Hi, I'm back... for a post or two.

I decided to write another post from my notes.

And before I wrote this, I asked the Lord to inspire me, and He sure did!

I could've written a lot more, but to save time and space, I narrowed it down.

Many of us tend to get wrapped up in the idea

that our goal in life is to be happy.

We constantly go out of our way, no matter how small, 

for our own happiness.

Buy a new do-dad, eat a yummy snack, watch TV, etc...

But what we need to realize is that we're NOT created

for our own happiness, but to glorify God;

in one sense, it doesn't really matter if we're happy or not!

(Of course, God does desire for us to be happy,

but our focus shouldn't be on trying to be happy,

but on doing God's will- which is what brings true happiness.)

When we forget our own desires and concentrate on

giving our lives in service for God and others,

He fills us with unexpressive joy!

Because loving God and others makes us happy,

while loving ourselves keeps us lonely.

If our single years are spent simply waiting for 'Prince Charming',

feeling self-pity, & dreaming of being married, life will be miserable.

But if these years are spent serving the Lord,

each day will only get sweeter.

So as you see, youth is full of the most valuable years in life.

Few people realize just how valuable these single years

can be for the Kingdom of God.

It's sad that today's teenager seems to think these years

are a time it's OK to be irresponsible, have problems,

rebellion, and struggles.

But this is completely opposite of how the Lord desires our teen years.

He tells us in 1Timothy 4:12,

"Let no man despise his youth;

After all, when the years of our youth are gone,

they've vanished forever.

The decisions we make now will affect the entire life ahead of us.

Not only is youth valuable, but it's powerful.

The world will often listen to young people

more quickly than they will adults.

Mature and wise youths stand out today;

they're noticed and their voice is heard.

What a wonderful time to share the gospel!

And I strongly encourage you, as a young, single person,

to devote yourself to the work of the Lord.

Since these years are full of so much potential, 

it is time now to start learning good qualities and good character.

Singleness is a special gift that is very profitable and fufilling.

So marriage cannot be our ultimate goal in life;

We must purpose in our hearts to have a life purpose

serving the Lord, giving our enitre lives to Him.

If we don't, we won't be fully prepared for marriage.

And unless we're focused on His work,

we'll never be fulfilled in singleness or marriage.

"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness;

and all these things shall be added unto you."

Matthew 6:33