It really is tougher to become a Christian as we get older because more is at stake as we age. Also, higher up the social ladder we are, also it’s harder to become a Christian, since again, more is at stake.

In that way, if you are young and poor, then be thankful because you are a prime candidate to become a Christian. While it is true that God can save anyone at any stage of life, it seems that He particularly works more effectively among the young and the poor. So be extremely thankful if you came to Christ while young. And be thankful if you are among the poor! Otherwise, you might not have come to Christ at all.

The Apostle Paul witnesses to a man named Felix, who was a governor, and he becomes convicted. But rather than receiving Christ, he sends Paul away, putting it off until more opportune time. But that time never comes. As far as we know, Felix never made it to heaven…

What is it that made him put it off? He probably thought there was too much to give up. After all, he was a Roman governor and Christianity was just a budding new religion. And his reputation and even his job was on the line for him to decide for Christ. So, he ends up not committing His life to Christ.

I sympathize with this man. I’m not envious of this man’s position at all. For if I were in the same boat, I would not have received Christ either. I’m thankful that I received Christ when I did (at age 17). It would’ve been more difficult later in life.

If you are a Christian be thankful for your past. Whether it was a happy one or not, God has positioned you so that you may receive Him. And He might have kept you poor for that reason!

PH