3 Steps To Raise The Bar On Student Leaders

Your youth ministry is designed to commission next generation disciples.  That means teaching them how to grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ and to grow as leaders in the church.  But that’s not always easy.

Courtesy of Tyler J. Bolken/Creative Commons License

There are times when teens disappoint us or choose another activity over the ministry.  It can be frustrating to raise leaders, but the problem might be due to the fact that we haven’t raised the bar.  To raise the bar and encourage teens to step up their game you need to make sure:

EXPECTATIONS ARE CRYSTAL CLEAR

When teenagers know what is expected of them you give them a clear path to success.  To make those expectations clear you need to:

• Write them out.
• Repeat them frequently.
• Show them tangible examples.

They are going to have temptations, and distractions.  If your expectations are clear they are going to have the right information to make the right decisions.

CREATE CONSEQUENCES TO THEIR ACTIONS

They might know what’s expected; however, are unclear on the consequences to their actions.  If a teen performs well or goes above and beyond award them.  Recognize and give them praise.

If a teen messes us or doesn’t live up to expectations explain to them how it breaks trust and can result in a loss of responsibility.  When teens know the consequences it will enable them to make wiser decisions.

COACH, MENTOR AND INVEST IN THEM

Life is challenging and your teen leaders are growing quickly.  If you can partner them up with adults to invest in them you give them an invaluable resource.  They need people:

• Speaking into their lives.
• Allowing them to ask questions.
• Providing a tangible example of how to lead.

Find men and women who can provide that example and help them rise to the next level.

If you want to raise the bar on your student leaders then you need to set them up for success.  As disciples they are growing, learning and absorbing.  When you raise the bar on your student leaders it will impact their lives and the lives of the peers around them.