The Download Youth Ministry Blog/
23 Jan 2025

Scroll with Purpose: Teaching Teens to Use Phones Wisely

By |2025-01-21T05:28:13-08:00January 23rd, 2025|Hybrid Ministry, Videos, Youth Ministry Ideas|0 Comments

In this episode of Hybrid Ministry, we tackle the challenge of helping teens navigate their phones with purpose and wisdom.

  • Discover three essential rules for using social media wisely
  • A powerful resource to protect your teens from harmful online content
  • and an interactive “Social Feed Audit” activity to spark meaningful conversations.

Don’t miss the downloadable Social Feed Audit Activity—a practical tool for fostering healthier digital habits.

And if you’re interested in finding out more about what I’ve got going on on my podcast, you should definitely check out my podcast: Hybrid Ministry.

Here’s all the places you can find me!

Read More
21 Jan 2025

Who would win in a cage match at DYM?

By |2025-01-21T12:31:35-08:00January 21st, 2025|Youth Ministry Ideas|0 Comments

Ok a little click-baity since there’s nothing about a cagematch, but let’s put it this way…

 

🍱 🍝 If they were restaurants:
  • A DYM Gold Membership is one of those crazy buffets in Las Vegas where you can pick ANYTHING you want. (you know, with lobster and prime rib and stuff.) (but also you get 35% off!)
  • Coleader Premium+ would be a 5-star private chef who comes to your home and crafts a personalized tasting menu and saves you hours of time in the kitchen. (and your students ask for seconds!)

🏋️‍♀️💪🏼 If they were workout plans:
  • A DYM Gold Membership would be the premium mega-gym with every type of equipment, class, and amenity you could imagine. #getPUMPED
  • Coleader Premium+ would be the elite personal trainer named Lars and/or Natasha who creates a perfectly tailored workout program just for you and your context.

 

🎉🤪 If they were youth ministry resources: (WHICH THEY ARE)
  • The DYM Gold Membership is all about giving you tons of options and the ability to choose the resources that you think will work best with your group.
  • Coleader Premium+ is top-tier, flexible, and affordable curriculum. It comes with everything you’ll need to give your students the best possible youth ministry experience.

 

DYM = the power to build your own program.

Coleader = the power to save time using world-class curriculum.
 
Read More
20 Jan 2025

Guest Post: The Leadership Superpower You’re Probably Underusing

By |2025-01-22T14:24:29-08:00January 20th, 2025|Guest Post|0 Comments

Let’s face it: ministry can feel like trying to herd cats—blindfolded—while they’re on fire. Whether you’re leading a team of volunteers, a staff of twenty, or the lone soldier in a youth ministry of chaos, one leadership tool is often underestimated: encouragement.

Now, before you roll your eyes and mutter something about “toxic positivity,” let’s set the record straight. Encouragement isn’t about slapping a high-five on bad behavior or giving gold stars for mediocrity. Instead, encouragement is ministry jet fuel. It’s the secret sauce that keeps your team moving forward, even when the wheels are wobbling. And it’s a skill that can be learned, honed, and—dare we say—weaponized for good.

Leaders who encourage are spiritually mature.

Encouragement is more than just positive reinforcement; it’s about identifying where God is at work in someone’s life and calling it out.

In life, self-doubt runs rampant; encouragement can be the difference between someone staying the course or throwing in the towel. Your words can keep people in the game! Encouragement is like opening a window and letting light into someone’s heart. It’s a shot of hope that’s often desperately needed.

Recognizing God’s work in others requires discernment because the best encouragement is intentional.

It’s about praying for those you lead, asking God for wisdom to see their strengths, and speaking truth into their lives. Encouragement becomes a way to reflect God’s grace, pointing people back to him as the ultimate source of their worth.

Leaders who encourage are humble.

Encouragement requires leaders to step out of the spotlight and elevate others.

I’ve been friends with Doug (Fields) for decades… since I was a high school freshman. Year after year, I’ve seen him demonstrate humility in leadership. He consistently shines a spotlight on others, believing in their potential and celebrating their contributions.

In a world where everyone craves credit, wise leaders give away the credit through encouragement.

Leaders who encourage are trusting.

Encouragement isn’t just about words—it’s about actions. Genuine encouragement often requires trusting someone enough to give them opportunities to lead and grow.

When you encourage someone, it makes them bulletproof. They feel safe, secure, and ready to take on challenges. And when you pair encouragement with responsibility, it shows them you truly believe in them.

But trust can feel risky. What if they fail? What if they’re not ready? Encouragement means taking that risk anyway. It’s believing in someone enough to give them authority and responsibility, even if it makes you uncomfortable. Encouragement without trust is hollow. It’s not enough to say, “You’re great!”—you have to back it up by giving people opportunities to express their greatness by using their gifts.

Leaders who encourage are authentic.

