The Power of Friends in Youth Ministry

Friends in youth ministry are sometimes seen as something “extra” or not vital. After serving a lot of years in youth ministry, I'm here to tell you that they're not only a joy but a necessity.

I just got back from a few days with some special youth ministry friends. These friends were not old buddies from years back but they were brand new pals that share the same vision of seeing solid and strong youth ministry replicated all over our world. There were guys and gals from all over our country but also from other countries. Coming away from this time refreshed and excited, I began to think of how iron sharpens iron. I've been forced to work in the woods with my dad and brother cutting down trees and clearing brush. The job is immensely harder when you are working with a dull axe or a dull chainsaw blade. Just like youth ministry is harder when you don’t sharpen yourself regularly. Here are a few benefits for getting together with other people who serve God by serving youth.

Shelter—Sometimes we need someone to help us through the storm. We know that God will be THE shelter but having someone who understands and will listen inside the shelter is so important. If you are struggling in your calling or need someone to understand what you are going through, it's difficult to explain the uniqueness of youth ministry to an outsider.

Challenge—Think you have it figured out? Think again. Everyone can get better in youth ministry. I don’t care how long you've been doing it or how big your group is. Having a friend in youth ministry that challenges your thinking, practices, programs and walk will improve your youth ministry. If everyone is bragging on you and your program, then get some new friends. Try to make friends with someone in a different denomination. Their thoughts and ideas will challenge you and probably improve your ministry.

Encouragement—We all need encouragement. A youth minister friend will be a great source of help. They understand. If nothing else, their problems might make your situation seem better. So get out there and discover the Power of Friends in Youth Ministry. All it takes is a phone call…