I’ve tried my best to please kids, to a point, but youth ministry is not a democracy. Some things are not up for a vote.
I don’t let kids vote what music is played in the youth hall or the van , I set the standard and give them options.
I don’t let them vote on the name of the youth ministry, I dribble out a few names to a few students to see what they think, and then we decide.
I don’t let them vote on where they go to camp, even if that means some do not go.
I don’t let them vote about what I preach on. I listen, ask questions, and let the Holy Spirit reveal it.
Can you imagine Moses taking a vote to go into the promise land?
Can you imagine Joshua taking a vote whether they should attack Jericho?
It’s not up for a vote if we’re going to feed the poor, share Jesus with the lost, have worship, or care of the lonely.
Can you imagine Jesus taking a vote on wether the disciples wanted to get in the boat and go to the other side?
We should always build consensus with young people, but young people do not know what they want, only want what is best of them, and most, do not understand the consequences of their choices; this is why they need a leader not a friend.
We should always listen, talk, and even debate, but some things, most things, are not up for a vote. Leaders have to lead and students will decide if they want to follow or not.