Encouragement isn’t about inflating someone’s ego for your own benefit; it’s about genuinely celebrating their character and contribution. Truthful encouragement lands beautifully. But when encouragement isn’t real—when it’s exaggerated or manipulative—it eventually erodes trust.

Why? Because encouragement without authenticity can come across as shallow or even manipulative. True encouragement requires leaders to be honest, specific, and intentional. It’s not about telling people what they want to hear—it’s about speaking truth into their lives in a way that builds them up.

What would it look like for you to up your encouragement game?

Check out the podcast here: https://podcast.downloadyouthministry.com/leaders-inspire-through-encouragement/

Read More
20 Jan 2025

I’m a youth pastor and I took a day off. Am I a sinner now?

By |2025-01-07T10:50:05-08:00January 20th, 2025|Leadership|0 Comments

Let’s start with a confession (because we’re all about those): I took a day off. I know, shocking, right? Somewhere, there’s a well-meaning youth worker whispering, “But what about the students?” Don’t worry—they’ll survive without you for one day.

Taking time for self-care in ministry can feel downright rebellious. But here’s the truth: self-care isn’t selfish—it’s holy. Yes, holy. Let’s talk about why prioritizing yourself isn’t just okay—it’s essential.

Why Self-Care Matters

1. It Prevents Burnout

Youth ministry isn’t for the faint of heart (or the short of patience). The endless stream of events, parent emails, and late-night texts can leave you feeling like a wrung-out sponge. Self-care is how you recharge before the burnout sets in, leaving you emotionally and spiritually fried.

2. It Makes You Better at Your Job

When you’re rested and recharged, you’re a better youth pastor. You’ll find more patience for that kid who keeps flipping water bottles mid-sermon and more creativity for engaging lessons. Self-care equips you to serve with energy and joy—not just survival mode.

3. It Sets a Good Example

Your students are watching you, and they’re learning from your habits. By modeling healthy boundaries, you’re teaching them that it’s okay to say no, to rest, and to care for their own well-being. That’s a lesson they’ll carry for life.

Practical Self-Care Tips for Youth Workers

If you’re wondering where to start, here’s a cheat sheet:

1. Schedule Rest

Treat your rest time like a non-negotiable meeting with the most important person you know—because it is. Whether it’s a full day, a few hours, or an unplugged evening, carve out space to recharge and guard it fiercely.

2. Set Boundaries

Repeat after me: It’s okay to say no. You don’t have to be at every event or take on every task. Saying no to one thing is saying yes to your health and longevity in ministry.

3. Delegate Like a Pro

You’re not the ministry superhero. (Sorry, but capes are out of style anyway.) Train your volunteers, empower your team, and let others share the load.

4. Pursue Hobbies

What do you love that has nothing to do with ministry? Reading? Baking? Kayaking? Whatever it is, make time for it. Life isn’t all lock-ins and sermon prep.

5. Invest in Relationships

Surround yourself with people who refresh your soul—friends, family, mentors. These connections remind you that you’re more than just a youth pastor.

6. Prioritize Your Spiritual Practices

Your relationship with God is the foundation of your ministry. Spend time in prayer, read your Bible, and worship without it being tied to planning your next talk.

7. Seek Professional Help When Needed

There’s no shame in getting extra help. If you’re struggling emotionally, mentally, or spiritually, a counselor or therapist can offer tools to get back on track.

Self-Care Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

Here’s the thing: what refreshes someone else might make you cringe. Love hiking? Hit the trails. Hate it? That’s cool—stay home and watch a movie. Experiment and find what genuinely recharges you.

The Big Picture

Taking a day off doesn’t make you a sinner—it makes you human. Self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for sustainable ministry. By caring for yourself, you’re better equipped to care for others and fulfill your calling.

So, go ahead: take that day off. Pursue that hobby. Build those relationships. And for goodness’ sake, stop feeling guilty about it. Your ministry (and your sanity) will thank you.

And hey, if you need more encouragement (or just want to hear some great stories about burnout and surviving it), check out the video conversation I had with Josh Boldman, Derry Prenket, and Todd Pearage [You can watch it here].

Read More
16 Jan 2025

Digital Detox: Finding Balance in an Always-On World

By |2024-12-15T09:46:59-08:00January 16th, 2025|Hybrid Ministry, Videos, Youth Ministry Ideas|0 Comments

Life today feels like it’s always “on,” and teenagers are growing up in a world where there’s no escape from the constant digital noise—even at home.

Inspired by Winston Churchill’s midday naps to reset his mental balance, this episode of the Hybrid Ministry Show explores how we can help teens—and ourselves—find moments of rest in an always-connected world.

As a youth pastor with 14 years of experience, I’ve seen how the challenges of this generation differ from my own. In this video, I’ll share 5 practical tips for a healthier digital lifestyle, from screen-free meals to digital sabbaths.

