By Rachel Shively, Director, 4.12 Leadership Training Program
At the end of the summer, several older female 4.12 students and I gathered together to reflect on how we wanted to continue finding ways to develop intimacy with Christ. They shared around the circle forms of accountability they were pursuing – schedule changes and ways to prioritize time in Scripture daily.
Learning these lessons are never easy. The temptation for many high school students (and adults!) is to live a hectic and draining schedule that leaves them burned out, overwhelmed, and spiritually dry. Even for students in the 4.12 program, the temptation is no different. One student shared, “I am tired of feeling overwhelmed.”
A book that I went through with these girls was by Charles Swindoll called “Intimacy with the Almighty.” This book focuses on the value of making time for God and His word through specific spiritual disciples.
Despite the chaos they are seeing in the world, it was encouraging to see them commit to simplicity, silence, solitude, and surrender.
Please continue to pray for the 4.12 students as the school year goes on and that God’s word continues to renew their hearts and minds (Romans 12:1-2).
