Lead small

We have a BIG challenge. We want the next generation to have a really BIG faith that is authentic and sticks. But what is the difference is not in doing something big at all, what if the difference is leading small. When we lead small, we make a choice to invest strategically in the lives of a few over time to help them build an authentic faith. Leading small is about remembering these 5 BIG ideas.

Influence their faith by being present.

As a new leader, this is the most important standard. All the other standards hinge on your ability to show up. You cannot lead without trust. You cannot build a community without trust. The first step to gaining the trust of parents and kids is ensuring they know you will show up in three ways: Predictably, Randomly, and Mentally.

Clarify their faith as they grow.

When you choose to create a safe place, your kids and students experience an environment of trust where they can be themselves, have fun, ask tough questions, and ultimately have a sense of belonging. When you create a safe place, you choose to
Lead the Group to Value: Acceptance, Confidentiality, and Honesty'
Respect the Process: authentic faith is a process and you don't always have the right answer. Just go on the journey with them.

Nurture an everyday faith.

While you are called to invest in kids and students and will have influence in their lives, you are not the most important influence. That responsibility falls on their parents or guardians. They have 3,000 hours a year to influence their student, you have around 40. Remember, we always think Orange.

Inspire their faith by your example.

When it comes to character and faith, kids and parents are watching you in a way they might not watch you in other pursuits. Because it’s so personal, you can’t fake faith and character. When it comes to spiritual and character formation, your journey impacts them deeply. If you want it to be in them, it needs to be in you. Make it personal by learning names and what matters to the kids and parents you lead.

Engage their faith in a bigger story.

Whether we like it or not, our kids and parents will only be with us for a short time. We must always consider what we are preparing them for and what their next steps are. If you want to successfully win their hearts for God, then you need to understand that ensuring they have successful transitions is vital to keeping them rooted in their faith. Try to support them and stay in contact during these times.