I had the privilege of homeschooling this young man during his 3rd. 6th grade years, before he returned to the public schools, where he has been playing football.
Below are the thoughts I shared with him before a number of friends and family.
-------------------------------------------------------------
J.R., I am privileged to speak to you today. I remember when the Lord prompted me to take you under my wing for a time. First, taking you to Promise Keepers and then taking you out like each of my own children. Then homeschooling you with C., R. and J. When the time came for changes, it was not easy for me to let go, as you had become like a son to me. Releasing you to go down a different path in life than mine was very difficult, emotionally, for me.Since then, I have had opportunities to see and hear about how you were growing into manhood and I have liked what I have been hearing. The Lord seems to be working greatly in your life. J., turning 16 is a significant time of transition in your life. You are given new privileges, like driving a car and freedom to spend your own money, and responsibilities, like driving safely, and earning your own money. You are on your way to becoming a man. In fact you are a young man. At this time I want to give you encouragement in being a true, a real man. It is more than simply gowing older and bigger, I know as I have done both. In addition, I want to give you a gift to remind you of the challenge I leave with you today.Lev 19:2 and 1 Peter 1:16
"Be holy, for I am Holy"
These are the words of God and they speak of holiness, implying purity, perfection, being set aside for a purpose.
In the box you should have found a signet purity ring. It is to be a reminder to you that you are to remain pure, in very sense, sexually and otherwise. It is a costly thing because your purity is priceless. Yet this ring is more than that. On it you will find a 'coat of arms', representing the armor of God. Look to Eph 6 to remind you of the armor and tools of a 'Godly man.' The Belt of Truth The Breastplate of righteousness (Christ's) The helmet of salvation The shield of faith The gospel of peace And the Sword of the Spirit (the word of God) J., I want this ring to remind you of something else as well. I want it to remind you of what it means to be a real man. During our times together I tried to share what I believed God wants a man to be To be like Jesus and follow him, Jesus who was THE true man.
As men we are to:
- Reject Passivity--we take an active role in life, discerning what his right, and DOING it, no passing the buck like Adam did in the Garden
- Accepting Responsibility--for ourselves and those around us, who depend on us. We do what's right even if it hurts
- Lead Courageously--Like Jesus. We are to be servant leaders, to be the first in serving. Lead in doing what is right. (Adam should have been leading, beating Satan with the hoe, instead he was following)
- Expect God's Greater Reward--Our reward is not in this life. It is in doing what is right, and enjoying our relationship with the Lord. God is faithful and rewards those who obey him.
J., we cannot be the men we are called to be by ourselves. We must depend on God to show us, to strengthen us. We also need other men to help us.
Proverbs 27:17
As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another
Exodus 17:2 Aaron and Hur with Moses
Lastly, hear the words from the apostle Paul
"Be watchful,
Stand firm in the faith,
ACT LIKE MEN,
Be strong.
Let all that you do be done in love."
1 Cor 16:13-14 ESV
J., we love you.
Come to any of us if you are ever in need.
Be the man, and be blessed by God.
