Leading Through FatigueSample

Remember Why You Started

Why did you start leading in youth ministry? Do you remember? 

Spiritual and emotional exhaustion can sometimes cloud our memory, and all we can see in the moment is our own weariness. But take a moment and think: Why did you decide to minister and witness to youth in the first place? Was it because you wish you had someone to look up to and confide in when you were a teenager? Did you see a need and feel God tugging on your heart to bridge the gap? Maybe your youth group was where your own relationship and walk with God started. Whatever your reason was, God brought you into youth ministry for a purpose.

You didn’t choose me, I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using My name.

You might not see it right now, but you are impacting the next generation of leaders. In fact, inside Elevation YTH, we believe you’re impacting the NOW generation of leaders! Did you know most people make a decision about Christ before they turn 18? You’re pouring into teenagers at a pivotal time in their life. They see you showing up for them every week, and whether they say it or not, it’s appreciated. They sense how God is using you in their own lives, even if they don’t fully understand it just yet. 

It feels really discouraging to be in a season of exhaustion, but you aren’t alone in that. As we close out this plan, we want to encourage you to rest your mind, body, and spirit. Be honest with God about what’s going on and what’s frustrating you or weighing you down. Seek out another leader or mentor for prayer and encouragement. Remind yourself why you took that step of faith to lead those teenagers in the first place. Take time to really rest and catch your breath. Let God give you relief and refresh your spirit so you can lead with a fresh perspective. 

You’ve got this, and God’s got you. 

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.