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   dealing with a student doesn't want to be a christian jim burns
how could I counsel a 17-year old in the youth group who says he has no desire at all to be a christian?
Here are some suggestions:
Remember and rest in the fact that God causes growth; not people.
Youth workers, in essence, are farmers - who intentionally plant
seeds. Yet,
it is up to God in his timing and wisdom to cause the growth. In
1 Corinthians 3:6-7 (NLT), Paul writes: "My job was to plant the
seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God, not we,
who made it grow. The ones who do the planting or watering aren't important,
but God is important because he is the one who makes the seed grow." God's
timing can be different than our timing and that can lead to frustration.
So, strive to be a good farmer - and be patient.
Don't try to force this young person to follow Christ, through lecture
or manipulation. This is not to say there isn't room for words. Be
clear in your words. Just don't be a "salesman" out to close a "deal." Instead,
love this young person. Be intentional about developing a relationship
with this student! Your love and compassion (really - God's love being
demonstrated through you!) preaches the Gospel in powerful ways. Even
if this student doesn't seem responsive to Christ, they will notice
your behavior to them - and that will speak volumes!
Lastly, pray! Your prayer on behalf of this student is important and
valuable! Never underestimate God's willingness to answer and pleasure
in answering His people's prayers!
http://www.simplyyouthministry.com/community-articles-jim-s-thoughts.html
jim burns
how could I counsel a 17-year old in the youth group who says he has no desire at all to be a christian?
Here are some suggestions:
Remember and rest in the fact that God causes growth; not people.
Youth workers, in essence, are farmers - who intentionally plant
seeds. Yet,
it is up to God in his timing and wisdom to cause the growth. In
1 Corinthians 3:6-7 (NLT), Paul writes: "My job was to plant the
seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God, not we,
who made it grow. The ones who do the planting or watering aren't important,
but God is important because he is the one who makes the seed grow." God's
timing can be different than our timing and that can lead to frustration.
So, strive to be a good farmer - and be patient.
Don't try to force this young person to follow Christ, through lecture
or manipulation. This is not to say there isn't room for words. Be
clear in your words. Just don't be a "salesman" out to close a "deal." Instead,
love this young person. Be intentional about developing a relationship
with this student! Your love and compassion (really - God's love being
demonstrated through you!) preaches the Gospel in powerful ways. Even
if this student doesn't seem responsive to Christ, they will notice
your behavior to them - and that will speak volumes!
Lastly, pray! Your prayer on behalf of this student is important and
valuable! Never underestimate God's willingness to answer and pleasure
in answering His people's prayers! |
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