Discipleship by Hanging Out

Whether they mean to or not, great youth leaders often do what Alvin Reid of Ligonier Ministries calls “informal mentoring.” You may have heard of it described as “discipleship by hanging out.”

Reid’s recent post describes how he is intentional about informal mentoring with his ministry students, though he also participates in planned and formal meetings-based mentoring. As youth leaders for middle and high school students, we may have even more opportunities for intentional hanging out with willing students. 

Why make the effort?

Informal mentoring offers excellent opportunities for defining moments. I have seen a young man process an important life concept in conversation during a two-hour drive far more often than in a more formal setting.

If you are not already doing so, think about someone you want to mentor. Ask yourself what things you currently do that would allow you to involve these protégés: running errands, cleaning your office, working on a project, or doing yard work, for instance. Think of normal activities where you could invite someone to walk with you. Adjust your lifestyle to include other people in these activities. And as you spend time together, talk about life and godliness, about theology and its application.

If you benefited from hanging out with a youth leader who seemed to enjoy spending time and talking about life with you, you already know the impact that can have. Maybe we can find more ways to make that happen with some of our students.