People without a vision will be personally frustrated at the lack of purpose, but leaders without a vision are dangerous because others are following them in their aimlessness. Warren Bennis and Burt Nanus in their book Leaders: Strategies for Taking Charge said it this way, “The absence or ineffectiveness of leadership implies the absence of vision, a dreamless society, and…
Tag Archives Leadership
I made a remarkable scientific discovery in the fifth grade. Actually I did not discover this scientific principle: I just became aware of it. I was playing with two magnets, watching them attract each other, and that’s when it happened. I turned them around and voila! …they repelled one another. I know this is not “earth shattering” information. Most of…
Ministry should be dynamic and exciting; it is too important to approach casually or passively. Ministry should always be changing because culture constantly evolves. It is imperative that we be anchored firmly in our Biblical Principles while assessing and changing our methods. I recently read While You Were Micro-Sleeping, Fresh Insights on the Changing Face of North American Missions by…
Women who faithfully serve in Youth Ministry are the heart and soul of reaching and discipling students. They play a vital role and their contribution to the cause of Christ will only be measured in eternity. As a consultant to Local Churches, I have the privilege of working alongside great Student Ministry leaders who are having a global impact. Some…
The teen years are not a “holding pattern” but should be a time of utilizing the power of youth. We are not preparing them to be leaders in the future; we are preparing them now for this moment. Being salt and light is not a post-graduate concept. Some of the most vocal advocates for change in student ministry are the…
I have a burden and passion for Student ministry around the world. I am privileged in my travels to connect with men and women who share that passion. Today was one of those days but it was especially rewarding because it was here in Alabama, my home state. Student ministry in Alabama is alive and well and especially in the…
This is the third and final post in the Four Erroneous Youth Ministry Philosophies series. Sections three and four represent ministry approaches based on program and personality. Youth ministries need a program as well as leadership with personality; however, both function best when founded on Biblical principles. Section Three: “All Dressed Up and Nowhere to Go – Buttoned Up and…
“I’ve tried everything!” Remember those words from Part 1? If not refer back to my post on January 12. I have divided the philosophical approaches into four sections determined by their predominant thrust. In Part 2 we will examine the first two sections and will conclude next Tuesday with Part 3, so stay with me. Keep in mind that some…
“I’ve tried everything!” I frequently hear these frustrated words from well meaning people who want to make an eternal impact on the lives of students. They work hard trying various approaches but are unable to grasp the illusive key to successful ministry. Over the last thirty years, I have observed some of these valiant efforts which I call “erroneous youth…
Perhaps you remember the commercial of the rugged cowboys riding across the prairie ropes in hand. Due to historical reference you think they are herding cattle but then as the camera pans out, your senses are momentarily confused as you see thousands of . . . . . cats. I really do not remember the point of the commercial but…