Characteristics of an Effective Counselor: Additional Traits That Contribute to Successful Youth Counseling (Part 3)
*Editor’s Note: this is Part 3 in a series on how you—yes, you—can help bring wise and kind counsel to a young person’s life. For Part 1 (“Do You Have […]
Youth Suicide Prevention: Dos and Don’ts
Suicide Prevention in Youth Ministry Detect clusters of clues—behavior changes, withdrawal, prior attempts, and talk of hopelessness—and treat them as urgent. Start compassionate conversations by asking directly about suicidal thoughts, […]
When Advice Isn’t Helpful
Advice — Listening Before Speaking When mistakes happen, people often need care more than lectures; be present like Job’s friends were—before they started talking. Social posts and quick opinions can […]
Stay Curious in Relationships
Stay Curious in Disciple-Making Conversations Quiet presence and thoughtful questions helped a grieving father feel heard without advice. Curiosity over personal agendas keeps the focus on the other’s story, building […]
Changing Worldviews on Race: Part 1 of a 3-Way Conversation about Race
Worldviews on Race — Stories of Change Growing up in segregated spaces and media narratives, Jim formed harmful assumptions that hardened after a MLK Day incident. Mentors, service, and listening […]
Church Leaders Need Friends
Church Leaders: Friendship Practices Progress from acquaintances to closest brothers with growing time, trust, accountability, and vulnerability. Speak truth with grace, sharing weaknesses and guarding confidentiality to deepen real ministry […]