I love pouring into young children's ministry leaders. We currently have over 30 interns in our church that we are investing in.
Today I was riding with a couple of our interns and one asked me what I'd do differently if I were just starting out. Great question.
I shared a few with him and I'd like to share some with you. (if you're over 30, you can read on as well)
Learn to lead adults.
You must be able to lead adults if you're going to be successful in children's ministry. Sharpen your leadership skills.
Don't take things personal.
People will leave your ministry. Families will get upset. Volunteers will quit. Don't take it personal. It happens to everyone.
Do a few things well.
Less is more. Narrow your ministry programs to a few that are highly effective.
Become good at asking the right questions.
Good leaders give good answers. Great leaders ask great questions.
Develop your people skills.
Children's Ministry is all about relationships. Hone your people skills.
Read! Read! Read!
Read at least 2 books a month. Pick books that will help you grow spiritually, grow as a leader, grow in your area of ministry, and grow in your relationships.
Learn how to effectively manage conflict and navigate confrontation.
Study and learn how to use best practices in dealing with conflict and confrontation.
Be yourself.
Learn from others but don't try to be others. God made you unique for a reason. He wants to use you, not your version of someone else.
Pace yourself.
Ministry is a marathon, not a sprint. The best way to succeed in ministry is to stay in ministry. Find a pace that you can sustain for the long haul.
Know yourself.
Work on being self-aware. Know your personality type, your strengths, your weaknesses, and your tendencies. You can only improve what you know about.
What are some other areas that leaders under 30 should concentrate on? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.
