Home This is similar to the way you would do for a teacher or coach. Honor the spirituality of youth Appreciate and validate youth as persons of sacred worth with legitimate spiritual needs and responses. I do not wish to put anyone on a guilt They might feel closest to God and loved by Him when they read the Bible and talk with God about what they have read. prerequisites to challenging those over whom we have influence to consider (Joshua 1:67, 9). One minute, you can feel great about your impact on their lives, and the next theyre going out with the kid from the atheist club. They learn to serve with love and to perform the smallest details beautifully. This article first appeared in the October/November 2021 issue of Focus on the Family magazine as How Does Your Teen Feel Close to God? Scripture quotations are from the ESV Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version), copyright 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Before the cross: Tell what your life was like before you asked Jesus to save you. Secondly, you should serve God in your youth because God knows what is best for you. Youth come together to work on service projects, help the elderly with yard work, assist the needy, and donate their time to helping worthy causes. For further ideas, check out our Video Clips section on our Media Illustrations page. God showed up and acted. Far beyond boring Christian fiction, these books will thrill, entertain, and inspire your teen to grow in their walk with Jesus. The Fruit of the Spirit Devotionalis afreeseries of nine short videos to get you into Gods Word and inspire you to seek the Holy Spirits help in loving your spouse. Help prepare your children to respond to questions and criticisms of the Bible and to understand that the Bible is accurate, reliable and relevant. These words are well-intentioned, but can easily puff up rather than build up. sending church for a particular individual, etc. Colossians 3:5 (CSB) says, Therefore, put to death what belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desire, and greed, which is idolatry.. They are now providing an example for their non-believer friends to see. Lilly nervously admitted her anxiety about the future. Take steps to win their approval. The Five Best Ways to Engage Your Youth Group. (Col. 1:1517), This is an incredible plan! They help youth grow from children into adults, from dependents into those ready to live independently. Sign up for our email today and choose from one of our popular free downloads. When asking what can I do for God? what is the first thing that pops into your mind? Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave me alone. You can serve God in your youth by accepting Gods will for you even when you dont understand it. We are often good at teaching about God, helping young people understand more about our faith but how do we help them to develop this relationship with him, to learn what it means to worship? Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us, "For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.". This will mitigate your attempts at in-person encouragement. Yes, there will always be people who are 41 Powerful Bible Verses About Unity as Christians, 23 Sobering Bible Verses for Alcohol Addiction, 31 Inspiring Bible Verses for the Elderly, 8 Important Bible Veres About Forgiving Others Who Hurt You. Focus on the Family has created a free five-part video course called "Cherish Your Spouse" featuring best-selling author Gary Thomas. These particular verses really drive home the importance of kids serving God in their youth and how it impacts them in so many ways. Give your youth appropriate responsibility. And He took the children in His arms and blessed them. Gods calling in their lives. Read: Ecclesiastes 12:1 2. Service has always been an important part of the Church's youth program. Daily we work, clean, love, support, listen to, teach, and endlessly give of ourselves to the members of our family. Romans 12:11a: "not lagging behind in diligence.". We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. He also doesnt overlook or excuse sin, but confronts, forgives, and restores from the same love with which he affirms. The more time our youth spend surrounded by others who speak life into each other, the more that becomes the norm for their own speech. This can push people outside their comfort zones but when they do it, they are encouraged that God might actually speak through them. Like somehow God has a plan, but they have to figure it out, solve the mystery, put all the puzzle pieces together, or whatever metaphor theyve heard about how this seems to work for other people? God blessed Adam and Eve. All of our resources exist to guide you toward everlasting joy in Jesus Christ. Serving God in your youth does mean that even when trouble comes, God can bring something good out of it (something else I can personally attest to). Actually pray for them (don't just say you will) While it may feel encouraging to tell them you'll pray for them, it goes a lot farther if you actually do! 1 Timothy 4:12 says this, Dont let anyone despise your youth, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct,, in love, in faith, and in purity.. While it is important that kids go to church, just going isn't enough! I do believe, however, that far more young people ought And Gods desire isnt to trick anyone or lead us the wrong way or shame us for choosing badly. conversation. The more time kids spend surrounded by other Godly people, the less they'll stray from God's word. No foul language should come from your mouth, but only what is good for building up someone in need, so that it gives grace to those who hear.. Stay in ministry. Summer Soul Refresher: 7 Ways to Leave a Spiritual Legacy, 5 Answers from Billy Graham on End of Life, Death, Billy Grahams Answers on Making the Most of Life. Ask if it consistently tells the truth, even the hard truths; if it invites and inspires a rigorous and joyful obedience; if it strengthens hope in God and not in self. NEW 6-session curriculum available now! There are lots of different word games where you have to think of words which relate to a topic. A man who flatters his neighbor, says Proverbs 29:5, spreads a net for his feet. Or even more severely, A lying tongue hates its victims, and a flattering mouth works ruin (Proverbs 26:28). This means giving up the desires of our flesh (whether it be lust, greed, etc.) Share what you . Startchildren off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.. 