Do we have to just wait and see who makes it through as if we were watching people floating downstream toward a waterfall? . . .

Fortunately, we are not helpless bystanders. There are some things we can do.

First, we must work to instill the understanding that church is not something you do or attend. It is not a social club, not an event, not even a building. We sometimes get so involved with the routine of the schedule and the logistics of all the details that we overlook the primary purpose. Developing a personal relationship with God is our goal.

A relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ is what we want for every person in our group. Sometimes we take the approach that if we provide enough activities and spend enough time in the programs that people will absorb God by osmosis. If that is how it works then we are in trouble because they are soaking in other influences much longer and under greater pressure.

When students develop a personal relationship with God they are more equipped to withstand the negative influences and pressures. Having experienced a closeness with Him, they will long for that and will be more likely to seek it regardless of the circumstances of life.

There are some practical steps we can take. . . .