for teens:
Qualified Because Jesus lives in you
Terrance Raitcliff
Qualified Because Jesus Lives in You
Sometimes it feels like you’re not “ready enough” for what God wants you to do. Like you don’t know enough Bible verses, you mess up too much, or you’re just trying to survive public school without losing your mind. But Ephesians 4:14–15 says something powerful: God doesn’t want us tossed around by every opinion or trend. He wants us to grow up in Christ, speaking the truth in love, becoming more like Jesus Himself. That’s the qualification. Not perfection—Jesus.
Jesus qualifies you because He lives in you. When you gave your life to Him, He didn’t just forgive you; He started forming you. Philippians 1:6 says God finishes what He starts. So even when you feel weak, awkward, or unsure, God is still working. You don’t earn your calling—you walk it out.
That’s where the church matters. God gave us the 5-fold ministry. Not every church recognized apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, but they are there to help us grow and stay grounded (Ephesians 4:11–12). They’re not just “church people”; they’re gifts. They help you learn the truth, recognize God’s voice, and not fall for every lie TikTok or culture throws your way.
Parents matter too. Maybe we’ll be the generation that can keep “parents” plural. Even when they annoy you, even in church, or don’t “get it,” their prayers, boundaries, and encouragement are protection. It can feel as if they are overprotective, but I’m convinced they know the work of the enemy better than I. Proverbs 22:6 reminds us that what’s planted early doesn’t disappear. Let’s be intentional in honoring them for the glory of God. Jesus will qualify us to be the best teens we can be. Honoring parents is a part of God’s plan for you.
Sometimes it feels like you’re not “ready enough” for what God wants you to do. Like you don’t know enough Bible verses, you mess up too much, or you’re just trying to survive public school without losing your mind.
But Ephesians 4:14–15 says something powerful: God doesn’t want us tossed around by every opinion or trend. He wants us to grow up in Christ, speaking the truth in love, becoming more like Jesus Himself. That’s the qualification. Not perfection—Jesus. How much do you know about “walking by the Spirit” at school? It doesn’t mean that we should be loud or weird. It’s about the Holy Spirit working love, courage, and obedience within us when others are doing the opposite. No finger-pointing, just a reality check on our part as followers of Christ. Galatians 5:16 says when you walk by the Spirit, you won’t be controlled by the flesh. Be kind. Stand firm. Don’t compromise. Jesus already qualified you—now grow in Him and walk it out.
Have a great day at school.
Reflection questions
Where do you feel “not ready enough” right now, and how does knowing that Jesus qualifies you change how you see that situation?
Who has God placed in your life, church leaders, parents, or mentors, to help you grow, and how well are you listening to their guidance?
At school, what situations test your ability to walk by the Spirit instead of reacting in the flesh?
One challenge
This week, choose one moment at school to respond differently on purpose. Be kind when it is easier to be sarcastic. Be honest when lying would be simpler. Be respectful when others are not. At the end of the week, write down what changed in you.
Would you like to share your personal story from school on God’s impact on your life?