"Conflict between Christian leaders is inevitable and painful. The question is, How will we handle it?"

“Some jobs naturally complement a person’s temperament. For others, their jobs frustrate them because their temperament and profession clash. Does something need to change? Do you need a new job? Different environment?”

“I am dead. American-style youth ministry has killed me. So I quit. I now feel alive again.”

Surveys show that most organizations want older youth workers—usually early- to mid-30s, married with families. Some churches even want 40-year-old youth pastors. Calling has little if anything to do with age—yet we often let age determine our calling. It may be time to reevaluate your ministry with...

Until we realize that our souls will wear out without refreshment from the Spirit of God, we have little chance of feeding others.

Of all the attitudes we need to possess as youth workers, maybe the one we need most is hope.

My addictions began at an early age. I've never accepted mediocrity. I've always wanted to be great at something. Before I became a Christian, it was tennis. In my teens I spent hours every day improving my forehand and backhand. Then my cravings for "more" led to drinking. Then to pot. Then to heavier...

In the course of the past four decades, youth ministry has become a legitimate, professional vocation. The stereotype of the immature youth worker who loves Jesus and seeks out kids until a senior pastorate opens up has faded away in America. Youth ministry is viewed largely as a calling, a mission,...

For reasons too many to name, I chose to make a statement as a rebellious 13-year-old that this rite of passage was stupid. Besides, I never planned to come back to Temple as an adult. I said to myself, "So what? I'll get some praise and a couple of presents." I observed my friends going full steam ahead,...