2 days of "and the lord heard me - i have my answers" || nsppd || 6th july 2023 Thats pretty much all we needed from them. "Whoever serves, [let it be] as one who serves by the strength that God supplies in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.". Youre not alone, my precious friend. You can help your youth leaders remember the big picture by sharing the win with them when an alum of the ministry is doing well. He is the same today. What they will experience, however, is an increased responsiveness from those theyre ministering to. When you notice them struggling either for personal or ministry reasons. When they come home, we always Perhaps many of us fail to experience and extend encouragement because we dont yet know what encouragement is. Give a couple of questions for them to reflect on such as what would you ask God to do today if he was sitting opposite you? or what difference would you like to see God make in your school?. . Bible Study, Prayer, & Spiritual Growth Online. Why Should Teolology Matter to Christians? Words have the amazing power to either build some up or completely tear them down. Joy, Everlasting, Saviour etc. Heres the good news, by the way! I think it is important too to keep our worship as varied as possible, so that we inspire young people to worship God more and to worship in private on their own as well as corporately at church. amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "manual"; If your teens primary love language is words of affirmation, have him or her look up the following verses so they learn how to get closer to God: To show His love, God gives good gifts. lazy most pastors are, it is not likely that they will aspire to Gods work. Leaders can often mistake what we mean by worship for singing songs of worship together, and if we cant do that we dont bother with any worship. Abide in my love. b. sacrifice, their service, and their devotion. In other words, its a mistake to think that God only uses preachers or Bible teachers or missionaries (although we certainly should be thankful for them and uphold them in our prayers). But what does it mean to have faith? He also, however, told them the truth of all he would be for them through the darkness: I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. Heres how to help students explore Gods purpose without stressing them out. The fourth way you serve God in your youth is by showing faith! How could you? Matthew 20:28 And it matters for their own personal and spiritual growth. It is important because it puts Jesus at the centre of the meeting. Then encourage them to read the four Gospel accounts of the life of Christ: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The Lord is near to everyone who calls on Him in truth. and all things are held together in him. What does it mean to cherish your spouse? Great news -- we have the tools to help you do just that. I didn't grow up in the church. Winning Your Inner Battles is a free series of eight short videos featuring Levi Lusko. eyes as you talk about another missionary coming to the church, if they hear Yet, it is so easy to tense up, to get nervous, to get so concerned with wanting to say the right thing that you end up saying nothing at all. Ive often used this in youth services where you set up a wall with lining paper on and people are encouraged to write down things to thank God for or prayers they may have. Nature (I can personally attest to this!) A gentle smile, a kind word, an opportunity to visitGod can use these to assure them of His love. Just get them doing something! Before I get into that lets discuss why you should serve God. Teens get closer to God through their specific love languagesthose unique and fundamental ways they experience love. amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; If you want to read more about living in purity, be sure to check out Pure in Heart by Susan Rohrer. Its not about big, huge acts of service that everyone notices. There was a kid in our group who had some kind of developmental delay, and he did really socially awkward things. Share your time. And in the face of a bleak outlook, promising to be with them wherever they went, he called them to obey. We can love others by not boasting to or dishonoring others, putting ourselves above others, or getting angry at others. One week, get outside and go for a nature walk around your area. Gods plan is to be with you, and Jesus will be holding all things together the entire way.