MYM Blog

What You Absolutely Need To Know To Build A Healthy Youth Ministry

Written by Christopher Wesley | Feb 12, 2018 6:43:31 AM

A few weeks ago I asked my subscribers, “What’s the biggest challenge you are facing right now in ministry?”

(I’D LOVE TO KNOW YOUR ANSWER THE QUESTION ABOVE CLICK HERE)

At first the results seemed to vary from parents to programs. On the CYM Live show that I do with Michael Marchand, it seems like the same thing. Problems vary and it makes sense because:

Where you and I do ministry is different

How we are shaped as leaders is unique

Life is messy therefore so is youth ministry

While the problems at first glance are all over the place when you start to look at the questions deeper you start to notice that people really have similar struggles.

Here is what I’ve learned so far:

WE HAVE A CONFIDENCE PROBLEM

Are we good enough? Will people listen to my ideas? Can I really make a difference? Those are all questions that have loomed in my head and cause me to doubt God’s ability to use me.

God has us right where He needs us to be. That means He believes we are equipped for the job and once we start embracing that truth we can lead effectively.

To help you embrace that you need to look for men and women to speak into your life. That means:

  • Networking
  • Investing in professional coaching
  • Working on your personal relationship with Christ

Boost your confidence and you’ll boost your ability to lead others.

BUSYNESS IS DRIVING US INSANE

Complexity is the enemy to progress. When we make our programs, schedules and lives more complex it means spending more time, energy and resources. That will only lead to burnout.

If we want to have a ministry that produces life changing results it means we have to simplify what we are doing. That includes:

  • Programming 
  • Work schedule and hours
  • Goals and tasks that we are trying to accomplish

Simple isn’t easy but it is very powerful. To simplify your ministry make sure you are constantly analyzing and accessing what it is you are doing.

WE FORGET THE BIG PICTURE

Do you remember why you got involved in youth ministry? What was that burden? What made you fall in love with the idea of working with the next generation?

The answer to those questions is a story. It’s a story that needs to be developed and is worth sharing. It’s something you can use to recruit others, and advocate on the importance of your ministry.

I started Marathon Youth Ministry because I know many of us struggle to do this for the long haul. Whether it’s the messiness of youth ministry or the busyness we constantly battle building a healthy youth ministry is possible.

On February 21st I want you to join me for the:

Youth Ministry Cliff Notes Webinar

During this FREE webinar I’ll be sharing with you all 4 basic steps that you, and your coworkers can embrace to build a ministry that will last.

And not only do I want you to join me for this webinar, but I want you to stay for the entire thing because we’re going to have some big giveaways. To sign up just select the time that works best for you.

11 AM EST WEBINAR

1 PM EST WEBINAR

3 PM EST WEBINAR