A holiday message every youth leader needs to hear

Eight years ago, my family decided to relocate from Chicago to California. It was a change that opened up many new opportunities, one of which was my role as a youth leader. What began as a fill-in for an absent pastor became an enriching two years. Thrown in at the deep end, I gained a deeper understanding of the multifaceted role of youth leaders. I came to appreciate the challenges youth leaders face and the impact they can have on young lives, both from a parental perspective and as someone directly providing youth services. This experience opened my eyes to the importance of mentorship and the critical support systems that contribute to the development of young people, enriching my appreciation for the community we were building together.

Now, as a parent and (senior) pastor, I am eternally grateful for the indelible impact youth leaders consistently make. Your persistence and commitment are not only life-changing for young people but also for the adults in their lives. However, I know that when we are entrenched in our daily work, we can become so engulfed in the duty of the work that we lose sight of the devotion to the task.

For those in youth ministry, the risk of burnout is real

Many youth leaders, motivated by a desire to influence the next generation positively, often make sacrifices that affect their own well-being. The demands of preparing lessons and activities, planning events, counseling students, seizing mentoring opportunities, and leading worship can become overwhelming, which may eventually lead to burnout.

This year, our team at FYI decided to conduct a research project on the subject. We wanted to learn more about the up-close and personal experiences of those who serve young people. We heard stories that evoked a wide range of emotions—from empathy to excitement, youth leaders shared candidly about the joys and woes of their work. These conversations were nothing short of what we expected—rich, transformative, and enlightening.

In the coming months, we’ll unpack some of these powerful stories and share our findings in a ground-breaking new report, The FYI Report on Youth Leader Burnout & Wellbeing. (Check out fulleryouthinstitute.org/burnout to be the first to know about the report, our podcast season dedicated to this topic, and other helpful resources.)

But this month, we want to highlight an urgent finding: nearly half (approximately 600) of those who took our survey reported feeling burnt out in December. For many youth leaders, burnout tends to be seasonal. And the pace and demands of the Advent and Christmas season, in particular, take a high emotional toll.

Encouragement for the ministry long haul

Youth leaders, we heard your voices and want to encourage you as you wrap up an eventful year. During research interviews, I asked youth leaders from across the country to speak directly to you, their fellow youth leaders. Here are a few things they wanted you to know!

Don’t give up. You’re making a difference.
“You should keep on doing the good work, no matter what you are facing! I know there are a lot of situations. There will be many things that will come your way. No matter what you are going through, no matter what you are facing, you have to keep doing. You have to know one thing in mind: You are not serving people. Your highest purpose is to serve God!”

Keep your gaze on the future.
“Sometimes you can encounter stubbornness or resistance from young people; don’t give up on them. Be patient and continue to offer your guidance; over time, they will come to appreciate your efforts.”

Speak up, and stay balanced.
“Make sure to ask for what you need. You may not always receive it, but it's important to voice your needs. Sometimes you may actually get what you want! Practice self-care because without it, you risk burning out. If you burn out, you won’t be able to be there for yourself, your family, or the church community that you serve.”

Refill often.
“It’s a blessing to be able to help others, but you cannot give what you don’t have. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your cup is full while you are pouring into the lives of youth and peers. You must continuously seek knowledge, surround yourself with a supportive community or tribe, and establish relationships with accountability partners and mentors. It’s important to keep being filled because we all have limits in what we know.”

Rest in God.
“I would encourage you to keep going, but also make sure you're listening to the Lord and your body when it's time to slow down. One thing I’ve realized is that resting in the Lord doesn’t mean I’m not doing anything. It means I’m doing what I can within my capacity, and He will take care of any acceleration or growth needed. That’s the Spirit's job, not mine. I plant and water, and the Lord gives the increase. So, keep going, but ensure you're not overstepping your bounds or trying to take on more than you’re meant to.”

Ground yourself for a new year of fruitful ministry

I want to provide key scripture-based affirmations to encourage you as you persist in your important work. Incorporate these monthly scriptures and the daily declaration into your devotional time to recenter, refocus, and realign your days. It is our prayer that they help anchor each month as you plan for the year ahead.

January
God has called me to this ministry with and for young people, and I will trust God to equip me for every good work right now and in the days ahead. (2 Timothy 3:17)

February
I am filled with Christ’s love and share it generously with the young people I serve, as each day is a unique opportunity for me to display God’s love. (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)

March
I lean on God’s wisdom, and God will direct my steps as I guide and inspire young people. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

April
In every challenge, I am strengthened and empowered by Christ. (Philippians 4:13)

May
I am planting seeds of faith. I will not grow weary in doing well. I will bear fruit in God’s perfect time. (Galatians 6:9)

June
The joy of the Lord is my strength. Even in busy seasons, I remain steadfast. (Nehemiah 8:10)

July
In my day-to-day interactions, I reflect God’s light and inspire hope in the young people I get to serve. (Matthew 5:16)

August
God’s grace is sufficient for me, and God’s power is perfect in my weakness. Therefore, I am gracious towards the weakness of the young people I serve. (2 Corinthians 12:9)

September
I listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit, and I trust God’s guidance in my ministry. (John 16:13)

October
I am a vessel of God’s peace, offering calm and comfort to those I lead. (Philippians 4:7)

November
I give thanks for the privilege of serving the next generation with love and faithfulness. I show up with a heart of thanksgiving and positively impact all I encounter. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

December
God is faithful in completing the work God has started through me. I remain confident that all the activities and events this year will have a lasting impact on the young people I serve. (Philippians 1:6)

Daily Declarative Prayer for Youth Leaders:
I am fully convinced of God's call on my life to guide, inspire, and nurture the next generation of young people. Through Christ's strength, I have wisdom, patience, and love to meet every challenge. I am not alone in this work. I have the support I need from other leaders, mentors, and others currently unknown to me to fulfill this call with success and excellence.

Above all, I trust the Holy Spirit to guide my words and actions, planting seeds of faith and purpose in the hearts of every young person I encounter. Even on days when the path feels uncertain or the load feels too heavy, I am reminded that my labor in the Lord is never in vain. I communicate my expressed need for a sabbath and rest when doable and necessary. Refreshed, I return to this sacred work as I know fully that I am a vessel of grace, a reflection of Christ’s love, and a light in the lives of those I am privileged to lead.

I am equipped in every way to be successful, and with God’s help, I will persevere, uplift, and serve with joy, knowing that I am fulfilling a divine mission unto the Lord. These words I decree, according to Job 22:28, so shall they be established. Amen.

Youth leaders, you are indispensable. We see you, we honor you.

You are more than just the role and variety of functions you fulfill—your presence has and will continue to leave a profound mark on those around you. Your impact is significant and resonates deeply with everyone privileged to know you.

A few years ago I was a rookie fill-in, but you are the real deal. You are incredible. Nobody can do what you do quite like you—so please keep going. We’re standing with you this year, and in the years to come.

FREE DOWNLOAD: Print these scripture-based encouragements to cheer you on when you need them most