Plus, I’ll introduce the Digital Detox Family Challenge—a worksheet to help families reclaim their time and focus.

Youth Pastors, this is a great video to share with parents of teens!

And if you’re interested in finding out more about what I’ve got going on on my podcast, you should definitely check out my podcast: Hybrid Ministry.

Here’s all the places you can find me!

Read More
13 Jan 2025

I’m a Youth Pastor and I Want Some Friends. Where are they?

By |2025-01-07T11:02:06-08:00January 13th, 2025|Youth Ministry Ideas|1 Comment

Let’s be real: being a youth pastor can feel a little lonely sometimes. Sure, you’ve got your middle schoolers who call you “bro” unironically and volunteers who text you last-minute cancelations, but what about real friends? You know, the kind you can talk to about ministry struggles without them suggesting dodgeball as the solution?

Turns out, the need for community in ministry isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a lifeline. And if you’re currently wondering, Where are all the other youth pastors hiding?, let’s dive into why finding your people matters and how to make it happen.

Burnout Is Real (And It’s Coming for You)

Let’s not sugarcoat it: ministry is hard. The statistics are out there, and they’re not pretty—lots of pastors are burning out, considering quitting, or wondering if they can list “professional snack buyer” on LinkedIn.

Burnout doesn’t just show up with a neon sign saying, Hey, you’re done! It sneaks in with red flags like:

  • A fuse so short it feels like a sparkler.
  • Feeling so tired you’d trade your soul for a good nap.
  • Checking your email at 11:59 PM “just to see.”
  • Thinking you’re the only one pulling the weight in ministry.

If any of this sounds familiar, it’s time to hit pause.

Why Rest Isn’t Just “Nice to Have”

Let’s get this straight: rest isn’t optional. It’s biblical. Even God took a day off after creating everything. (And let’s be honest—He didn’t even have to deal with parents who think Fortnite nights are too much fun.)

But here’s the catch: rest isn’t just about collapsing on the couch in your sweatpants. True rest means doing things that actually rejuvenate you. Whether it’s taking a vacation, saying no to that extra event, or finally using your day off to recharge, it’s essential to make space for real restoration.

Advocating for Yourself (AKA Learning to Say “No”)

Here’s the deal: if you’re waiting for someone else to swoop in and set boundaries for you, you might be waiting a while. It’s up to you to say no when your plate is already overflowing and to push back when another task gets dropped in your lap.

And if your leadership isn’t modeling healthy boundaries? Be the one who starts the trend. Clear communication about your workload isn’t selfish—it’s smart. You’re not a machine, and your ministry will benefit when you’re operating at your best.

Finding Your People

Ministry can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. One of the best ways to fight burnout is to find a community that gets you—other people who’ve been there, wrestled with it, and still showed up for youth group pizza night.

Whether it’s joining a local cohort, hopping into an online network, or just grabbing coffee with another youth pastor down the street, having a support system matters.

Because let’s be honest: your middle schoolers are great, but they’re probably not the ones you’ll turn to for advice when the senior pastor asks for a “quick” meeting.

Remember: You’re Not Alone

Burnout makes you feel like you’re the only one struggling, but that’s a lie. There are people who care about you and resources ready to help you. Whether it’s a mentor, counselor, or even just a trusted friend, don’t hesitate to reach out. And no, you’re not weak for needing help—you’re human.

Let’s Get Spiritual for a Sec

Here’s the thing: burnout isn’t just about your calendar—it’s often tied to your connection with God. When was the last time you spent time in prayer, really read the Bible, or just sat in silence? Ministry isn’t supposed to replace your relationship with God, but sometimes, it sneaks in and tries. Don’t let it.

Take the First Step

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s time to take action. Start small: say no to one thing this week. Plan a coffee hangout with another youth pastor. Schedule time with God that doesn’t involve planning a sermon.

And if you need a little encouragement or want to hear some real talk about all of this, check out the conversation I had with Josh Boldman, Derry Prenket, and Todd Pearage [You can watch it here].

Remember, you’re not in this alone. So go find some friends—they’re probably out there wondering where you are, too.

Read More
9 Jan 2025

Secrets Revealed for Middle School Phone Usage

By |2024-12-28T12:08:52-08:00January 9th, 2025|Hybrid Ministry, Videos, Youth Ministry Ideas|1 Comment

One of the biggest pushbacks I ever get around my “Hybrid Ministry” strategy is

“What about Middle Schoolers”

  • They often don’t have phones
  • Or parents don’t feel comfortable giving them phones right away
  • Or a myriad of other reasons.

In this episode, I sat down with the host of the Middle School Ministry Podcast, Ronald Long, to discuss his view on it!

I’d love to have you check it out!

And if you’re interested in finding out more about what I’ve got going on on my podcast, you should definitely check out my podcast: Hybrid Ministry.

