(Exo. 24:1-18)

Just before Moses was called up into the mount to be with the Lord and to receive instructions, the children of Israel had some new encounters with God.  Once again, they heard the word of God and His judgments rehearsed in their ears, the book of covenant was read again to them.   They were all thrilled and with one voice said “All the words which the Lord hath said will we do.”  (Exodus. 24:3, 7).  In fact, they renewed their covenant with God.  They saw the glory of God like devouring fire on the top of the mount. Many youths in their early adolescents or teenage life had glorious experiences of the Lord.  They received wonderful teachings and they believed in what they received (cons. 2 Timothy. 3:14-15). They memorized, recited and applied the memory verses given them as children and took same with them as they marched into the teenage life.  Parents, pastors, teachers, etc. taught them morals and values from homes, Church and school (Deuteronomy 6:6-9; Proverbs 6:22; 2 Timothy 1:3).  These values were accepted, and many got the experience of salvation and much more.  They walked by the doctrines and principles of God in the place they found themselves, even true churches and served the God of their fathers (cons. Jeremiah 35:1-14).  Such life styles of moderation in dressing, having regular fellowship, prayerfulness, active participation in Church activities, regulating television programmes or movies watched, purity in relationship with the opposite sex, obedience and respect for parents and elders, adherence to examination rules and terms of service as apprentices, etc. were attended to with fear and in reverence to God (cons. Genesis 39:9b; 1 John. 2:15-17).  Though tender in age and strength, yet was like the young David before Goliath because of his trust and relationship with the God of his father (1 Samuel 17:22-25, 32-37).  He believed like a child and walked with God in innocency.  He fled sin as was instructed and believed that God was everywhere and watching as he had been taught.  He was neither crafty nor did he formulate excuses for his actions.  It was never difficult to admit to wrongs and errors done and to repent of them.  His peace with God and others abounded (Hebrews 12:14; Romans 5:1).  He sought and heeded to counsels (Proverbs 11:14).  At every opportunity, he renewed his covenant with God and kept his portion of the covenant (cons. Genesis 35:1-7).  This was the state of the youth before now, but what can be seen today?