed because you said yes to Jesus.

The reality is, there are many adults – hopefully unsaved adults – who will downplay your offerings, undervalue your gifts, look over your talents, and disregard your skills because of your youth. Look at David. Before he was king of Israel, he was a young boy with five smooth stones that God used to single-handedly delivered Israel from Goliath and the Philistines as the adults looked on. Just as God used David, and Samuel, and Daniel, and Joseph, and the three Hebrew boys, and the list goes on – he can use you, too! Do not be afraid to submit your gifts to God. He will bless them, increase them, and help countless others in the process.

ABOUT OUR CONTRIBUTOR:

For over a decade, Kay Norsworthy aka “Sister Kay” has committed her kingdom service to youth ministry. From youth worker, to youth leader to youth pastor – as well as founding a nonprofit organization in the Midwest dedicated to mentoring and developing youth of all ages and backgrounds – her focus has been clear – helping youth find God in their respective situations. Her message: God is always present, and He never fails.   Sister Kay currently serves as the Youth Pastor at the Mt Sinai Church of God in Christ.  Each week, she engages young people for a dynamic time of Bible study, prayer, and other social activities.