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Q. My youth pastor left and we have a new one. I've prayed about the leadership change, but I don't feel good about the changes at all. Is it all right that I feel pessimistic about the change? What can I do?

A. It's OK to feel this way. What matters is what you do with those feelings. First of all, don't leave the group. Believe me, God is not finished with your youth group's growth. He wants to use these changes for good, not bad. (Take a look at Jeremiah 29:11.)

Secondly, I hope you will use this period of change as a time to look for ways to grow in your own faith. Sometimes when there is change, we have to depend more on God. You can also help the new youth leader and watch as God uses this service to develop your faith. You can be a role model for younger members of the group.

 God can use this time for his plan. But it depends on your reaction. You can choose pessimism or you can choose to make the best of it all. I encourage you to choose to make a positive difference.

Jim is an author, longtime youth worker and founder of HomeWord, a group seeking to honor God through strong families.

Copyright © 2008 by the author or Christianity Today International/Ignite Your Faith magazine.
Click here for reprint information on Ignite Your Faith.

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