In a popular parable, two woodcutters engage in a race to see who can fell the most trees in a single day. As the race begins, the first woodsman works harder and harder all day to chop down trees. The second seems to fall behind, as every hour he stops to sharpen his axe. However, as the day ends, it is the second who emerges victorious.

A lesson on working smarter, not just harder, the parable also reminds us that in campus ministry, we need to take time to hone our skills. Whether you are a first-year intern or a 25-year campus ministry veteran, you need to invest first and foremost in your relationship with Christ, as well as your ministry enrichment and development. Here are a few suggestions for keeping your axe sharp.

Develop a Vibrant Walk with God: The Lord’s work always depends on the Holy Spirit. Even when we teach multiple times a week, we need to take time regularly to spend time with our heavenly Father in prayer and worship. We need to drink deeply from the well of Scripture outside of our talk preparation, and we need to engage in an active community of believers. Jesus modeled this through times of solitude and a regular habit of gathering with the synagogue in His earthly ministry.

Seek Mentors: We all spend lots of time with students, staff and interns; but we all need godly men and women who have taken the journey of life—and life with God—further than we have. One of my mentors is a friend in his 80s. We drink coffee and talk. His life exudes Christ, and I learn from his example. Mentors are important in ministry and in living a life of faithfulness. Seek out someone who has lived faithfully for decades and spend some time together so his or her life can press against yours.

Access Resources: Many exist, but finding the right ones for our particular work can be challenging. Here are three categories of resources I rely on.
• Books: Reading time can be a luxury, but books are a vital resource for cultivating our personal walk with God and our ministry skills. Looking for some good ideas? I recommend the blog by Byron Borger at Hearts and Minds Books. From classics to the newest titles, Byron continues to add to my list of good books to read.

• Youth Ministry Resources: Don’t think just games, skits and Bible study lessons; rather think of this area as research for tomorrow’s students. High school sophomores are three years away from your ministry. Let’s not assume they will arrive on campus at 18 with prior context. Get connected with transition initiatives; peruse the resource section of YWJ and YouthWorker.com, especially items related to trends, issues and expectations.

• Campus Ministry Resources: In the last three years a number of new books about college students and ministry to them have emerged. Blogs make a great resource for new ideas and dialogue, and never forget the power of networking. Spend time with other campus ministers in person and online. We have a lot of wisdom. Need some specific ideas? Visit the campus ministry resource page at IvyJungle.org/campus-ministry-resource-links.