“So we rebuilt the wall, and all the wall was joined together to half its height; for the people had a mind to work  (Neh. 4:6).

The apostle Paul used the Greek word metanoia, meaning “transformation of mind” to describe one goal of the Christian life (Rom. 12:2). Elsewhere in Paul’s writings, we find instructions for the church to be of one mind and one body (1 Cor. 12). When the Jews returned from Persia to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem and the temple, there was a kind of myopic mindset that was vital to the success. Without a spirit of cooperation and unity, the chances of success would have decreased considerably.

Nehemiah describes this unity with the simple phrase: “the people had a mind to work.”

Of course, anyone involved in youth ministry understands energy and creativity is vital to the endeavor. Ministry is work—no matter how one defines it—and having a mind to work is important when one is working with teenagers.

Youth ministry is difficult because the mind is not optional. Every youth leader knows intellectual acumen is necessary to interact with teenagers; as culture shifts and technological advances continue, the savvy youth leader will be all the more hard-pressed to keep up with the multitude of trends and activities in which teenagers are engaged. In short, one must stay abreast of these trends while also offering tried-and-true ministry.

Youth ministry is challenging because it involves a constant adaptation of generation, culture, interest and hope. In the church, youth leaders have much to offer when it comes to understanding change, growth and outreach to younger people. Today, youth leaders are not bringing up the rear, but leading the way. So…when it comes to ministry, make sure you sharpen your mind along with the heart. Read those books that can inform; watch those videos that can inspire; use those tools that can reach the younger generation. Your mind will impact your ministry in amazing ways. Use it well.