Whether you’re starting a Sunday school class, leading a small group, or meeting students one-on-one, assessing their spiritual needs is an essential first step. Students are at a pivotal stage in their faith journey—some have a solid foundation, while others might be exploring faith for the first time. The challenge is figuring out where they are spiritually and how to help them grow, especially when time is limited. Here are some practical steps to guide you in assessing and meeting the spiritual needs of the students you’re leading.

Start with Their Stories

Students thrive when they feel seen and heard. Before diving into teaching, spend time getting to know them as individuals. Ask open-ended questions that encourage them to share about their lives and spiritual journeys, such as:

  • “If you could ask God anything, what would it be?”
  • “What’s one thing you think about when it comes to faith or the Bible?”
  • “What’s something you’ve always wondered about church or God?”

Their answers can provide valuable insight into their questions, doubts, and spiritual interests.

Create a Safe Space for Questions

Teenagers are full of questions, but they won’t ask them unless they feel safe. Let them know upfront that your group is a judgment-free zone where they can be honest about their doubts and struggles. Saying something like, “This is a space where no question is off-limits,” sets the tone for openness.

You can even introduce an anonymous question system—whether it’s a physical question box or a digital option—so students who are hesitant to speak up can still participate.

Pay Attention to How They Engage

During your time together, observe how they respond:

  • Are they curious and engaged, or are they hesitant and reserved?
  • Do they ask thoughtful questions, or do they seem unsure of where to start?
  • How do they respond to discussions about the Bible or spiritual topics?

These observations will help you gauge their comfort level and their current understanding of faith.

Use a Spiritual Self-Assessment

A simple self-assessment can help students reflect on where they are spiritually. Provide statements like:

  • “I feel confident about who Jesus is and what He’s done for me.”
  • “I know how to read and apply the Bible to my life.”
  • “I have questions about God that I don’t know how to ask.”

Ask them to rate themselves privately on a scale from 1 to 5. This gives you a snapshot of their strengths and areas where they need guidance.

Build Relationships

No assessment tool replaces the power of relationship. Take time to build trust by showing genuine interest in their lives. Consistently showing up for them—whether that’s through a text, attending their events, or remembering what’s going on in their world—creates a foundation for deeper conversations about faith.

Where to Go from Here

Once you’ve spent time assessing their spiritual needs, here are some ways to intentionally meet them:

  1. Focus on the Big Picture
    Help them see how the Bible tells one big story of God’s love and redemption. This foundation gives context for both new believers and those wanting to deepen their faith.
  2. Use Real-Life Examples
    Relatable illustrations can help spiritual truths come alive. Whether it’s sports, social media, friendships, or family challenges, find ways to connect Scripture to their everyday experiences.
  3. Equip Them for Their Own Journey
    Teach them how to navigate the Bible, use a devotional, or pray. The goal is not just to teach them content but to give them tools to grow on their own.
  4. Be Transparent About Your Faith
    Share your own journey—the doubts, struggles, and victories. Let them see that faith isn’t about perfection; it’s about following Jesus through every season of life.

A Final Thought

Students may be at different places in their spiritual journey, but one thing is true for all of them: they need to know they are loved, seen, and valued—not just by God, but by the people He’s placed in their lives. As a leader, you have the privilege of being that person for them.

With prayer, intentionality, and a willingness to meet them where they are, you can make a lasting impact. You’ve got this!