Here are 10 ways to live a life of joy. Both for yourself and your teens!

4. Sing. “Is anyone of you in trouble? He should  pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise,” James 5:13. It’s tough to sing when you are sad, but when there’s joy, let it rip. Sing songs of praise to the Lord for His goodness and greatness. Don’t save your songs for the “worship” hour. Sing in the shower. Sing as you drive to work. Sing during your breaks. Not only is it hard to sing when your sad, it’s hard to get sad when you sing.

5. Rest. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest,” Matthew 11:28. In our workaholic society rest has become a dirty four letter word. In ministry you have those who accuse you of not working at all. Knocking yourself out with activities and events to prove your worth and your salary can end up making you worthless. It is impossible to be productive when you’re exhausted.

Even Jesus knew He needed time away from the crowds. I figured out a long time ago that I’m not Jesus, and if He needed rest to keep His life focused and joy- filled, then so do I - and so do you.

6. Walk with God. “Enoch walked with God,” Genesis 5:24. That’s a peaceful phrase isn’t it? It’s a phrase of intimacy,  and phrase of relationship. Develop a personal relationship with God and know joy. No relationship is more complete or secure.

The next 4 will come next week.

Your Partners in Youth Ministry,

Paul & Al

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New Bible Lesson :: 2 Timothy Lesson 5... http://tinyurl.com/2z8btu Includes, PowerPoint, lesson outline, discussion guide and class handout (as usual). :-)

Handling Conflict - To help students understand that conflict will hinder spiritual growth.

9/11 and the Sovereignty of God- September 11, 2001 was, for me, memorable. It marked the first morning of a very special trip with my wife to the quaint town of Chatham on Cape Cod.

Daily Bible Readings  - Get every teen in the Word this week!

Youth Ministry Tip of the Week

Sunday School Friend Day  - Do not overlook the small things.

Should I Walk Away?  - There is some rampant gossip going on around my school right now.

Is Anyone Watching?  - Use this for yourself or your teens.

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