It is crazy to think we are about to enter 2016. Coming to a new year brings about crazy resolutions and goals. A new year reminds me of how God’s mercies are new every morning. How, under the power of Christ, restoration and transformation can occur, and that there is always hope and new life in Him. The New Year brings a sense of refreshment.
With a new year also comes a new year of ministry. Leaders, being human as well, are looking for a sense of refreshment and renewal. With 2016 in our grasp, we get another chance to love on those that serve our students. Leaders are vital to the life of our ministries. Whether they lead on a Sunday morning or Wednesday night, serve in the café, or greet—leaders make ministry happen.
I know I cannot do what I do without the leaders that serve our students. There is no way for me to disciple every single girl on a one-on-one basis within our ministry. It is unrealistic. However, the leaders understand their role as a leader in our ministry—they disciple. Just like us who have a title at a church—leaders need to be loved on. They need to know they are valued and needed. Here are a couple of ways I believe we can love on our leaders this new year:
- Pray for them.
We must lift them to our Father. We trust them to lead our students well. We cannot and should not micro manage them; however, we can pray for them and ask God to strengthen and lead them.
- Write them a letter
This seems so simple. It is. But, think of how you feel when someone has taken the time to hand write you a letter of appreciation and thanks. There is a sense of value that comes from a letter.
- Listen to them
Ask them questions. Then listen well. Ask about the specific girls they mentor. Ask their opinion on the new curriculum. Ask them what they think about the new table discussion. Each of us wants to be heard. Even if you do not necessarily agree with their opinion—listen. You listening will show you value them and their opinion.
- Empower them
Give them the freedom to be creative and run with the ministry God has called them to do. Help them see that you are for them. You are not in a competition with them for the love and admiration of the girls. You are fighting the same “good fight” they are fighting. Let them see you are on the same team.
- Resource them
After listening to your leaders, you should be able to see the ways you can resource them. Whether they need a book to read on discipleship, help buying supplies for a Christmas party, or a list of phone numbers for their group of girls—resourcing them will help them be the best leader they can be.
Leaders matter. With so many things on your plate, leaders can quickly be pushed to the side. With the start of the New Year, help your leaders feel loved and valued. Serve them. It is a great time to make them a priority.
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