Time Out (by Jerry Schmoyer)
Those in youth ministry are well aware that we are being constantly observed by others. It’s only natural to want to be seen in a positive way. It’s easy to wonder what the Senior Pastor thinks, or the board, or parents, or teens, or even fellow youth leaders. The temptation is to do whatever we can to get a positive response from these audiences. I’m not saying this is always wrong, as long as we remember that we really play to an audience of One. There is only One whose approval matters and it is easy to forget that He, too, is watching. Getting His, “Well done, good and faithful servant” will mean more than any praise we may get on this earth. There’s nothing wrong with being liked and appreciated in ministry. Just don’t let it become an idol — you know what God thinks of idols! He alone is the audience we must play to.

Scripture
1 Corinthians 10:32, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

Colossians 3:17, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”

Reflect

• What other audience “competes” with God for your attention?
• Have you made your popularity and “success” an idol that comes before pleasing God?
• Is there anything you need to change in your life to more fully please God as He watches you?
• Remember, not only does God watch you, but He’s your biggest fan! Thank Him for that.

Jerry Schmoyer has been a minister in Pennsylvania for over 25 years and has worked with teenagers for 14 years now, ever since I became one myself. He authors the weekly Time Out series here at Life in Student Ministry in hopes to spiritually refresh your soul as you continually pour so much of yourself into students. God bless!