From the normal demands of ministry, to maintaining a family, to nourishing a growing walk with Christ, it's almost impossible for us "in the trenches" of youth ministry to find time for ourselves. In ministry, there are always things to be done and people to reach out to. However, I'm reminded of Jesus' words when He said, "You'll always have the sick with you..." There will always be opportunities for ministry. Jesus provided an excellent example of regularly "pulling away" with His disciples from the world of ministry.

I've titled this Youth Leader's Coach, "The Youth Pastor's Sabbath." We all know how hard it is to remove ourselves from our responsibilities, but it must be done. Our "tanks" soon become low if we're constantly meeting others' needs and rarely taking time to restore ourselves. May this message reassure you that it's not just okay, but necessary, to "pull away" from your ministry world to replenish yourself. You really do deserve it!

In the trenches,