*. When Moses died, right as Israel was about to cross into the Promised Land, God appointed Joshua to lead the people against nations mightier and more fearsome than his own. Instead of fear, God gave us the gift of power, love and self-discipline. Because real encouragement fuels real obedience. Be bold and speak aloud what you see God doing through them. Ironically, flattery can deceive and ruin the flatterer by making even him believe himself loving. all things were created through him and for him. Did you know that lots of pastors feel a little guilty taking a vacation? This could be getting people to draw things that they are thankful for, or to take a Bible verse and to draw what it means to them. Spouses may come to a new marriage with emotional baggage. You can read my full affiliate disclosure here. And there are new in-laws added to the mix. Use art Getting creative is a great way to worship and connect with God. God wants to comfort, encourage, and strengthen people. While youth activities may still be held in the summertime, your youth leaders need a lull in the activity in order for them to be at their best when school starts again. Have your teen look up scriptures that demonstrate the ways God speaks your teens primary love language. Are you ready to combat your bad habits and win? Ten Keys to Reaching Youth (I Cor. Understand young persons as participants in ministry, not objects of ministry. First, ask God to make you an example of Christ's love to others. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left. This kind of encouragement is not merely about standing up to opposition or overcoming fears, but about trusting and obeying all that God says. There are some particularly where they take a worship song and put images to it. Many of us may be able to quickly call to mind a conversation, maybe even from the past week. If we are building with cheap materials (like being cool and looking the part), those things will be burned up. Its effect is not loving, but ruinous. Solicitation Disclosure Statement 9:22,23) Young people struggle with loneliness, feelings of worthlessness, relativistic confusions, anger, hurt, meaninglessness, indifference, and unmet needs. They do not yet possess the brain circuitry to understand cause and effect at some levels. Clark and Sharrie, along with many other quiet heroes in youth ministry, are building with costly stones and gold, and their impact will last into eternity. I'd love to hear of some ways that your youth are serving God either at church or in the community! When kids serve at church, they are doing God's work. February 11, 2022 Pocket Everyone needs to hear words of encouragement, hope, and peace from God's Word. Maybe, like Lilly, our teenagers have had well-intentioned people in their lives who teach about Gods plan in a way that ends up stressing them out. . Quality-time teens will not likely have that experience. God can also use you in the lives of others through your prayers. That can be exhausting. . Copyright 2020 Thrive Youth Ministries | Registered Charity Number 1145794 | Website by Edge House Solutions. Not knowing makes you feel out of it and different.. Isaiah 55:8-9 says, For my thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not my ways.' Now, it is true that there are those in Sign up for our email today and choose from one of our popular free downloads sent straight to your inbox. (Most youth leaders dont need more coffee mugs)Great times to do this: Word gets around. The word blessed means to verbally affirm. the work of God who do not seem to be worthy servants. For teenagers, growing closer to God depends on their personality, interests, and relationship with God. Hosted by Dr. Danny Huerta, in every 8 to 15 minute episode, youll hear parenting experts share Biblical truths, effective parenting techniques, and useful resources that will help you feel equipped as a mom or dad in todays culture. This is encouragement in a finer, more penetrating, more compelling form. Dont gossip or speak rudely about people you dont like. The third way you can serve God in your youth is by loving. They will most likely feel Gods love as they have their daily devotions and quiet time with God. When they come preach for us, I try my best to get a large offering for Ps. When you serve God in your youth, youre preparing yourself to live righteously as an adult as well. . Heaven. Thats why I try as far as I can to offer worship times which a teenager can replicate at home, day to day. Sing I am sure you can think of others. And so Jesus did. After God delivered Israel from Egyptian bondage, Pharaohs army gave chase as the Israelites made their escape. The flatterer uses other peoples insecurities to serve his own cravings for approval, for power and influence, and in some cases for financial gain or illicit sex. You can serve God by serving others; do something kind for someone without expecting anything in return. This article is in 1. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. Or asking yourself what you can do for God between school, homework, studying, work, sports, etc. God affirmed their worth and their dominion over creation. See Matthew 18 for a guide. Real encouragement says, Apart from him you can do nothing but he will be with you wherever you go.. Have you been wondering how to serve God in your youth? God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit have been at work since before time, and we can rest knowing Jesus holds everything togetherso that job isnt up to us! Serving at the . God tells us how loving and kind He is and how He longs to comfort us. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. If they dont feel Gods love as you or their siblings or kids in their youth group do, thats OK. God created your teen to love Him in a way that is unique to your teen. Teaching teens to find their stories in God's story, 5 ways to cultivate trust with teens in your youth ministry, The power of pause: Why youth pastors need retreats, Planning summer youth activities that nurture spiritual growth, Creating connection with young adults in your church, Instagram Feed for Fuller Youth Institute, YouTube Channel for Fuller Youth Institute, Logo Icon Only for Fuller Youth Institute. Were on a mission to change that. Hes the author of. Put your ear buds in for this Christian parenting podcast and get practical, faith-based inspiration through all stages of parenting. 