Youth Work: Its Relational

“How can we talk to young people?”  “How do we grow a thriving youth ministry?”  “How can we impact the next generation?”  These can be common questions from people when thinking about serving young people.  You may have asked these questions; you might have even caught yourself saying the following;

“I don’t know what to say to young people.”  “I’m not cool enough.”  “I’m too old.”

Many people count themselves out of youth ministry because they are worried, they won’t connect.  Some youth leaders can get tangled up wondering about techniques and trends to help them succeed.  The truth is, one core value that you will find present in any thriving youth ministry is high importance on relationships.  Godly, fruitful, authentic, loving, reliable relationships.  Of course, there are lots of practical’s, admin tasks and plans to make but relationships should always be top of the priorities.

God’s greatest commands are quite simple – love God, love people.  At the heart and centre of the will of God is that people love Him and each other.  This gives us a huge indication of God’s greatest desire for us.  This is lived out in relationships.  Encouraging, real, selfless relationships.  Life is at its best when we have people around us who we can walk with, do life with, to laugh and cry with, people to make memories with.  On the flip side, loneliness really is a killer.  God’s idea to support and love one another is live giving – it’s not just a suggestion, it’s a command. 

An area the church is particularly unique and unlike any other organisation on earth is the generational factor.  All ages come together for a common purpose, with a common identity and mission.  They are all the family of God, working together, community together and generation after generation raising the next as they follow the previous.  All equal, all different and all ages.  This only happens because at the middle is the very core value of relationships.  A sincere desire from all involved to interact and build a community centred around loving each other.  No football club, pop band, school or government works quite like it.  Let’s encourage generational relationships between young and old and continue to shine in a unique way to the world. Let’s try and model and live out these values in our lives and see a generation grow into God’s relational vision for them.

5 tips when relating to young people

Be yourself, really.

Authenticity is hugely important.  Don’t try and be cool (it’s really not).  Young people will genuinely respond when you take an interest.  They enjoy being involved in conversations and listening to older people.  They will also know when you’re trying a bit too hard!

Be a good example.

Remember that you are representing Jesus.  They observe the way you walk and talk and will model themselves on who they respect.  You will stand out when compared to the crowd that they follow on Instagram as you model Godly values.  Even through your imperfections and weaknesses you can be a good example.

Be interested.

Ask good questions.  You might not initially know what to talk about, which is ok.  I am confident to say though, that you will find common ground if you keep searching for it.  Ask about their week, their hobbies, their favourite music, their favourite sports teams…  Not every conversation needs to be a deep bible study.  Relationships and common interests will be a great foundation to build on spiritually.

Be open.

Be ready to answer questions.  They may be interested in your job, family and interests.  Be ready to share a story from your week.  Maybe something funny, interesting or even a bit unfortunate.  If it interests you, share it.

Be family.

You’re family.  Don’t worry about how to ‘fit in’.  We’re all ‘in’ because we are sons and daughters, we have the same heavenly Father.  So relax, be a big brother or sister and care for the young people as you would a family member.

Psalm 74 is a great encouragement

17 Since my youth, God, you have taught me,

    and to this day I declare your marvellous deeds.

18 Even when I am old and grey,

    do not forsake me, my God,

till I declare your power to the next generation,

    your mighty acts to all who are to come.