The 4-H Club

As a young person growing up on the farm I became acquainted with several organizations that focus on personal development. Two of them were the Grange and the 4-H Club programs. Both of them provided opportunities for youth to be involved in leadership. With wholesome activities and programs young people were helped to become useful and effective citizens. The 4-H's of the 4-H Club emphasized the development of Head, Hands, Heart and Health.

God has his own 4-H Club. Through membership in it people of all ages can develop their lives in all the same areas through emphasis on four types of interaction with God's Word. In Psalm 119:9-16 God challenges us with his 4-H's. First we enjoy the cleansing that comes when we Heed God's word. The Psalmist says, "How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word." The Bible is our guiding manual for successful membership in the family of God. Then we are able to develop purity as we "Hide God's word in my heart, that I might not sin against You." Our responsibility to others is emphasized as we join with the Psalmist in saying, "With my lips I have declared all the judgments of Your mouth. We Herald God's Word so that others may be touched as well. Finally, we are enabled to maintain a healthy, spiritually focused mind as we give Honor to God's word when we "meditate on Your precepts and contemplate Your ways.

Those who join God's 4-H Club will find their lives changed internally and externally. When they heed, hide, herald and honor God's Word they are equipped for the greatest service of all to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. They are prepared to impact each person they meet and leave a mark for God on this world. If you haven't become a part of God's great family and a follower of his word, consider it today. Your entire future for the present life and eternity will be changed.