I think there is a common pitfall for those of us in youth ministry, and it’s addressed in a passage of Scripture that you might not commonly think about. Psalm 33:1-4 says: “Sing joyfully to the Lord, you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise him.…
I want to be a better youth leader one year from now than I am today. Do I hear an “Amen” or a groan from you right now? Probably both. But if you’re like me, you feel a little overwhelmed. You already know ways you want to improve yourself and your youth ministry.…
For many years, I have had this feeling that I would be involved in some type of mission work, something more than just the occasional week-long trip with a church group. When I would attend conferences and they would ask those who are considering going into missions to stand up, I would stand.…
I cried during The Celebrity Apprentice finale the other night. I’m not sure if it was because I was finishing up a message for our high school ministry called “One Month to Live” or if it was because I had just finished tucking the kids in bed, but either way, it hit me hard.…
In an effort to find seldom-fished waters, a couple of friends and I headed out on a rustic trail alongside a wild Northwest river. Eventually the trail diverted from the river, and as we kept hiking the trail diverted from us as well.…
Q & A With Doug Fields Editor’s Note: For a decade Dan Webster led the largest youth ministry in the U.S. 1 — right up to the moment the wind in his sails suddenly died, right along with his heart for ministry.…
Two years ago, I transitioned to a new ministry position. With the job change came a range of emotions—from excitement and enthusiasm to feeling overwhelmed. One day I would be enjoying the honeymoon, and the next day I would be wondering if God made His first mistake in history by leading me here.…
Did you know that you are preserved for a purpose? What does purpose mean? To intend or plan The object for which something exists or is done. What does being preserved mean? To protect from harm & damage To keep from spoiling To prepare for future use Ps.…
Who isn’t busy these days? Okay, maybe some monk in Tibet—but he’s probably just in denial. For most of us, the list of to do’s in ministry seems endless. There are retreats to be planned, students to meet with, Bible Studies to be prepared, and answers to be given as to why the window got broken last Wednesday night, etc.…
“Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh. Blessed are you when men hate you, when they exclude you and insult you and reject your name as evil, because of the Son of Man.…
