Faith & Ministry
Regardless of how you got into youth ministry, I think there is one thing you and I have in common. We began in ministry because we love Jesus. In your life, you've had some encounter, experience, or insight that made it clear to you that Jesus will always be the G.O.A.T. (Does anyone say G.O.A.T.?)... Continue Reading →
You may be your ministry's worst enemy. A few weeks ago, in part one, we discussed one way you may be hurting your ministry. Today we are going to explore another way that you may cause harm. You may be your ministry's own worst enemy by failing to invest in your personal development. I think... Continue Reading →
You know that you need a team of leaders. To get this team, you will have to recruit people. It is probably not too far of a stretch to think that you want your team to be a strong team. So you need a team, and you want quality leaders. I wonder, though, have you... Continue Reading →
Your fall semester is about to begin, and you spend hours prepping for a massive back to school bash. You rent the tallest rock wall, knockerball, and inflatables. You purchase expensive prizes and enough food to feed three high schools. The band is ready, and you book an engaging speaker. After all, you want to... Continue Reading →
Parents. You can't avoid the fact that they exist. You went into youth ministry because you wanted to change the lives of teenagers, but you've been handed more than you expected. The younger, less experienced version of yourself probably didn't realize that loving teenagers also meant loving parents. The younger, less experienced version of yourself... Continue Reading →
You could possibly be the worst enemy of your youth ministry, volunteer team, and students. As leaders, this is never something you dream to be, but it does happen. Certainly, at times you might beat yourself up when you've made a mistake, but it isn't the norm. At least I hope not! I'm talking about... Continue Reading →
Last week we began by recognizing that the culture of a student ministry can determine its future trajectory, the group's influence on the community, and gives people a taste of Jesus. Also, we discussed the importance of creating a Ministry Culture document and how it will help you learn about your group's current dynamics. (Click... Continue Reading →
Beyond the work of God through His grace, the culture of a youth group may be one of the most crucial factors in determining a group's trajectory and impact. An exclusive culture will quickly hinder your ability to be God's prevenient grace to those distant from God. An attitude such as this will describe God... Continue Reading →
With a crackle of the speaker, you hear the words, "may I take your order." Suddenly, your mind goes blank. Have you ever experienced a momentarily lapse in memory? You knew your spouse's lunch order, and then amnesia strikes. Have you experienced this before? As a leader, have you had this moment when leading? I... Continue Reading →
Brian M. Lawson 