As a minister to youth I often find myself discouraged by their choices and by the wavering of their commitment to a Christ-like lifestyle. I then proceed to beat myself up over their actions and choices (I know it’s not healthy) and wonder what I can do to help steer them back to the right path. There is a lot wrong with those statements, but I think the correct answer can be summed up in a thought that God gave to me yesterday while I was preparing for our high school mid-week on Tuesday.
My job is not to convict the youth, but to paint a picture of Jesus Christ and allow the Holy Spirit to do its work.
‘Nuff said.
March 29, 2008 at 5:43 pm
I totally understand you there. There’s got to be something different we can do, right? I’m reading through a book by Howard Hendricks and here’s a quote from the book. It applies rather well.
“We overload the circuits with knowledge, and fail to teach people that when God reveals himself to you, you are responsible. The ball is in your court.”
I wish I could rest like the ball was in their court.
Thanks for the thought!
March 29, 2008 at 7:28 pm
Craig, thanx for sharing,I often get the same feelings. The scripture that supports what you said is: 1 Cor.3:6 ” I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. ” Our job is to plant.
In Christ; Tina
March 31, 2008 at 11:24 am
My Job « less of me
Ever been frustrated with kids’ wavering commitment to a Christ-like lifestyle? Craig’s perspective is absolutely correct.