Here’s all the places you can find me!

Read More
7 Jan 2025

I’m a Youth Pastor and I Punched My Senior Pastor. Is that bad?

By |2025-01-07T10:33:01-08:00January 7th, 2025|Leadership|0 Comments

Okay, okay. I didn’t actually punch my senior pastor, but let’s be honest, we’ve all had those days where we felt like it. And if you’ve ever caught yourself fantasizing about throwing a folding chair in the staff meeting, there’s a good chance burnout is knocking on your door.

Youth ministry is one of the most rewarding gigs out there. Seriously, who else gets to eat pizza for lunch and call it a strategy meeting? But it’s also exhausting, demanding, and sometimes downright soul-crushing. Burnout? It’s not just a buzzword; it’s a very real threat. So, how do you know if you’re headed for trouble? Let’s talk about the warning signs.

Red Flags You’re on the Road to Burnout

1. A Shorter Fuse
Do you find yourself snapping at volunteers who show up late, or silently plotting revenge against that one kid who keeps asking, “Can we just play dodgeball today?”? If your patience is wearing thinner than the youth budget, it’s time to pause and take stock.

2. Constant Exhaustion
Sure, we all get tired. Late nights, lock-ins, and last-minute sermon rewrites will do that. But if you’re waking up more tired than when you went to bed—even after a full weekend off—you might need more than just a nap.

3. Inability to Disconnect
Are you checking emails while binge-watching Netflix? Answering texts about this week’s game night during family dinner? If your phone is practically an extension of your hand, you’re never giving yourself a chance to fully recharge.

4. Feeling Like You’re the Only One
Does it seem like you’re carrying the entire ministry on your back? Like no one else cares as much as you do? That “it’s all on me” mindset can be a fast track to burnout. Spoiler alert: it’s not all on you.

5. Loss of Passion
When was the last time you were genuinely excited about youth ministry? If you’re just going through the motions or secretly dreading the next Wednesday night, you’ve lost more than energy—you’ve lost your spark.

What to Do When Burnout Hits

So, what’s the game plan when these red flags start waving? Here are a few ideas to keep you from going full-on WWE in the staff meeting:

  • Talk It Out
    Call up a friend, mentor, or counselor and let them in on what’s going on. Trust me, venting to someone other than your reflection in the youth room window can work wonders.
  • Take a Break
    No, really. Step away. Whether it’s a weekend retreat or just an afternoon nap, give yourself permission to rest. Your ministry will survive without you for a hot minute, I promise.
  • Re-evaluate Your Priorities
    Are you saying “yes” to everything? Stop it. Seriously. Jesus took naps, and you can too.
  • Seek Professional Help
    If burnout has you in a chokehold, don’t hesitate to reach out to a counselor. Sometimes you need a little extra help to find your footing again.

You’re Not Alone

Here’s the thing: burnout doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re human. Recognizing the signs and taking action isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s the exact opposite. And hey, if you need more encouragement (or just want to hear some great stories about burnout and surviving it), check out the video conversation I had with Josh Boldman, Derry Prenket, and Todd Pearage [You can watch it here].

Hang in there, friend. You’ve got this—and the next time you’re tempted to throw hands in a staff meeting, just remember: pizza solves most problems.

Read More
2 Jan 2025

2024 – A Celebration of You: Hybrid Ministry Stats & Stories in Review

By |2024-12-06T08:35:43-08:00January 2nd, 2025|Hybrid Ministry, Videos, Youth Ministry Ideas|4 Comments

2024 has been a wild ride for the Hybrid Ministry Podcast!

And it’s all thanks to you, my loyal friends and listeners!

Thank you for an incredible year!

In this episode we take a look back on the year that was, share some highlights and stats, as well as a Highlight Reel of the best moments from 2024!

This just might be your favorite episode, yet!

And if you’re interested in finding out more about what I’ve got going on on my podcast, you should definitely check out my podcast: Hybrid Ministry.

Here’s all the places you can find me!

Read More
26 Dec 2024

The Definitive Social Media Strategy for Busy Youth Pastors in 2025-Hybrid Ministry Guide

By |2024-12-06T08:36:22-08:00December 26th, 2024|Hybrid Ministry, Videos, Youth Ministry Ideas|1 Comment

Stop Googling church social media tips!

In this episode of The Hybrid Ministry Show, I share a definitive guide for churches and youth pastors to master social media in 2025.

Learn how to balance online and in-person ministry, create compelling content, and engage Gen Z with strategies that work—even if you’re on a tight budget.

And if you’re interested in finding out more about what I’ve got going on on my podcast, you should definitely check out my podcast: Hybrid Ministry.

Here’s all the places you can find me!

Read More
Copyright Download Youth Ministry | All Rights Reserved
FacebookInstagram
Go to Top