By Oladipo Oluwatosin
Introduction
We live in a generation that values speed over process, fame over growth, and results over discipline. Youths are in a hurry—rushing to get rich, to be famous, to own cars and mansions, to be known and celebrated, all without first building the character, discipline, and wisdom necessary to sustain such glory. But there is a truth that must be shouted loud: “Shortcuts always cut life short.”
The Tragedy of Premature Glory
Many young people today want to "blow" before they grow. But anything that grows without a root will collapse under pressure. The desire to arrive too early is killing dreams, ministries, and even destinies.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.”
Case Study: Joseph
Received vision at 17 (Genesis 37). Was sold into slavery, thrown into prison, falsely accused. Waited 13 years before his dream came true at 30. Lived and ruled till 110 – A life of impact and relevance.
Joseph didn't rush the process. He endured betrayal, rejection, false accusations, and pain. But he stayed focused. Many young people today would have given up or looked for shortcuts.
What Is Nastiness?
Nastiness here refers to a rebellious, impatient, and defiant attitude—a lifestyle driven by haste, greed, and disregard for godly process. It's the mindset that says, "I must make it now, at all cost."
Symptoms of Nastiness:
Disrespecting parents, mentors, and elders
Seeking quick wealth through fraud, crime, and immorality
Mocking those who choose to grow slowly and righteously
Building platforms without a foundation
Proverbs 20:21 – “An inheritance may be gotten hastily at the beginning; but the end thereof shall not be blessed.”
The Price of Shortcuts
Many have taken shortcuts and ended up with:
Broken dreams, Jailed lives, Damaged reputation, Untimely death
Some ministers have become chaplains to criminals—mentoring yahoo boys, land grabbers, and armed robbers just to gain favor and money. The altar is defiled. The message is twisted.
1 Timothy 6:10 – “For the love of money is the root of all evil…”
Trends: A Dangerous Shift
Today, a 13-year-old wants to drive a Benz. A 15-year-old wants to live in a mansion. A 17-year-old wants to be a celebrity pastor.
These are not bad dreams—but they become dangerous when pursued outside of godly timing and principles. God is not against prosperity; He is against premature promotion without preparation.
Proverbs 14:12 – “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.”
The Voice of Mockers vs. The Voice of Destiny
Mockers will laugh at you when you choose to follow the right path. They’ll say you're too slow, too spiritual, too old-fashioned. But they don't know your destination.
Don’t measure your life by what you see on social media. Behind many flashy lifestyles are hidden struggles and borrowed glory.
Hebrews 12:2 – “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith…”
Why You Must Follow God’s Process
Builds character: Trials produce patience and maturity (James 1:2–4)
Develops discipline: You learn what not to do when you finally arrive
Prepares capacity: Glory without capacity leads to crash
Guarantees longevity: What God builds lasts
Psalm 37:7 – “Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him…”
The Role of Mentors and Fathers
Youth must submit to training and correction. Many great destinies have been lost because of rebellion. God sends mentors, spiritual fathers, and coaches to shape your path.
Proverbs 13:20 – “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.”
Practical Wisdom for the Youth
Delay gratification—You don’t need to have everything now
Develop your mind—Read, learn, grow
Submit to godly counsel
Work hard and stay disciplined
Be prayerful and patient
Isaiah 40:31 – “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength…”
The Reward of Waiting
True relevance, Divine promotion, Peace of mind, Generational impact and Eternal reward
Those who wait on God never wait in vain. He does not forget faithful seeds sown in secret.
Final Charge to Youth
Dear young man, young woman—Don’t cut your journey short because of pressure. Stay in the process. Learn. Grow. Serve. Be faithful in your little season. Ignore the noise and distractions. God is not slow—He’s strategic. If you follow His path, you’ll not only arrive—you’ll last.
Galatians 6:9 – “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”
Reflection Questions
1. What shortcuts am I tempted to take in life right now?
2. Who are the voices influencing my decisions—God’s or mockers?
3. Am I truly ready for what I’m praying and working for?
4. What steps can I take to grow instead of rush?
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