In my opinion the enthusiasm, ideas and energy college age people bring to the table cannot be compared to another age stage.  We ought to allow them to take the lead, assume responsibility, and sometimes even tell us what should be done in our churches and ministries.

But that doesn’t mean we don’t need to lead.

I’ve learned to take things slowly, especially when it comes to putting people into leadership positions.  In college ministry we need to balance the development of giftedness with character.  College age people aren’t lacking in giftedness, but character can be an issue.  I know what you’re thinking– plenty of college age people have very solid characters, but I also know those that have giftedness that far surpasses their character.  And isn’t the same true for junior high and  high school students too?

I confess, this was my story when I was in college.  I had some gifts, but my character fell far behind.  I wasn’t living a crazy lifestyle, but my character still was lacking.  It’s said that giftedness is what gets you places, but character is what keeps you there. Do you agree or disagree with what I’ve said here so far?  Would you say you were more gifted in college or that that you had more character (and the giftedness came later)?  I’d love to hear your thoughts.