4. Lack of Parental Support. Even if you do everything you can to get parents on your side, there may be times when you lack the support you desire and need. As the youth minister, you may get blamed for a teen’s personal problems because, “You didn’t do enough.” Or you may not be going in the direction that the parents want you to.

Tip: Regardless of the circumstances, avoid overreacting. Treat parents with respect and honor through the hard times and the next time things get rough you may find that you have more supporters than ever before.

5. Lack of Staff Member Support. Even if the parents aren’t on your side all the time, you certainly want the staff on your side. These are the people you work with everyday – they’re hard to avoid!

Tip: Tensions on staff arise from multiple sources: envy, personality, salary, office hours, to name a few. Keep relationships strong by having a weekly share session to talk about problems, prayer requests, and dreams. Form a team concept among staff members.

6. Not enough time. There are only twenty-four hours in a day, and nothing will change that. You put in your office time, visit with kids after school, catch a quick supper, and then attend a school function of one of the teens. This cycle can seem endless when you suddenly realize you have to get a class, devotional, and leader’s material ready by this afternoon!

Tip: Prioritize your time. There never seems to be enough time when you don’t know what’s coming next. Review your day each morning and make every minute count.

Your Partners in Youth Ministry,

Paul and Al

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