When asked to list the challenges of leading a small church, a group of pastors identified “lack of commitment” as one of the biggest issues. As a youth leader in a small church, you probably feel this deeply. You know you need other adults helping with the youth. After months of searching, you finally find someone who will co-teach the youth class with you on Sundays. She shows up one week, shows up late the next, and quits the third. How do you deal with the lack of commitment that can be a problem in the small church?

First, understand that low commitment is not unique to small churches. Few churches of any size (or other organizations that depend on volunteers) have volunteers who always follow through with what they commit to . . . or will even commit at all. Whether it is a problem with over-commitment, immaturity, or lack of spiritual depth, low commitment in volunteer leaders can be a consistent problem. Some larger churches solve the problem by paying people to do all of the essential functions of ministry. That usually isn’t possible for smaller churches.

1. When you enlist a new volunteer . . . whether it is to plan a fun event or to teach an on-going Bible study class . . . make an appointment to sit down and talk about the job. Be clear about what you are asking them to do. Help them to understand how much time it will take. Then, give them time to pray and think about the job before they make a decision.

2. Give them responsibility. People want to be involved in things in which they believe they are making a difference. Asking someone to sit in on your Bible study may be good for you, but probably doesn’t give a new leader a sense that he is investing much in the youth group. Asking him to plan part of the lesson will give him more of a sense of investment.

3. Let them do things their way. When the youth group is accustomed to doing things your way, it may be hard for them and for you to let someone lead in a different way. As long as their way is biblical and ethical, let them try doing things differently.

4. Applaud the efforts of other volunteers. Everyone likes to feel appreciated. Find ways to help your leaders feel valued by the church, the kids, and by you.

5. Be realistic about your expectations. You may never find anyone as excited about youth ministry as you are. You may never find anyone who will invest the time you will. Set others up for success by making the job manageable for them. Finding four or five leaders who will help in small ways is probably better than finding one who will invest in everything you are doing.

Commitment may be a problem in small churches, but don’t let that discourage you. Keep looking for people who will lead smaller parts of the ministry and then encourage them. Some people will disappoint you, but you will find some who will step up in ways they never have before.