Wisdom Of Youth - Modern Young Women Of Faith

Even at young ages, women can be inspirations to others. Three young Christian women in particular come to mind, each with a story that influences people of all ages.

Cassie Bernall was a seventeen-year-old student at Columbine High School in 1999 when two teenagers went on a shooting spree. Reportedly, one of the shooters accosted her and asked if she believed in God. She said yes, and she was shot and killed.

While the facts about the exact exchange of words have been disputed, Cassie’s Christianity has not. According to She Said Yes, a biography written by her mother, Cassie had dabbled in the occult and had a difficult relationship with her parents. But then she found support in the local church youth group and eventually trusted Christ. The book has inspired and comforted many young adults with similar teenage experiences and parents who deal with troubled teens.

Bethany Hamilton was a thirteen-year-old surfer with professional aspirations, but in 2003 a tiger shark bit off her arm. Instead of being bitter about this tragedy, she became even more determined to go pro . . . and she achieved her goal in 2007. Throughout her journey, she spoke of how her faith in God helped her. Her book, Soul Surfer, has inspired many other teenagers and injury survivors.

Emma Sleeth was fifteen when she wrote It’s Easy Being Green in 2008. The book for teens delivers the message that it’s their job to care for the earth. Now she travels the country speaking about creation care, a modern environmental movement that emphasizes taking care of the planet so you can live out Jesus’ commandment to love your neighbor—even if your neighbor is halfway around the world.

Sometimes it’s easy to overlook what young adults can teach us. Cassie, Bethany, and Emma are just a few examples of girls with inspirational faith. Look around at the young adults you know. Are there any whose faith inspires you? Encourage them by telling them so.

Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.

1 Timothy 4:12