“Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (
Many years ago when I was a fledgling youth leader, an older pastor passed along this tidbit of wisdom. “Create an encouragement file,” he told me. “Save those thank-you cards, the hopeful letters, the favorable reviews; and when you encounter discouraging times, take out your encouragement file and read.”
This is one of the best pieces of advice I have ever received from a seasoned ministry veteran. I’m glad I created my encouragement file. You will be, too.
Youth ministry, after all, can be discouraging. There are difficult teenagers and more difficult parents. Sometimes, there are harsh criticisms from the pastor or the church board. There are times when a youth leader spends enormous hours organizing an event, only to see a handful of disinterested participants. Yes, it is easy for a youth leader to become discouraged, cynical or apathetic.
However, a youth leader never should forget ministry to teenagers is a life-changing work. Ministry is not easy. That is why the apostle Paul wrote his encouraging words from prison. “Think about the uplifting things,” the apostle is saying. Which reminds us that unless we are intentional, we may be swallowed up in negativity, anger or dejection.
Every youth leader will have those downer experiences; and these can seem to accumulate, even if they are not so numerous. In fact, it often takes a number of positive comments to alleviate the pain we feel from one negative comment. Criticism can weigh heavily upon us.
An encouragement file can be an enormous blessing in those dark moments. The positive comments we have received, the good words, the nice letters of commendation—these can serve to lift us up. We need such words.
Ministry is difficult enough without the burden of negativity. To that end, we need to create an atmosphere of encouragement. Scripture attests to this need, and we each can work to help ourselves by remembering the lovely, admirable and praiseworthy. Think about these things today! Who are the people who have praised you? Where are you finding energy and support for your ministry?
Don’t forget: You have impacted many families in a positive way. You are Christ’s representative, and you are often the source of encouragement to teenagers. As you think about these things…feel the lift! If you don’t have that encouragement file, start creating it today.
