If you are responsible for nourishing a flock, it is essential to feed yourself first.
Standing in front of a group of children and simply reading from the curriculum is not enough. To effectively teach and preach, preparation is key.
Preaching should come from the overflow of your own spiritual journey.
For instance, if you are delivering a sermon on prayer, immerse yourself in relevant scriptures on prayer and spend time meditating on them. Seek out insightful books on prayer and dedicate time during the week to read and absorb their teachings. The more you invest in studying the Word of God, the more impactful your preaching will become.
Teaching children has the added benefit of personal growth for adults.
When you take on the responsibility of instructing a Sunday school class, you are compelled to delve deeper into your own understanding of the Bible. This personal study enables a significant spiritual expansion that surpasses merely listening to sermons. If you truly desire exponential growth, commit to teaching a Sunday school class and experience the profound rewards of studying and conveying the Word of God to others.
Children face the same spiritual battles that adults do. Therefore, they require not less but more of God’s Word in their lives.
Unfortunately, many contemporary curricula fail to explore the profound depths of the Scriptures. While the world becomes bolder with its message, the church often appears more reserved. However, Jesus commands us to “preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15, KJV).
When teaching children, ensure that you provide them with substantial spiritual nourishment, not just surface-level content. Anything found in the Bible is suitable for teaching to children. However, bear in mind that preaching to kids requires a different approach than preaching to adults.
Remember, as you endeavor to feed others spiritually, it is crucial to prioritize your own spiritual sustenance. By investing time in personal growth and studying the Word of God, you will equip yourself to effectively minister to others, particularly children who need a deeper understanding of their faith.