CMA HeartBeat July 2023 | Page 21

YOUTH MOVEMENT

YOUTH MOVEMENT

By BEN Larson

NOW that it is July , most students across America are diving into the summer . With the summer in front of you , you are thinking about what to do with your day and how to fill the time . Some of those things to occupy your days may be sleeping in , going to the beach or park , and spending more time with friends . All these things are great ways to fill your summer . When I was growing up , summer was always my favorite time of the year , as so much could be done !

I want to propose one more thing to consider for this summer . Since you have a lot of free time throughout the summer , now is the time to start or expand your Bible study time . If you are just beginning , you can start with five minutes of reading and prayer . Then , every week , add a couple of minutes to your study .
If you don ’ t have a Bible or want it in a convenient way , there are many apps that can be downloaded on your phone for you to use . I like to read from the NLT or NASB version as it is easy to read and understand .
As you read , if there is something you don ’ t understand , research to help you know what it means . If you still have questions , journal them and ask your pastor , parent , state leadership , or a chapter member .
An excellent place to start reading would be the beginning of the New Testament ; Matthew , Mark , Luke , John , and Acts . From there , you can keep reading wherever you ’ d like . The Bible App has many reading plans with verses followed by a devotional .
So , as you take on this challenge , take your time reading , and you will be surprised at what you learn . The Bible is full of adventure , drama , and life lessons . Start reading today and ask God to speak to you as you take the time to read and pray . CMA
Ben and Rachel Larson serve as CMA National Evangelist-Youth Movement .
On page 23 is a very exciting regional youth event called Accelerate in the Rocky Mountain Region !
This event , in Gunnison , Colorado , is open to students ages 12-17 , with opportunities for adults to help . If interested in attending , you can contact Cody & Candie Day at ccday7000 @ gmail . com or 719-431-0893 . 21⎪JULY 2023⎪www . cmausa . org