Why is it so hard?

[ChristInAction]

speaking from the youth side that knows everyone in our youth & how they feel about it all.
We are very greatful for all the leaders do it our corps (church) but we dont ever show it. Most of the youth in of our church wouldnt be in the church if we didnt have youth group & the great leaders.
Keep it up. they might not seem thankful. but when they start getting really passionate & speaking God's msg you'll get your thanks in how far they came.

 

[asianchexmix]

Thats ministry. I didn't read the other posts but maybe this would help you out. You are planting seeds in their lives. For the longest time, I saw people who didn't grow and whatnot. Patience is key. It is so hard since a) we live in an instant society and b) we want whats best for them. Also, remember to be a friend/brother AND teacher. You need both. Teacher shows right and wrong. Unless they can trust you, they won't follow. Just a few reminders. Also, read "My First Two Years of Youth Ministry" by Doug Fields...it really does help. I love reading that book. It literally is like having a lunch with Doug Fields. Hope this helps and keep on fighting through. One day, they will realize everything. We didn't realize everything in an instant but when we grew we started to see. Give them time. God bless!

 

[Naomi4Christ]

The key to youth work is to focus on building relationships with the young people rather than trying to teach them about the bible.

This means taking the time to get to know everyone as individuals and valuing what they have to say.

The bible is important but it is a tool to get to know the young people.

 

[JoeV]

Like some other people said, you are planting seeds. I participate in online debates against atheists, agnostics, etc, and sometimes it seems pointless because I'm not changing their minds one bit. But I do believe that I am planting seeds, and that's one of the reasons why I debate them. Maybe, just maybe, they might be able to make sense of it all someday and come to find the Lord Jesus!

 

[fireman1173005]

I think alot of it is just kids and youth today.

 

[ebedadonai]

I think alot of it is just kids and youth today.

Nah, I gotta disagree. After I became a youth leader, I had to go hunt down my former youth leaders and tell them how much I appreciated them, because I never said it then. Too immature? maybe. Freaked out by saying thanks? probably.

But more importantly, this is a reminder to thank those who minister to us now...worship leaders, pastors, etc. They need to hear they're appreciated.

 

[TexasStudentPastor]

It's a hard Job with very few thankyou's ever. Your satification has to come from the Lord.