Why go to Youth Group? I mean, everybody loves a good game of flashlight tag or the annual Ugly Sweater Christmas party, but beyond that, why go?
“My friends from school don’t go”
“I don’t know anyone there”
“I’m sure I’d feel totally out of place”
…any of those thoughts sound familiar? Youth Group is far more than a fun game or hanging out with your friends. And the good news is that God has a purpose for you in being there!
In Philippians 2:1-2 it says, “Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.”
Did you catch that part about joy? The God who formed the earth and created the universe finds joy in something that you do? And not only does He find joy in your obedience, He will bless you for it! I think we can all agree that life is not easy, and if you are a teen in today’s culture, you are undoubtedly facing some of the toughest obstacles that life can throw your way. But through your faith and obedience, God will generously bless. He will bless you with His presence, His love, His mercy and His grace. He will pour out His blessings like water on fire and strengthen you for every challenge you face in life.
This verse also reminds you that you were created with purpose. You were uniquely designed by God for a reason. He loves you beyond comprehension and His desire is to have a close, personal relationship with you as you learn to live out His will in your life.
Yes, Youth Group is a place to come, meet friends, have fun, and learn about God, but it’s far more… It’s a place for you to feel belonging, to love and be loved, to learn how to grow in Christ and allow Him to live out His life through you. It’s a place to be encouraged, strengthened, and equipped to handle the toughest obstacles that life throws your way. It is a place for you…whoever or wherever you are, God has purpose for you in Youth Group, and we would love to help you discover it!
Come join Hillside Community Youth Group on Wednesday nights at 6 PM. For more information, check out our web page or come visit us on Facebook!
This piece was a lifejacket that saved me from drowning.