“Be merciful to me…for in You my soul takes refuge” (Ps. 57).
In Puerto Rico, along the shoreline of old San Juan stands two amazing fortresses. These forts were designed to protect and defend the shore from invaders. The walls are thick, and the towers are high. The forts stand as a reminder of another time when fears gave way to creating walls and security.
No doubt, being a youth leader has its share of fears, too. Often as leaders, we are not certain if we have the words, the spirit, the answers teens will need when they have questions about their fears. They wonder if there is a refuge from their troubles, or they wonder if God is big enough to meet disaster.
Psalm 57 is a remarkable reminder that our ministry is not protected and defended by our own efforts and strengths. Rather, God stands watch over our lives and relieves our fears. We can model this faith and pass it along to the teenagers in our charge. God, indeed, is a present help in every time of trouble.
Consider your ministry this week, and don’t be afraid to offer your youth group into God’s care. During prom, graduation, summer break, any time of celebration, the beginning of the school year—all these can prove to be trouble spots for teens. However, God is able to watch over them. Don’t feel—and don’t fear—that your ministry is built on the strength of your efforts. Rather, it is God who is the source of strength and is always near to those you love.
