We want to continually move towards a student ministry OF students, not just TO them. As we create a movement rather than a program, we need to think beyond the school years. Let’s be honest. A lot of time in student ministry is spreading the seed and tilling the ground. We are spending a considerable amount of time planting seed and hoping to see one or two sprout in front of us. Our ultimate goal should be to help equip students to become leaders.
From the beginning of following Christ until the day we die, we are on a mission for God’s glory. Our ministries should be incubators of faith in our students lives that helps them see that we are raising the bar of expectation. We are not going to succumb to the low expectations of the culture around us and instead have reckless faith. But how do we do this practically in our ministries? What does it look like for students to step out and be the light of Christ to the darkness surrounding them. What does it look for a freshmen in college to be prepared to enter their campus on a mission instead of trying to find one.
As we spend time building relationships, teaching for transformation and more, we have to keep the big picture in mind. We are another voice into the lives of the students. Their families have the most influence on their lives. We have to remember that we are simply God’s messenger. The pressure is not on you to be all things at all times to all students. We need each other. We need to equip others. We need to rely on God’s strength. We need to avoid tying our worth into the outward numbers and size of our buildings.
See beyond the outward exterior of your life as a leader.
Are you influencing other people with the gospel?
Is there any space in your life where you and I are leading our spouses to love Jesus?
First we must set the example. If we want our students to be influencers, we need to be leading them to influence. It is a picture of naturally living your life and using all of your gifts, platforms and goals to influence other people with the love of Jesus Christ.
Second, remember that influence comes from imitation:
What you and I focus upon is what leads us. If we are imitating Jesus in our daily lives it will spill over into how we lead others.
Remember today what Jesus said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5
