Youth ministry is not always easy. Which is why I want to take a moment to applaud you, because I know many of you have a great structure in place of youth ministry resources, events, programs, and relationships that and are doing a great job of reaching students for Christ. Plus, in the grand scheme of things, not many people are actively working towards reaching the students of this generation for Christ and so I thank you for your continued faithfulness in being a part of that work. I just wanted to take a second to share this encouragement with you because not only do you deserve it, but I also know that in ministry encouragement does not come near often enough. But even though we are doing well, we can always do better.
I know you already understand this probably, as you are taking the time to go out and search for more resources and learn more about ministry. But it is important to remind ourselves of this from time to time, so that we remember that even though we might be heading in the right direction we can always improve. This is is a good habit to be in because it keeps us humble, and it reminds us that God is not through with us yet. This then in turn sets a good example for our students and leaders as they realize the same is true in their own lives.
So here is what I want to challenge you to do. I want you to look for one to three areas in your own life or ministry where you can improve. Then as you look to implement those changes and lead out as an example, challenge your leaders and students to do the same. Now as you do this remember to do it with the same attitude that I have. The attitude that says, "It is not that we are doing a bad job it is just that we can always get better."
Please know I am doing this as well. I already know that I need to get more organized because I keep forgetting to do things that I told people I would and I know it makes them feel less valued. I also am working on working less, because I know God has called me to rest and this is something that I really struggle with because I feel like if I am not working I am wasting time or that things might not get done. And I need to realize that this actually boils down to an issue I have with letting go and trusting God.
Your weaknesses may be the same, they may be different, but either way I know we all have them. So take a few moments to identify them today, pray through them, formulate a plan, and then work that plan. Your ministry, your family, and your life will be much better if you do.
I know you already understand this probably, as you are taking the time to go out and search for more resources and learn more about ministry. But it is important to remind ourselves of this from time to time, so that we remember that even though we might be heading in the right direction we can always improve. This is is a good habit to be in because it keeps us humble, and it reminds us that God is not through with us yet. This then in turn sets a good example for our students and leaders as they realize the same is true in their own lives.
So here is what I want to challenge you to do. I want you to look for one to three areas in your own life or ministry where you can improve. Then as you look to implement those changes and lead out as an example, challenge your leaders and students to do the same. Now as you do this remember to do it with the same attitude that I have. The attitude that says, "It is not that we are doing a bad job it is just that we can always get better."
Please know I am doing this as well. I already know that I need to get more organized because I keep forgetting to do things that I told people I would and I know it makes them feel less valued. I also am working on working less, because I know God has called me to rest and this is something that I really struggle with because I feel like if I am not working I am wasting time or that things might not get done. And I need to realize that this actually boils down to an issue I have with letting go and trusting God.
Your weaknesses may be the same, they may be different, but either way I know we all have them. So take a few moments to identify them today, pray through them, formulate a plan, and then work that plan. Your ministry, your family, and your life will be much better if you do.
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