Youth

Youth

"Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth. Walk in the ways of your heart and the sight of your eyes. But know that for all these things God will bring you into judgment." (Ecclesiastes 11:9 ESV)

It is beautiful to be young, life is full of wonder and possibility. Make the most of life and its possibilities, but remember that you are setting the foundation for your future.

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I have a little problem with social anxiety at the United Church of God congregation I attend. Every time any of the youth talk to me I just freak out. I don't know what to do. I was wondering if I could ask some help or advice.

I want to enjoy local youth events like the barn dance, but I am just too afraid.
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Avoiding Generosity Burnout!

Many charitable organizations are facing financial strain. Not one would say it has enough funding. Charities try to stem the tide of an increasing staffing cost while maintaining focus on their primary cause. They reach out to the public for...
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The History of Dating

Ever wondered what dating was like a century ago? Read this article to gain historical insight regarding arranged marriages, courting and how current dating practices evolved.
a blue and white ukrainian flag
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Letters From Ukraine

Katie Durham shares her experiences from an opportunity to serve in Chernobyl
a man and a woman in a grayscale of a bridge of a body of water
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To Date, or Not to Date?

Practical and godly advice on when and whom to date
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How Do You Recover From a Costly Mistake?

When a broken bone heals, the body creates an area of increased density and strength at the site of the break. Godly repentance from sexual sins can strengthen your life.
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True Dating: What Guys & Girls Want

Like a perfect rose blooming in a pockmarked battlefield is the fine art of true dating. Most of what you've learned about dating in popular culture is like the battlefield. Want to keep your emotions, body and spirit flying safely...
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The Greatest Humanitarian Cause

Want to make a real difference in this troubled world? Where can you start?
a smiling woman with a backpack standing in the middle of a road in a city
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God's Way: An Adventure Abroad

In a world where chasing new experiences often means bending or breaking old rules, two former exchange students discovered that living by God's principles not only enhanced their travel experiences but also deepened their spiritual growth.
a basketball
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Basketball Is Her Second Goal . . . Her Religion Is Number One

Sports have been a big part of life for Jenny Stewart. So have her religious beliefs.
shapes of a forest, lake, moose and setting sun silhouetted in contrasting colors
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Why I Serve at United Youth Camps

Staff from United Youth Camps discuss why serving at camp is so important to them.
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Just for Youth... Making Peace

What should you do when friends are at each other's throats?
"Father, Please Heal My Broken Heart"
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"Father, Please Heal My Broken Heart"

The emotional pain inflicted on us by others can be far worse than the physical wounds we experience. What is the right ointment for wounded hearts?
Vertical Thought October - December 2003
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A New Magazine Is Born

Introduction of the new Vertical Thought Magazine
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I have a friend who has started wearing all black clothes. People are making fun of her, and she supposedly told someone she is gothic. She has been a good friend, so what should I do or say to help her?

Should I stop hanging out with her, because of the way she dresses, and will people judge me like that if I hang out with her?
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My Days at Preteen Camp

Preteen Camp: It’s a wonderful experience that shouldn’t be missed. Look inside to see pictures and get more information on one of the U.S. preteen camps.
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Who's Minding Your Grandchildren?

Parents aren’t always able to stay home with their children. One option may be the children’s grandparents. Here is one woman’s experience with her own grandchildren.
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Learning from your Grandparents

Families are made up of different generations. Grandparents have a strong role in the family and here is one example of that love and honor.
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Creating a Safe Place to Grow (Expanding "the Zone")

What makes "the Zone" practiced at United Youth Camps so successful? Can we build this into our families, congregations and community?
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World News and Trends: Teenage sex linked with serious depression

A survey sponsored by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development along with 17 other U.S. federal agencies has revealed a startling link between teenage sexual activity and depression and suicide.
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