Praying It Forward

One of the greatest joys in ministry is seeing students step into leadership and begin making disciples of their own. Shailee is a perfect example.

There were seasons when it seemed like she was going through the motions, not fully engaged or passionate about her faith. During those times, so many people poured into her—teaching, mentoring, and most importantly, praying for her constantly. Slowly but surely, God began stirring something in her heart.

By the time she joined my Young Adults ministry, it was clear that God was calling her to something bigger. Watching her spiritual maturity blossom as I gave her more and more opportunities to lead has been a privilege.

Fast forward to today, and she is now serving as the Young Adults Director in the church I pastor. She’s taken what she’s learned and is pouring into others, discipling the next wave of young adults in our church.

But it doesn’t stop there—she even contributes occasionally to interlinc, writing Blogs, Meeting Guides, and Discussion Guides that equip youth leaders like you. Seeing her step into her calling and help others grow in their walk with Christ is a constant reminder of the importance of student-led ministry.

That’s why I’m thrilled about our current issue of Youth Leaders Only, with a theme of “Student-Led Ministry: Making Disciples Who Make Disciples.”

Youth Leaders Only, in its 40th year, helps youthworkers in thousands of churches be aware of the music their students are listening to, use all forms of music in their ministries, and equip their students to make wise choices about the music & media they have in their earbuds 9 hours every day. A membership costs less than the price of a pizza each month! The theme of the current YLO is “Student-Led Ministry: Making Disciples Who Make Disciples” Click here to get it!

The heartbeat of this YLO is empowering your students to lead, disciple, and make a lasting impact. We’re here to help you guide and equip them to not just be participants in ministry but to take ownership of it.

I want to encourage you to begin identifying the Shailees in your own ministry—the students who God might be calling into leadership, even if they’re not quite there yet. Pray for them. Pray over them. Let God guide you as you pour into their lives. You never know how He’s working in their hearts or how He’s preparing them to step into His plans.

Equipping students to lead is one of the most powerful ways we can multiply our ministry impact. When students step into leadership, it not only deepens their own faith but creates ripple effects that extend far beyond your ministry.

Excited for what’s ahead,