The Challenges and Joys of Youth Ministry in Your Thirties
In the midst of this familiar struggle to be significant, we must remind ourselves of what God has called us to, letting the Spirit work out the truth in our lives.
In the midst of this familiar struggle to be significant, we must remind ourselves of what God has called us to, letting the Spirit work out the truth in our lives.
The twenties hit a sweet spot for connecting with students: we still have (most!) of the youthful energy we had as teenagers, yet, we also have walked with the Lord longer and can offer a bit more perspective beyond the high school years.
As a former youth pastor, I would constantly point students who were beginning to study the Word for themselves to the book of John. This gospel offers a clear connection to the Person of Jesus through the story of Jesus.
Volunteer leaders are not just warm bodies to make our lives easier; they are there to make an eternal deposit in the lives of teenagers with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
It is right for us to want our students to be cared for, regardless of the inconvenient timing and severity of their pain. Still, our goal should be to remove ourselves from any sort of hero position and instead point our students to the true Hero—Jesus.
God has plans for your ministry. The format of the plans likely differs from what you experienced back in February and expected back in April. Still, we can take heart that God is making all things new, regardless of the circumstances we encounter.
Several weeks ago, a woman in our church shared her testimony with the senior high group. It was one of the best talks I’ve ever heard at Sunday night youth group. Ironically, it was the first time this…
What story could be more captivating than the life, death, and resurrection of Christ?
Offering suggested biblical studies resources is one simple way we can contribute to the discipleship of students who are already growing in their passion for God’s Word.