I'm sure you've already discovered infrequency of praise for your tireless service. To enjoy long-term youth ministry, your validation must come from the confidence that God is using you to impact the lives of young people, not from the praise of others. Building relationships is effective youth ministry Quality youth ministry is built on the foundation of meaningful relationships. Beyond all the hype and flashy programs, it's the relationships with kids that measure an outstanding youth group. Your relationship with kids will last years longer than the faint memory of your best message.
Messages are important, but relationships impact kids more than speeches do.
I really wish kids remembered my messages . . . They remember the time we spend together. Teenagers need strong relationships with adults. Though few admit it, they desire significant relationships with older people. When your kids feel the love you have for them, they will understand your spoken messages about God's love much better.