You’d like them to read a book? Set them two tasks; read 5 pages, tell me when you’ve done that.
You’d like them to listen to a pod cast? Set them the tasks of; getting it in their iPod, and telling you some times they could listen to it in their week.
You’d like them to welcome someone at church; have them suggest someone to you, and join you as you welcome them.

The value of setting seemingly tiny tasks (and of them reporting to you when they’re done) is how it allows you to celebrate their wins, build their confidence, and encourage them to take the next development step.