Things to Do

God's purpose for your life is uncovered in a variety of experiences

 

Take a spiritual gifts inventory

What's a spiritual gift? 

A spiritual gift is a unique characteristic given to Christians to get Christ's work done here on earth.  Everyone has at least one, and each person has a different combination of them.  The one common denominator is that they should all be used!

"There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit.  There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.  There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men.  Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good." 1 Corinthians 12:4-7

To learn more about spiritual gifts and how to identify yours and use them, talk to your pastor or youth worker.  Spiritual gifts inventories are available!

 

Take a personality inventory

Personality inventories can take on many different forms.  Two suggestions would be: Myers-Briggs Type Indicator or  Strong Interest Inventory

Many times the result of these inventories have a strong correlation to your occupations that you will enjoy and be successful in.

 

Teach a Sunday school class

The best way to sample if teaching might be right for you is to begin helping with a Sunday School class or summer VBS.  It's also a great way to serve your church.

 

Participate in a Bible Study

In Acts 2:42-45, Luke writes:  "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.  Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles.  All the believers were together and had everything in common.  Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need.  Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts.  They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.  And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved."


What does this have to do with being in a Bible study?  Look at the underlined verses.  Aren't they all things that you experience as part of a Bible study?  And as you develop in your faith, you will become bold to share it with others.  At that time the last line will come true!  God will add to the number daily!  How awesome.

 

Make a list of what is important in your life

Keeping track of what is important to you can help you make wise decisions with your life.  Let's try a few:

What is important Why is it important
Playing Basketball Provides exercise
  Fulfills my sense of competition
  I am developing leadership skills
My belief in God My future depends on it
  God is always there for me, I can't imagine living my life without Him

                                    
Now, how will this help you make life decisions?

Try this.  It's time to apply to colleges.  You take a look back at your list and you see these two items.  What type of school will you apply to?  Probably one that will allow you to continue playing your sport, and one that will allow you to continue building and upholding your faith.

Your list will change over time.  Be sure to keep up with it!! Now it's your turn!!

 

Begin to make short and long-term goals for yourself

Knowing where you want to go will make getting there so much easier!!! Try making a list of short and long term goals. 

Start with easy things like
  Getting straight B's next semester
    Or
  Memorizing 4 Bible verses each month

Than begin to think more grand - but be sure to be real.
   Being accepted to all the colleges I apply to
    Or
   Complete a mission trip to Hong Kong

Keep your short and long term goal list where you see it every day! Cross things out as they are accomplished, and something new when one item is deleted!

 

Earn good grades

If you're serious about pursuing a church professional career, than it will be best to attend a Concordia University System College or University. These are all private universities, but they offer wonderful academic scholarships.  The best way to ensure you will receive academic scholarships to help defray your college expenses is to work hard now for the grades.

You may want to check with the college and university admission offices to see what their criteria are for receiving academic scholarships.

 

Stay involved (or get involved) in extra-curricular activities

Many colleges and universities offer scholarship money for athletics, music, drama, and other extra-curricular activities.  So, if you aren't involved now, jump in!  Leadership in clubs and organizations count too!

 

Volunteer your time at a community or church related charity

Jesus spent His entire ministry serving others.  He showed us that no one is excluded from the love and forgiveness of God.  You are on this earth as Jesus' representative. What you choose to do with your free time is up to you, but why not use it sharing God's love with others.

If that's not enough reason, volunteer activities look great on college applications and on resumes.