Being a youth pastor is a rewarding but demanding role. While the focus is often placed on developing positive habits for success, it’s equally important to identify and avoid behaviors that can hinder your ministry. This article explores 13 common pitfalls that can hold anyone back, but allow me to share why these habits, in…
10 key habits that contribute to success in youth ministry, drawing inspiration from principles identified by Napoleon Hill for millionaires. Listen to the episode for context and suggestions on how to achieve each of these habits. Have a Definitive Purpose: Know why you exist as a youth pastor. What is your mission within the church…
It’s that time of year again. Brackets are busted, jerseys are ironed, and the collective roar of the crowd fills living rooms across the nation. March Madness isn’t just about buzzer-beaters and Cinderella stories, though. For youth pastors, it presents a unique opportunity to connect with your students on their turf, using the energy and…
If the past is hanging over your head and giving you the blahs, consider this question, “What If Your Youth Ministry Didn’t Exist?” Who would not have been ministered to? Who would not have been reached? Who would not have been prayed for? Who wouldn’t have found Christ? Who wound’t have found their “place”? Think…
January 1 is day many people make commitments. Somewhere around February 14 these commitments have softened if not disappeared altogether. There are commitments though, especially for Christians, that should never soften or disappear, and I’m pretty sure you know what those are. What you may not know are the qualities students are looking for in…
I was in the kitchen working on my podcast when I head the t.v talk about students and leadership. Like a magnet, it drew my ears and my eyes to the t.v. where 60 minutes was talking about a boys prep school in Newark , N.J., St. Benedicts Growing up Catholic and watching old James Cagney…
It’s a been strange week and by strange, I mean God was up to something. Earlier in the week I was writing this article about how it’s really the students and volunteers who build the culture of the youth ministry. I was overwhelmed with gratitude and decided to post a short thank you, on Facebook,…
About a week ago I was asked by author Jeff Goins if I wanted to be on his book launch team ; I said sure. I was familiar with Jeff through some videos and his book The Art of Work so I was excited to jump on board, and I am glad I did, Jeff’s new book,…
In the heart of every successful team, beyond carefully crafted plays and honed skills, lies a beating pulse – the team culture. While coaches set the stage with structure and game plans, it’s the players who breathe life into the locker room, shaping the atmosphere that can elevate or undermine performance. As former NFL center…
What do you do when you don’t know which way to go? Which job to take? Who to date/marry? Which college to attend? Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5,6 Attaining your…
