10 Commandents to excel in youth ministry

I asked myself recently why I involve myself in mentoring youths in church. It's been a good 13 years since I first started as a rookie cell leader in Sec 3, trying to inspire others towards living passionately for Christ. The pay is non-existent, the hours are long, our weekends are their weekends and after a while, you kind of wonder why you bother to put yourself through the hurt, disappointment and discouragement when nobody seems to appreciate what you are doing. Parents expect you to perform miracles with their children, your youth expect you to make it worth their while or they will be too bored to turn up. No one seems to care that you have put in so much time and effort to get things together. The list goes on! So why bother?

Reflecting over my life these past 15 years in FCBC's youth ministry, I realise that I bother because I cannot NOT bother. I am who I am today, because there were people who believed in me and bothered to make time for me, even when I didn't want it. They invested time and energy in me, not knowing what would come out of it, but holding on to the truth that God has a destiny for my life and they took joy in guiding me towards the right path. I have been a recepient of such love and grace and that inspires me to want to be there for others too. ... [+]

Still, over the years, I have seen many youth leaders come and go. Some left because they were burnt out, some left because they were disillusioned, some just left. Yes, the journey of leading a youth ministry is not an easy one and it has certainly claimed its casualties. The challenges are real and it is hard work! But imagine if Jesus thought it was too much work to save us and decided to go for a long holiday instead! I recently came across this article written by Tim Schmoyer where he shared some great principles on how to not just last the journey in youth ministry, but to excel in it! I've included just the 10 main points, but you should read the full version at Tim's website here. May all you leaders be encouraged and refreshed!

1. Thou shalt pray daily.

2. Thou shalt regularly meditate on my Word.

3. Thou shalt always publicly respect and support your church’s leadership.

4. Thou shalt get to know parents.

5. Thou shalt invest into students lives on an individual basis.

6. Thou shalt evaluate criticism said privately in love.

7. Thou shalt communicate as often as possible.

8. Thou shalt be flexible.

9. Thou shalt not be a solo act.

10. Thou shalt be thineself.

Joshua Teo