Pioneer Operating Budget
Youth make up a significant part of the church and they represent the present and future of our faith community. The youth bring several God-given qualities to the church, including (but not limited to) vitality, fresh perspectives, creativity, relevancy, renewed energy, and enthusiasm. Engaging them in the operations of the church ensures continuity of our religious distinctions and allows them to develop strength in their moral and spiritual responsibilities.
One such spiritual responsibility is to be a faithful steward. Writing to the youth, Ellen G. White points out that young people should be taught that it is their privilege to help out in the cause of
Christ and should practice self-denial. “It is the duty of all who touch the work of God to learn economy in the use of time and money” (Counsels on Stewardship, p. 292). This suggests that young people have much to offer to the mission of Christ when it comes to their financial faithfulness, their time, and their talents.
Solomon shares an important insight that agrees with the sentiments of Mrs. White. He says, “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it” (Proverbs 22:6, NIV). Young people should be given the tools, the encouragement, and the help needed to model Christ-centered stewardship.
May our youth worship God in Spirit and in truth as we faithfully use our gifts to glorify God.
—North American Division Stewardship Ministries
