Equipped 2026: Youth: Panel Discussion: "Youth Panel Discussion: Questions and Insights for Youth" by Jerry Elder, Justin Rogers, Tim Lewis

Young people today face an unprecedented crisis of busyness and digital overload, with anxiety levels soaring due to constant connectivity and social media's design to induce inner chaos. The panel of church leaders warns that the attention economy—where platforms profit from holding our focus—has eroded peace, self-worth, and mental health, especially as teens are now exposed to online bullying 24/7. Yet amid this struggle, there is hope: a generation deeply committed to service, truth-seeking, and inclusivity is emerging. They’re not just attending church—they’re going out to serve, building relationships across differences, and showing a hunger for authentic spiritual growth. The key to navigating this tension? Intentionality. The panel urges youth to 'feed' on Scripture rather than rush through it, to guard their hearts and innocence, and to build deep relationships with older mentors. Most powerfully, they emphasize that no one is too far gone—God’s grace is always available, and staying close to Him is the ultimate defense against temptation.