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I remember, not so long ago, when my children were babies and learning to crawl. With each one their determination was impressive. I’d watch as they wiggled to get their legs underneath their body, then as they struggled to do a mini baby push up to lift themselves into position.
Just that alone was quite the workout and it took time for them to build up the necessary muscles so they could hold that position. I crawled around the floor of our living room demonstrating to them how to move your arms and legs.
The next few days (or weeks) was a combination of grunting noises, lots of drool, time spent cheering them on and too much crying. But they didn’t give up. Sure, they got tired at times and collapsed out of exhaustion, but after a rest they would come back just as determined as before to figure this thing out.
Over time, they learned how to put together the right motions to get going on their own. When that happened it was an exciting day in our home as we cheered them on. Some time later we would repeat the process as they learned to walk. With another daughter on the way this summer I look forward to being a part of this process again.
Sometimes college ministry can be like learning to crawl. It takes so much effort to feel like you’re getting your legs under you, just to collapse in exhaustion.
It’s frustrating when you’ve labored in prayer and planning to see only 5 people show up to an event. It’s challenging when students fight with each other over petty issues. It can be hard to pick yourself back up just as determined when that student you poured your time into turned against the ministry and spread false rumors about you around campus.
As we come to the end of the school year you might be wondering if you can still do college ministry. You might feel like you’ve got nothing left in you. You might feel like no one is cheering you on. But remember that you’re making an impact and the enemy will do anything he can to stop you.
[su_quote cite=””]Just like a father cheering on a baby trying to crawl, your Father is cheering you on. Don’t give up just because it’s a struggle.[/su_quote]
Don’t let discouragement stop you. Don’t let exhaustion beat you. Take a break and get away. But then, come back more determined than ever to reach the goals God has given you. With the muscles you’ve developed and the things you’ve learned you’ll find yourself making progress.
You’ll know how to handle the students who gave you trouble. How to encourage the ones who struggle with building friendships. How to bring victory to those who thought they couldn’t get over an addiction.
Just like a baby needs to go from crawling to walking, you’ll face more challenges. But when you do you’ll have experience to take them head on and you’ll see new growth as a result.
Don’t give up. There’s lives He wants you to touch. He’s put you on that campus for a reason and He has plans to advance His Kingdom there!
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