Name: William Hill
Article: Yo Back That Thang Up
Author: Phil Jackson

One day I was just sitting back reading a Gospel Flava magazine like usual and I came across an unusually titled article, “YO BACK THAT THANG UP.” Now the first thing to cross my mind was “I know this article ain’t talking about some Christians up in the club.” So speculating about this odd title, I read on. It just so happened that his was a great title for this article. The article discussed the issue of Christians not being able to Back Up the true meaning of their faith. Now I know that First Christian Youth Ministry isn’t about that. Our faith lies in the true meanings of the church: fellowship, prayer, and the belief that Jesus is the true Son of the highest GOD. Now let me ask you, how do you know that your faith isn’t misplaced? Think about it, really. Just sit down and marinate on it. Do you have an answer? I do. How were you just now able to think? GOD. How could I know that? GOD. Therefore my faith can’t be misplaced because in truth, he is every thought and idea including you and your faith.

If I was doing a survey at school with the guys and the ladies, they would be able to back up things that they feel strongly about. For example, if I asked the guys who is the best basketball player in the NBA, I would get all kinds of different answers. Some would say Richardson because of his dunks, some would say McGrady because of his style, some would say Iverson because of his toughness, some would say Kobe because he reminds you of Jordan, and some would say Francis because of his skills, and some might say Shaq because of his strength. If I asked the ladies who was the best male singer out there, I would here answers like Usher, Mario, KC & Jo Jo, Joe, Ginuwine, Sisqo, or Tyrese. The point is everyone would have reasons to back up what they think.

If we are saved young people living for Christ, we should be able to Back Up our faith just like everyone else backs up things that mean something to them. A good start is the 23rd Psalm. Many people, especially youth, quote the 23rd Psalm not truly knowing what it means. But to be honest it was David who helped identify our substance of faith. Part of it says, “For his names sake.” This said, we aren’t here for us but for Him. Knowing all this, you can now Back Up your Faith, by having faith in the Lord and let him lead you through green pastures, beside still waters, and even the valley of death.

Scripture Reference: Psalm 23, Hebrews 11:1-6, James 1:2-3