The Lord’s youth program isn’t random. It’s built on a clear foundation—a four-part structure designed to shape youth into strong, faithful, capable disciples.

But here’s the problem: Most wards only use one or two parts.

They focus on what’s easiest. Or most familiar. Or what gets the best attendance.
But that’s not enough.

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🔩 The Four Parts of the Youth Program

1. Spiritual Growth
   
2. Physical Development
   
3. Social Intelligence
   
4. Knowledge & Skills
   

Each of these categories represents a critical area of strength the Lord wants youth to develop.

Let’s break it down.

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1. Spiritual Growth

Are youth being invited to feel the Spirit regularly, not just on Sundays, but in their weekly activities? This includes:

• Scripture challenges
  
• Testimony moments
  
• Faith-building service
  
• Purposeful gospel discussions
  

Quick check: If spiritual moments are rushed, skipped, or awkward, this leg is weak.

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2. Physical Development

Are youth strengthening their bodies through meaningful physical challenge—not just for fun, but for discipline, strength, and growth?

This includes:

• Fitness challenges
  
• Team problem-solving outdoors
  
• Learning self-reliance through physical work
  

Quick check: If your “physical” nights are just basketball games, there’s room to grow.

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3. Social Intelligence

Are youth learning to connect, communicate, and lead?

This includes:

• Roleplaying conflict resolution
  
• Leadership training
  
• Deep group discussions
  
• Working with diverse personalities
  

Quick check: If the same few youth always dominate and others shrink, you may need to restructure.

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4. Knowledge & Skills

Are you teaching real-life skills that will bless their families, missions, and futures?

This includes:

• Cooking, budgeting, repair, sewing
  
• Goal setting, scheduling, and planning
  
• Teaching, public speaking, writing
  

Quick check: If your youth haven’t learned something new in a while, this piece is missing.

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⚖️ How’s Your Balance?

If you’re hitting just one or two areas consistently, that’s not failure—it’s a starting point.
This month, try asking:

• Which pillar have we neglected?
  
• What’s a simple way to add it back in?
  

You don’t need four separate activities. One night can include all four pillars—with planning.

When youth grow in all four areas, they become forged—not just entertained.

They don’t need more parties. They need more purpose.