One Life, Lasting Impact
August 23, 2026
Dr. Paul Cannings
We never know the impact we can have on a young person—an impact that can change their life forever and lead them to accomplish things that bless others. Every time we look past someone God has allowed us to touch, we diminish our usefulness and miss an opportunity to make a difference.
It is not about how we conquer the world; it is about how effectively we make a difference when God allows us to touch even one life for Christ. When life becomes all about paying bills, working jobs, and acquiring possessions, we have lost our focus.
How would you have responded if you did not know that the person you were speaking to was Jesus Christ at twelve years of age? Would you have been too busy to stop and listen? Would you have missed church because you were tired from a hard week of work? Would you have accused Him of asking too many questions, told Him that a child should know His place, or instructed Him to find His parents and worship with them?
Jesus said, “Let the children alone, and do not hinder them from coming to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14–15, NASU)
Perhaps He said this with the following truth in mind:
“Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever then humbles himself as this child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives one such child in My name receives Me; but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a heavy millstone hung around his neck, and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.” (Matthew 18:3–6, NASU)
Throughout history, young people have accomplished extraordinary things that have influenced generations. Josiah was only 8 years old when he became king of Judah, yet God used him to lead significant spiritual reforms throughout the nation (2 Kings 22 – 23). Romulus was approximately 20 when he founded Rome. John Calvin was 21 when he joined the Reformation and 27 when he wrote the Institutes, profoundly influencing theological thought for centuries. Martin Luther became a prominent reformer in his twenties and launched the Reformation at age 30. Joan of Arc accomplished her historic work and was martyred at only 19. Alexander the Great began his major conquests at approximately 20 and became ruler of a vast empire by 23. Isaac Newton was 24 when he formulated his theory of gravity and had made many of his greatest discoveries before the age of 25. Cyrus McCormick was 23 when he invented the mechanical reaper. Charles Dickens wrote The Pickwick Papers at 24 and Oliver Twist at 25.[1]
These examples remind us that we should never underestimate what God can accomplish through a young person who is willing to follow Him. We must see beyond their age and recognize their God-given potential. Our responsibility is not merely to correct young people, but to encourage, guide, disciple, and prepare them to fulfill God’s purpose for their lives.
Scripture reminds us:
“Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near when you will say, ‘I have no delight in them.’” (Ecclesiastes 12:1–2, NASU)
This is our Youth Month! Let us rejoice and celebrate God with us as we celebrate our young people. Let us make every opportunity count, because the life we encourage today may be the life God uses tomorrow to bless countless others.