Choose to be a Piece of the Puzzle of Lasting Impact
I have been in student ministry for over 20 years. When I came in, I was arrogant and cocky, thinking I knew what was best. And while I look back on that time and cringe a little, I don’t think I am the only one who starts off doing student ministry that way. A lot of us do. And, if we choose to stay that way we will miss opportunities to be apart of something greater that is happening at your Church.
See, I believe student ministry is part of the bigger puzzle. As much as I am biased to my line of work, I am fully aware that when we work together as a whole, cohesive unit, rather than in silos, we can accomplish 
so much more. When you act as the solo act and in silos, you alienate others and promote an attitude of “I don’t need you” and “I am more important than you”. That is not how a Church should work. There should be a togetherness bond ministries share with one another.
So what can you do? How do you become a piece of the puzzle? Here are some questions you should ask as you sort through it:
- Where does our ministry fit in to the overall Church?
- How can our ministry partner together in this (event or activity)?
- How can I help?
- How can we (your ministry) support you (their ministry) in your event?
- How can I pray for you and your ministry?
Make sure you talk to the other ministries at your Church that you interact with them, find ways that you can help and support them. Support their events and cheer them on, recognizing that you all are just piece of the puzzle that can lead to greater impact. Don’t force connectedness, but pray to God asking Him to provide you opportunities to work with other ministries at your Church. Churches benefit so much when ministries work together.
The more you can do this the more likely it will help children, students, adults and families can stay connected and hopefully come to know Christ as their savior and grow in their faith. And when people experience life change like this the whole Church grows.
What can you do this week to be a piece of the greater puzzle at your Church and support other ministries? Share your thoughts below or on social media using #ymsidekick when you share.
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