A few summers ago I was training for a marathon and struggled greatly with endurance. I had no problem upping my mileage until I started embarking on the really long runs. When I would set out to run 16 miles, my legs would begin to cramp. There were some moments when I would be in so much pain that I had to stop, stretch and refuel. It was heartbreaking and I even considered quitting.
I eventually learned that my training was not well balanced. To build endurance I had to strengthen my core and calves. In the end I was able to manage the cramping and complete the marathon.
Chances are there have been periods in your youth ministry when the burdens you carry have become too much. It’s when you find yourself wanting to hide and avoid people. Your tired and even resent the ministry programs you have set up. You even consider quitting.
Youth ministry is very much like preparing for a marathon. If you do not grow and take care of yourself, you’ll find burnout rear it’s ugly head. To maintain your youth ministry endurance be sure to:
- Form Accountability Groups: Every youth minister needs to connect to a network of like minded youth workers serving in the trenches. On top of that you need men and women (Outside of ministry) who are going to help you be a better leader, spouse, parent and overall person. Make a commitment to meet regularly and surround yourself with people you trust. Accountability will keep you on the right path.
- Schedule Margin: A healthy schedule means a healthy youth minister. While every youth minister needs a calendar, what’s more important is that calendar has margin. Margin gives you the ability to meet with teens when an emergency comes up. It allows you to set a pace to your work week. With margin you are guaranteed time to breathe. To schedule margin, literally write it down in a calendar. Next make some of your margin non-negotiable, then it becomes designated free time when you can recover.
- Learning Opportunities: As a youth minister you need to grow; therefore, it’s essential that you read books, attend conferences and spend time connecting in your personal relationship with Christ. The more resources you come across the more tools you have to add to your arsenal. Finding times to learn and grow will ensure you longevity in this ministry.
- Vision And Mission Statement: In a race it’s easy to lose hope when you do not see the finish line. In ministry having a vision statement helps you figure out where you are going. A mission statement will help you figure out how to get there. Every youth minister needs both. To set one up bring together some of your trusted volunteers, pray over it and start crafting. Make it simple and sticky so that people remember it.
If you treat youth ministry like a serious journey and prepare ahead of time you’ll find success and longevity. The longer you can stay in a church the more momentum you will create. If you have momentum then you will create a ministry that is movement built to change lives.
What tips or advise would you offer for youth ministry endurance?