Why You Shouldn’t Quit

Written by Jay Reynolds

“What are you doing?”

I asked myself that a billion times in the first week of being in ministry.

That first week, month, year was tough. I felt the balance of having NO clue what I was doing and trying to work as hard as possible in making something happen. There were times I felt tired, alone, frustrated, exhausted, and just plain wore out. Yet, when students were around I had to be energetic and passionate. Does that ring a bell to anyone?

I say all that to say… Keep Going! If you truly fill the conviction of being in middle school ministry, STAY THE COURSE.

It would be so easy to just give up, quit, and move along. But God called you to this thing, right? Anytime I sit down and read my bible, it is full of guys who did the easy thing (sarcasm). Step back and look at a guy named Paul, I’m sure he had the posh life! He started out as the guy blaming Christians and morphed into the guy making Christians. Talk about a tough road. Continually Paul says to stay the course. Keep running the race. Don’t give up and keep going.

It is SO easy to feel defeated. Then take in account we work in Middle School Ministry, the most foundational and awkward ministry in the church. Students are learning to own their faith, as well as make other decisions. We see them screw up and we see them come to know God. It is fruitful and disappointing all at the same time.

It’s no wonder why Paul was always encouraging others to keep to their faith, to set an example and live it out. You have an opportunity to do that. Teach the students that you have to follow God. Love them and care for them. Make disciples.

‘Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Hebrews 12:1-3

I don’t know you, but I’m convinced God has you right where He wants you. When the road seems dry and long, take a breather. When the going gets tough, take your eyes off yourself and point them towards Jesus. It is refreshing. Take care of yourself.

Plan to stay in ministry for awhile. God can use YOU to do amazing things if you stick in there. Will you allow Him to use you to make it happen? Keep going. Press on. Be encouraged, and remember Exodus 15:2-3.