How You Can Start “Raising Up the Next Generation” Today

There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing someone else raised up through your influence. To invest in someone else and see them fulfill their destiny in the kingdom of God. That’s what we’re after.

But all this talk about “raising up the next generation” can seem really idealistic, vague, and romantic. When it comes down to it, can it really be done? Maybe you have a full time job in addition to 15 hours a week you invest into leading a worship team. You just don’t have time to think about anything but what needs done for Sunday.

So how can we make “raising up the next generation” a practical reality rather than romantic idealism?

So glad you asked.

First off, “raising up the next generation of worship leaders” is too broad and freaky and demotivating…for now. I think you should start with one. Say to yourself, “I am going to raise up ONE worship leader this year (or this week, month, etc.).

1. IDENTIFY SOMEONE

It all starts with one. Who is ONE PERSON in your life or ministry that has potential? Maybe they have incredible musical ability or are super passionate about the Lord.  You don’t need to look elsewhere. God has brought people into your path for you to pour into.

2. INVOLVE THEM IN WHAT YOU DO

So often we think of discipleship as in how many times I take so and so out to starbucks, listent to their heart, and mentor them. That is fine, but it’s not the most effective strategy. Rather, involve them in the ministry you are doing. What ground are you trying to take, spiritually? What is your vision? What are you running after with all your might? Involve them in that. It’s actually freeing to take this approach because you don’t necessarily have to schedule more coffee meetings to talk for 6 hours. More effective mentoring is involving someone in what you are doing. And it’s OK to go to starbucks once in a while 🙂

3. GIVE THEM OPPORTUNITY

It’s important that you give an aspiring worship leader opportunity to step out. Begin with something simple. Maybe leading out one verse of a song or an entire song. Give them some responsibility.

4. ALLOW THEM TO FAIL

Coupled with giving them opportunity is allowing them to fail. If you dominate your disciple as a perfectionist, they won’t last. It won’t feel like a safe place for them to grow. You need to allow them to fail and create a safe environment for them to learn from mistakes.

5. OFFER FEEDBACK

Always debrief after ministry. Encourage them with what went well and challenge them on what they could improve. This is a step that is often neglected and it’s easy to have a false sense of improvement. Be kind, but speak honestly about how they could improve. It’s in taking that stuff to heart that they’ll get better.

Question: What are you doing to “raise up the next generation” in your ministry? You can leave a comment by clicking here.