2. All around youeven in your churchare people who are lonely or hurting, and God can use you to encourage them and let them know they are not alone. 8. I will have spent four years studying something only to scrap it and start all over. Paul taught that our ministry to others will be tested with fire. Gods first gifts were to Adam and Eve when He placed them in the garden and gave them an abundant source of food. While there are several examples of good stewardship and service to others in the Old Testament, Christ is the ultimate servant and should be viewed as the model for encouraging the congregation to participate in the community: Even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many. They will sometimes say, God touched me. This mindset will carry over into the time they have here on Earth and create a strong work ethic for them which is so important as they transition into adulthood. Just do it in as careful and respectful a way as possible, with direct communication with the youth leader or their superior. Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. As they read, have them look for ways that Jesus expressed love. Your relationship with God will help you to serve him through your thoughts and actions. When teens reflect on the life of Jesus, the Holy Spirit opens their heart to all the ways that God loves them. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. Prayer wall unintentionally stressing them outthe leaders and supportive adults who care about them and see such potential in them and cant help but share our excitement about what God could do through them. You don't know what possibilities the future holds for you or how each decision you make will impact those possibilities. 148:12, 13. God not only gives us instructions and examples of good encouragement in Scripture, but he also stoops down himself to show us how to encourage a human heart. There are lots of good quality video clips available online and on YouTube which you can use to help people worship. or rulers or authorities, Learning how to get closer to God is a lifelong journey. and even when they are old they will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:6 NIV. This means no talking back or arguing, no disobeying their rules, and even no rolling your eyes when you think their back is turned (because trust me, they always know). First, ask God to make you an example of Christs love to others. Serving God in your youth is about the small things you do each day to point others to God. And real obedience proves we live in the love of Christ. The Cross: Explain what you realized about your sin and need for Jesus, according to the Bible. But most importantly, as parents we can instill within our children the realization that they dont have to experience Gods love the same way others do. We want to help you do just that. Couples who cherish each other understand that God created everyone different, and as a result, they treasure the unique characteristics in their spouse. In fact, it might just be flattery in sheeps clothes. amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; 18 In the future, faithful young people will be counted among those who will survive into God's promised new world. To fill their callings as the Lord requires, missionaries must learn the principle of work. What can you do? As a person who wants to follow Jesus and live out Gods purpose in her life, she wants to figure out Gods best and what God wants.. ( Rev. Children, obey your parents in the Lord because this is right. Parents can create opportunities for their kids to serve and teach them to be aware of the people around them. Serving God in your youth does not guarantee you a life without trouble. Actually, I didn't start going to church until well into my 40's! Is your relationship with God something you fall back on in your time of need? God. I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. 9. Paul thanked God for the Christians in Corinth, although Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth (1 Corinthians 1:26). In fact, thousands of marriages with situations as complex and painful as yours have been transformed with the help of caring professionals who understand where you are right now. Your email address will not be published. But Im stressed because I dont know how Im supposed to do that.. Show them by your own example what true faith, authentic Christianity, and discipleship look like as empowered by the Holy Spirit. The Bible tells us to sing to the Lord a new song, sing to the Lord, all the earth (Psalm 96:1) and there is something special when we sing songs of worship together. Get your copy for today for FREE with a donation of any amount! With you. God is love, and the one who remains in love remains in God, and God remains in him.. Listen: You arent useless in Gods eyes! But there are Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go. Go the Extra Mile If you want your teenagers or the teens in your parish to really engage in the Mass, it begins with asking yourself this question, "How far am I willing to go for that to happen?" Are you willing to be a consistent example to your own kids of what it means to enter into worship? Serving God in your youth is loving others, having faith, and living in a way that is evidence of Gods goodness and mercy. There's a time for our children to be right . Being an altar server instructs children in order, care and poise.