Shepherding students in ministry often feels a lot like herding sheep. There are days when they scatter in different directions, lost and confused, while other days they gather closely, needing care, guidance, and reassurance. The Bible often compares believers to sheep (John 10:11, Psalm 23), highlighting the relationship between a shepherd and their flock. For youth pastors, this role calls us to a life of compassion, patience, and devotion.

Embrace the Heart of the Shepherd

Jesus refers to Himself as the Good Shepherd in John 10:11: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” This is a powerful example of sacrificial love and leadership. Youth pastors have the opportunity to adopt the same compassion and selflessness Jesus modeled.

Sarah, a new student in our ministry had a hard time fitting in. Every event, she’d sit in the back, hoping not to be noticed. Over time, I made it a priority to connect with her one-on-one getting to know her story. Slowly, she began to open up. She needed that individual attention, much like a shepherd tending to a wounded lamb. Eventually, she became one of the most engaged members of our group. Sarah taught me that being a shepherd means noticing the ones on the fringes and being willing to pour into them.

Being a shepherd means embracing those one-on-one moments (appropriately). Jesus didn’t just minister to the crowds; He called individuals by name, knowing each of them personally.

Who in your ministry might be a “lost sheep”? You probably already know their name. How can you take steps to connect with them this week?

Lead, Don’t Drive

Sheep are unique animals—they don’t respond well to being driven. They need a shepherd who guides gently, calling them to follow rather than forcing them along. Ezekiel 34:11-12 captures God’s promise to seek out and care for His scattered sheep. Our students, like sheep, respond to leaders who walk alongside them, setting a course by example and invitation.

One year, we had a challenging group of sophomores guys who were constantly testing boundaries. My instinct was to establish stricter rules, thinking it would solve the issues. Sometimes my heart was cold toward them and didn’t want to give them the time of day. But then, I decided to try a different approach. Instead of “driving” them, I engaged them in discussions about what they wanted the group to look like. Through this process, they felt ownership, and many became leaders themselves, setting an example for others. It was amazing the transformation that happened when I gave away some leadership and gave them ownership.

Leading with compassion involves patience. When we model the behavior we want to see, students follow out of respect and connection. They feel like part of the community, not just followers.

Are there any ways you might be “driving” students instead of leading them? How can you create a culture of following by example?

Protect the Flock

A good shepherd not only guides but also protects. In 1 Peter 5:2-3, Peter urges leaders to “be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care.” This is part of the “mantel of leadership” God gives to His shepherds to spiritually (and physically) protect the flock. Sometimes, protecting students means stepping into tough conversations or setting boundaries, even when it’s uncomfortable. It means fervent prayer on a regular basis and a belief God is fighting the battle with us.

A while back, I noticed a group of students were excluding themselves from events. (Students tend to vote with their feet.) They would walk the halls instead of coming in the big room with the rest of the students. They were very dismissive with me whenever I would confront them. Instead of addressing it in a broad message, I took time to speak individually with those involved, I told them I was going to be patient with them and the door was always open. Though they resisted at first, eventually they understood. I’d like to say they came around and jumped back in, but not yet. (Yes, I have talked with their parents.) I believe this group will engage at some point but for now I’m praying fervently for them to return just waiting for the Lord to open the door even wider for them to engage. I know there is evil in this situation and my approach has been to loving communicate my expectations and hopes, pray like crazy for them and be patient. The rest of the group knows what’s going on as they are watching to see how I approach it. These tough situations sometimes mean protecting not just individuals but the overall health of the ministry.

It’s our responsibility as shepherds to guard our flock from spiritual harm, whether it’s unhealthy dynamics within the group or outside influences. Protecting our students isn’t always easy, but it’s essential to creating a safe space where they can grow in Christ.

What situations or influences might you need to protect your students from? How can you approach these conversations with wisdom and grace?

Seek the Lost

In Luke 15:4, Jesus talks about leaving the ninety-nine sheep to go after the one that is lost. This is the heart of student ministry: seeking out those who have wandered and helping them find their way back.

One of our students stopped attending after facing some tough issues at home. (Which is very common these days in student ministry.) He thought he didn’t belong and began withdrawing from everyone. After several weeks, I reached out, letting him know he was missed and offering a listening ear. A few more conversations led to his return, and he eventually shared his testimony, impacting others deeply. Sometimes, reaching out to those who are lost brings them back to a place where they can share and heal.

Youth pastors are called to pursue the students who have wandered off. This pursuit may be time-consuming and even met with resistance, but it can lead to deep transformations.

Is there a student you know who has drifted away? How might you reach out to them this week, showing them they’re still part of the “flock”?

Trust the Ultimate Shepherd

Finally, as youth pastors, we must remember that Jesus is the ultimate Shepherd, and we are simply stewards of His flock. Psalm 23:1 reminds us, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” Trusting in His guidance allows us to release control and recognize that He cares for these students even more than we do.

In my early days of ministry, I often felt the weight of responsibility. I was a young, pride-filled youth pastor who believe it was “all me.” But as I began to pray more fervently for my students, I realized I wasn’t meant to carry it alone. It took a water-shed conversation with the Lord at a Youth Ministry conference in 1996 to shake my pride enough for me to listen. That was a hard moment for me, but it changed my perspective on ministry and I have never forgotten it. God knows my students better than I do. There was a peace in knowing that God was already at work in their lives, often in ways I couldn’t see. I learned to trust Him to shepherd them through seasons when my influence was limited. This is a liberating and freeing moment for every youth pastor to experience.

We’re called to be faithful shepherds, but ultimately, our students are in God’s hands. Our role is to guide them to Jesus, their true Shepherd.

What burdens are you carrying in ministry that you need to surrender to God? How can you rely more on His guidance as you shepherd your students?

A Call to Shepherd with Compassion

Sheep herding in student ministry requires patience, love, and sometimes difficult conversations. It means leaving the ninety-nine to find the one, guarding the flock from harm, and leading by example. As youth pastors, we have the incredible privilege of walking alongside our students, guiding them toward the ultimate Shepherd. Let us shepherd with the heart of Jesus, offering grace, guidance, and love every step of the way.

Would love to hear your thoughts on how you Shepherd your students. Comment below.