Today our theme is the National Ministry Conference—NMC.

This is a moment where Youth for Christ Canada gathers as a national family to pause, listen, and re-centre ourselves on Jesus and His mission. In the midst of busy ministry rhythms, this is an invitation to step back and remember the goodness of God and what actually sustains us: His presence, His Word, and His grace at work in us.

As you begin, take a slow breath. Let your shoulders drop. You are not carrying everything alone.Jesus, please settle our hearts. Quiet our thoughts. Speak to us through your Word and refresh our love for you.

As I read today’s passage, listen first for what God may be speaking to you personally.

1 Peter 2:1–3 “So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.”

What attitudes or patterns might God be inviting you to “put away” in this season of ministry?

Pause

What would it look like for you to “long for the pure spiritual milk” again—to return to simple dependence on Jesus?

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Where do you need to be reminded today that the Lord is good—not just in theory, but in your lived experience?

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Part 2: Outward Focus

As we read the passage again, bring to mind the young people you serve in your chapter and those being served across the country.

1 Peter 2:1–3 “So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.”

How can you pray for YFC youth to experience the goodness of God in a way that is real, safe, and transformative?

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What would it look like for youth to encounter environments where they can genuinely “grow up into salvation”?

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How might God be calling your ministry to help young people taste and see that the Lord is good?

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As we gather at NMC, may we remember that being ready to respond to the needs of youth begins with being rooted in Jesus ourselves. Before we can offer hope to a searching generation, we must first remain nourished by the goodness of God. When our lives are grounded in Him, we become steady voices of grace, truth, courage, and compassion in the lives of young people so they can experience the goodness of God.