We live in a culture that continually focuses on the outward appearance, popularity, money, and fame. We live in a culture of comparison. Most people greet each other with, “Wow, you look nice” or “I really like your outfit.” The problem that comes is that comparing one person to another breeds an unhealthy value system. Students and even most adults struggle with their self-image. Insecure people find artificial security when they compare themselves to someone that makes them feel superior. Comparing oneself to another is a trap.
Believers need to stand up and quit comparing based on the outward appearance. We need to encourage based upon their heart and character (2 Corinthians 5:12, 1 Samuel 16:7 Ephesians 2:10a).

We all want acceptance, belonging and people to love us. The desire we have for these feelings are only completely fulfilled in a close, personal relationship with Jesus.

There are so many choices that families have to make in today’s culture. With technology moving rapidly and all things becoming more accessible, what should be our response to these choices?

One of the biggest questions that I encourage students to ask in any situation is, “Is this the wise thing to do?”

Many times I get the question, “Josh…so what is wrong with this movie…?” Along with many other questions that arise. I could simply respond with my thoughts, background, preferences, etc. The simple response to this question, should be a question in return…pointed towards the heart. Leading students to make wise decisions must begin with them finding truth through asking the right questions.

Instead of, “What is wrong with it?” We should pursue this question, “What is right with it?”

I’m convinced that God is working in the lives of students. As leaders, we need to encourage them to pursue godly wisdom in life’s decisions.

Here are a few websites that me and Cassidy use often in our decision-making progress:

Plugged-in Online – Christian media reviews (I use this many times per week)

CPYU - Center for Parent and Youth Understanding: Great tool to stay current on youth culture. Parents, you need to sign up for the e-news.

What about you? I’d like to know your thoughts?

I really enjoy movies. They tell a story, draw you in and make you feel part of the movie. Media is one of the largest culture shapers today. It can lead to shaping someone’s beliefs, convictions and even lifestyle. For example, there were many reports of car races the night the “Fast and Furious” movie came out. Back in the day, after watching “The Mighty Ducks” me and my brothers were begging our parents to go pick up some roller blades and hockey sticks!

My younger brother, Justin has a passion to use media to reach people with Jesus. I just wanted to highlight his work on my blog for a couple reasons. First, he is my awesome brother and second, he does a great job in writing, filming, and editing videos. Growing up, we always wanted to video our boxing matches, bike racing, etc. Justin has taken it to another level and I look forward to God using him in a mighty way. Ultimately, that should be our goal as Christ-followers – to lead people to Jesus.

Click here for his YouTube website.

Check out some videos!

We are having our second Fusion Weekend this October! It is a student weekend focused on exciting worship, powerful teaching and small groups that meet in homes provided by church members. Last year was a great success and we saw many students grow closer to God and each other. This year’s theme is “iGro” and will be to motivate and encourage students for personal, spiritual growth in their relationship with Christ.

At a time when many students never learn how to have a growing relationship with Christ AFTER high school, we are focusing on giving them the right tools and training to learn to follow Christ daily.

October 3-5 is the date! All students from grades 6-12th are encouraged to come!

What will it take for youth to realize the truth and love of Christ?

I’m haunted by this question as a student pastor. I have seen so much pain, depression, hurt, and frustration in the past year. I continually try and study youth culture to understand where students are finding “truth” today and purpose.

I was reading a blog today on some trends in youth culture. The whole “Soulja boy” epedemic spreading especially in middle schools today with a dance to this song. Once I found out what the song means, once again my heart breaks for this generation of students. Is it just the music or lyrics that bother me?

To me it is a deeper issue of why this culture is so far from God.

I’ve been reading Hebrews lately and this verse stuck out to me today:

“Pursue peace wtih all men, and the sanctification, without which no one will see the Lord.” Hebrews 12:14

The word sanctification in this verse means:

A drawing near to God with full faith and a cleansed conscience, a genuine acceptance of Christ as the Savior and sacrifice for sin.

I have had a heart check today to realize how much students need forgiveness and cleansing from God. I realize that as a student pastor I need to be renewed daily by God’s Word and prayer for the needs of students.

Students need to see Jesus in us. I believe this is where we must stay if we are going to turn the tide of this current culture.

Lastly, I read an article about the influence of music on youth today. I was so disappointed but not surprised at the 138 comments following the article.

What do you think about the influence of music in youth culture?
What is our response to the trends (“Soulja Boy”) in youth culture?