A YOUNG MAN’S RESOURCE

We do not know the age of the writer of this psalm, but in verse 9 he has a special word for the young: “Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way?”. Older people need to have their ways cleansed as well as those who are young, so why leave them out? The period of one’s youth is the time for the formation of character, and a good start is essential. Lessons learnt in youth are seldom forgotten. The Bible tells us, “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man”, Prov. 14. 12, and if it appears to be right, why should he not take it? But the remainder of the verse warns of its end. Whatever that way may be, it is man’s way and ends in disaster. How can a young man start on the right way, and keep his way clear of defilement? “By taking heed thereto according to thy word”. In verse 11, the writer then speaks of his own experience, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee”.

What strong support this gives to Sunday School work and all activities that are for the purpose of teaching young people the Word of God. There was a day when the Scriptures were taught in the day schools, but alas, this is being discontinued on every hand. It is not difficult to see a link between this omission and the upsurge of youthful crime. In Genesis 39, we read of a young man, Joseph, sorely tempted to sin by his master’s wife. His refusal was definite: “How can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?”. He was more concerned about God’s thoughts than his master’s. He knew that his God hated sin. How did he know? In whatever way he had learnt it, this stood him in good stead at that time.

The New Testament tells us of another young man, Timothy, concerning whom it is written in 2 Timothy 3. 15, “from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures”. What a privilege! A firm foundation had been laid when impressions were strong. Now he was a teacher of others, but still young and still needing the secret of cleansing. Paul, writing to his young friend, recognizes this, and gives good advice, “Flee also youthful lusts:but follow righteousness”,2Tim.2. 22:go back to the Word.