No matter your age — young or old — perhaps calling oneself a Christian should have a peculiarity, a difference, a higher standard attached to it?  Perhaps living sexually pure, sober or what used to be called ”holy” lives is not so much about the culture but about individuals who represent the living, loving God? What if the reason our young generation doesn’t espouse to higher standards is because few Christian parents and leaders have the courage or conviction to live those “less popular, less fun” lives in front of them?

As in any culture, holiness cannot remain vague. It must have a shape and form that can be followed — it cannot be simply a religious concept.  In our society, (1) choosing sobriety or (2) speaking out about the biblical reasons to abstain from sex outside of marriage, and (3) staying married to one person and not divorcing or having affairs are uncommon, representing higher standards than our culture permits. 

Imagine the effect such choices could have on our youth, though. When you and I honor God with our smallest daily or grandest lifestyle choices by modeling a life of holiness that differs from our culture (based on unchanging biblical principles) we will be respected by some -- and repelled by many.   

What this young generation needs is adults and parents who love God, love each other and will risk repelling some in a desire to leave a holy legacy.  Are you in?

Becky Tirabassi (pictured with son, Jake) has motivated hundreds of thousands of men, women and students over the last 20 years to change their lives through best-selling books, extensive media appearances, and sold-out speaking events. She currently speaks to adults on prayer and balanced living, and has returned to college ministry and speaking to students across America on topics such as self-image, sex, addictions, and healthy relationships. Her best-selling books on prayer include: Let Prayer Change Your Life, My Partner Prayer Notebook, and Sacred Obsession. She has been a guest on numerous television and radio shows including the CBS Early Show and Focus on the Family, Enjoying Everyday Living with Joyce Meyer and James Robison’s Life Today. Her upcoming book, Emails to My Daughter is her first fiction book, and will be released in June 2008. Becky is the founder of Becky Tirabassi Change Your Life® Inc., a multi-media corporation and Burning Hearts, Inc., a non-profit student organization. Visit her at: www.changeyourlifedaily.com.