Out of the frying pan into the fire

Many times in working with young people we see that the days the growth are quickly followed by great struggles. Yesterday I stood beside a young friend as they shared deep things from their life to a room full of strangers. It is always a significant moment to hear our young friends testify about the changes that have happened in their lives. In sharing about such things publicly it can really solidify these changes to them in their own lives. This is especially evident in matters where God is a part of the conversation. Spiritual things seem invisible until we talk about them and realize how real it really is.

After sharing my friend was riding high; I dropped them off at home and saw them grinning from ear to ear. It was a great sight to see. That made the phone call I got from this same friend a few hours later all the more difficult to hear. After all the good that had happened that morning the afternoon was a train wreak.

It is hard to change. Harder still when you don't feel supported in the changes you are trying to make. It makes it seem pointless and almost worse than if you would have never tried at all. It is weird, but it happens very often. I try to help people to make healthier choices in all areas if life: physically, emotionally, intellectually, socially and spiritually. I want to be a part of restoring lives to what they were designed for. There is to much pain, suffering, despair and fighting in the world. Why do these kids have to face opposition for good, healthy and positive changes? But they do. They feel like they are finally getting out if the frying pan and are shoved into the fire. I hate to watch it and it hurts to see them go through something so hard and yet I am powerless to change. It is simply a road they must walk on their way to choosing and living out who they want to be despite any or all matter of challenge or opposition they face.

I suppose that a choice they stick with even in the midst of all the turmoil will be something life altering instead of merely appeasing. After all it is fire that refines gold isn't it?
Danny Ferguson
Langley Area Director
Greater Vancouver YFC / Youth Unlimited
604-968-1812
danny@youthunlimited.com

I love being married to April