The Box

Today’s challenge – get rid of the box.  What do I mean?  I am referring to the box that says to have a successful, thriving youth ministry you must do it this way or that way.  The box that produces the same ideas year after year because back in the 90’s it worked for some youth group.  The box that keeps us from stepping out and trying something completely radical because it’s never been done before. 

You might be clutching to the box because of a couple different reasons.  One, it could be fear of failure that could be keeping you in the box.  There may be an idea that continues to stir in your heart.  You keep telling yourself that idea was meant for your younger, more energetic, and daring self ten years ago, but really the Lord is giving you a revolutionary idea to do youth ministry for your specific church.  Second, maybe you are the person that feels completely overwhelmed with the current tasks at hand, and when you begin to think about giving a makeover to your “Year at a Glance” with new events, sermon series ideas, and conferences - that overwhelming sensation comes on.  Instead, you look at the events you did last year and give it a slightly different name or offer a minor variation so your students don’t have complete déjà vu.

I have good news for you!  God’s best it not for you to live in the box of youth ministry.  Those ideas that continue to stir in your heart, though they may seem completely unattainable to achieve, are from the Him!  And if He gives you an idea, He also gives you the grace to do it!  Lean on His wisdom as you step out into the unknown with your radical idea.  It is ultimately His idea – and He’s got your back.  And if exhaustion is keeping you in the box, I’ve got good news for you too!  His Word clearly states His grace is sufficient for you and the joy of the Lord is your strength!  Take hold of His grace during this season and ask the Holy Spirit for fresh, witty ideas.  The Creator is the ultimate creative One.


Ruth