THREE WAYS YOUNG PEOPLE DESTROY THEIR LIVES

     The first way is by seeking the wrong kind of place to belong

when there seems to be no support at home. They are searching for

attention, support, and acceptance by anyone. Many times this comes

in the form of gangs. The influence of gangs is very rarely

positive. Gangs have reputations of trouble and those involved in

them usually pay a dear price for belonging to one through death,

prison, or physical and psychological harm. Usually, "my friends"

leave when trouble comes along. But, "there is a friend who will

stick closer than a brother" (Proverbs 18:24).

     The second way young people destroy their lives is by greed.

They see something they want and take it at the cost of another's

injury in many cases. They have not been taught that the way to get

things honestly is by hard work and education. They see others

steal and rob on television and think that is cool or okay. The one

who steals always pays a heavy price. Greed has caused the downfall

of many people and their families. Indeed, families suffer along

with young people from shame and reproach.

     The third way that many young people destroy their lives is by

the lust of the flesh, the eyes and desires. What a person dwells

upon will soon become actions. If a person reads or focuses on

pornography, illicit sex, and such like, he or she will instill

impure thoughts into his or her mind and heart.  The more one

thinks about these things the stronger the urge and desire are,

until they become uncontrolled actions. Read the story of David and

Bathsheba. David looked and lusted, which led to adultery, deceit

and murder (2 Samuel 11).

   ---Jack Thompson, preacher for the White Park church of Christ.

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