Not in a Hurry: Finding Depth Before Leadership

Gen Z is boldly stepping into faith spaces, TikTok, Instagram, podcasts, all sharing prayers, testimonies, and glimpses of their spiritual journeys. It’s inspiring to see young people embrace Jesus, but there’s an important lesson: spiritual growth should come before rushing into leadership or ministry.

Emy Brookins spoke candidly about the tension between Gen Z and older generations—Millennials and Gen X—when it comes to church leadership. Here are some key takeaways:

• Listen before leading. Many of us rush into ministry too quickly, skipping essential spiritual growth. Emy reflected on her own journey, wishing she had spent more time developing her character and biblical knowledge first.
• Prioritize depth over influence. Followers and social media reach don’t replace genuine discipleship.
• Lead with integrity. 1 Peter 5 reminds us shepherding God’s flock is about obedience and service, not building personal brands.
• Seek Jesus first. Motivation is great, but spiritual maturity requires patience, prayer, and study.
• Balance eagerness with guidance. Older leaders can mentor, and Gen Z must be willing to learn before leading.

@emymoorebrookins

I’m speaking from my many mistakes I’ve learned from! Just a raw convo of a real burden God has placed on my heart. Let us be a true and biblical zealous church

♬ original sound – emy brookins

My Personal Experience

When I started my blog a few months ago, I immediately dreamed of launching a Christian podcast and being a faith content creator. I made plans, got excited, and focused more on creating content than cultivating my personal relationship with God. Eventually, I realized I was rushing.

I chose to slow down and focus on genuine spiritual growth. On August 31st, I got baptized, the best day of my life. Now, I’m focusing on my faith journey, sharing the gospel when the moment arises, but I won’t rush into ministry before God calls me.

If I ever become a content creator, I’ll post about what I genuinely love and let my life naturally reflect Christ. People should see Him in me, not just in my content. A creator I admire, Charisma, does exactly this. She shares her faith occasionally while still creating content about her passions. Her life naturally reflects Christ, showing that authentic faith and creativity can coexist beautifully.

@charismastev

Tips for Growing Spiritually Without Rushing

1. Invest in your spiritual foundation. Daily prayer, Bible study, and reflection come before leadership.
2. Seek mentorship. Learn from experienced leaders who can guide you wisely.
3. Check your motives. Lead for God, not for followers or recognition.
4. Start small. Serve in small groups, volunteer, or help peers before taking on bigger roles.
5. Deepen biblical literacy. Study Scripture so it shapes your faith and actions.

Reflection Questions for Gen Z Believers

• Am I pursuing leadership for God or validation?
• Have I spent enough time learning before teaching others?
• Am I open to mentorship from experienced leaders?
• Does my faith show authentic growth?
• How can I serve faithfully where I am now before stepping into bigger roles?

Faith is a journey, not a race. Gen Z’s passion is powerful, but when paired with humility, mentorship, and solid spiritual growth, it can create a generation that impacts the church authentically and meaningfully without rushing, without pressure, and with hearts fully set on Jesus.

💌 Let’s Stay Connected!

If this post resonated with you, I’d genuinely love to hear from you.

And hey, don’t miss future posts like this!
Subscribe here to get notified when new blogs drop. Let’s grow, glow, and walk this faith journey together 🤍✨

Want to take it a step further?
Join our Community Forum! Share your thoughts, ask questions, or encourage others on their faith journey. If you haven’t already, create your profile below and jump in on various topics on the Forum.

Wanna connect more personally?
Follow on social media for daily encouragement, lifestyle reflections, and real-time updates:

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Threads
• X

Let’s keep doing life together with purpose, with grace, and with God at the center. 💫

Would you like me to pray with you? Share your prayer requests below, and we’ll lift you up in prayer.