Fellow leaders, can I be honest? Growing your youth ministry is brutally challenging. We’ve all faced the cycles of failure and frustration. For me, the struggle was nearly insurmountable until the Gospel Advancing ministry strategy arrived and caused a drastic and undeniable change in me, and then in the lives of the students I get to lead.
I remember one specific moment of deep doubt. I asked God whether I should even continue following His demanding call. His response was immediate and profound, leading me straight to Scripture.
‘Be strong, all you people of the land,’ declares the Lord, ‘and work. For I am with you,’ declares the Lord Almighty. Haggai 2:4b
This promise is for all of us.
To every single one of you pouring your life out, I want to leave you with this assurance:
Your labor is not in vain.
Even when it’s challenging. Even when there are setbacks. Even when your role feels less like a joyful calling and more like a burdensome task, DO IT ANYWAY!
If you feel like nothing is shifting in the lives of the teens you’re leading, LEAD ANYWAY!
If you’re unsure how to intercede on behalf of your teens, and the answers you pray for aren’t visible, PRAY FOR THEM ANYWAY!
If planting the Word of God in students’ hearts feels exhausting and fruitless, PLANT IT ANYWAY!
Don’t let the lack of appreciation or recognition sideline you. Even if no one notices the sleepless nights, the exhausting labor, and the life you pour into the teens you serve, DON’T STOP! Why? Because Jesus is with you. Hold fast to the unwavering promise of God in Galatians:
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9
God bless all of you tireless youth leaders. Your passionate hard work and the unconditional love you show to the next generation are a powerful inspiration and example to the Kingdom. Keep going! Do it anyway!
Joseph Javier
Youth Leader from Philippines
