Rescuing Bad Leaders

By Doug Franklin August 27, 2012

Student leaders can be our greatest joy in youth ministry. Seeing them

take the lead and challenge other students to reach their potential

can make us want to stay in youth ministry all our lives. BUT students

who lead their peers down the wrong road and become distractive

leaders can break our hearts. When students’ character is bad and works

against God’s purpose, we want to get as far from them as possible. At

times we would even love to see them leave the ministry. This would be

a mistake, because it says we only love them when their actions are good.

 

So what do you do when your student leader’s character is bad?

 

1. Run to them, not away from them

The last thing they may want is a relationship with you, but keeping them

in relationship with you is the key to turning them around. Without

relationship you are lost and so are they. Meet with them, communicate

with them, make it personal and caring, even if they tell you they

want nothing to do with you. Stick by them; keep up the notes, texts

and phone calls. Don’t let them get away.

 

2. Reach out to their gang

Rogue leaders always have gangs. Show them attention, care for them,

watch their games and go to their activities. Don’t be who the rogue

leader is telling others you are. Showing love will make the gang challenge the

message of the rogue leader.

 

3. Be patient

Students are a work in progress and often they are selfish and

childish. They could also be acting out based on what is happening at

home. Remember we are to be faithful in this season of their lives. We

may not see a turn around in their high school years but God is at work and

He will use your actions for His glory.