Leveling Up: A Devotional for 6th GradersSample

Day One: Don’t Wait

And don’t let anyone put you down because you’re young.

Stepping into middle school is an exciting time… and kind of terrifying and confusing all at once. You might feel pressured to impress the older kids or try to be something or someone you’re not. You might believe since you’re not an adult yet, you’re too young to be used by God. But living out God’s purpose has NOTHING to do with how old you are.

In 1 Timothy 4:12, Paul encouraged a young teenager named Timothy to not let anyone look down on him because of his age. Believe it or not, the Bible is full of people your age who God used to do incredible things. David was only a teenager when he took out Goliath (1 Samuel 17). Namaan’s maid was just a young girl when she directed him to Elisha to be healed (2 Kings 5:1-14). Remember the kid who gave his lunch to Jesus to feed a crowd of over 5,000 people (John 6:1-11)? Your age doesn’t disqualify you from being part of a move of God!

Don’t wait until you’re older to try and find your voice and impact those around you! You’re exactly where God needs you to be, and you’re never too young to make a difference and influence the people around you.

Challenge: Memorize the first part of 1 Timothy 4:12. (Hint hint: It’s already at the top of the page for you!)