If you have been doing kids’ ministry for any length of time, you have discovered that many do not see it as “real ministry.” This is false, of course, but people’s attitudes can still wear you down.
As the leader, it’s critical that you not allow this to happen. You have to continue to encourage yourself.
Here is a scripture that helped me: “I am speaking to you who are Gentiles. Inasmuch then as I am an apostle of Gentiles, I magnify my ministry.” Romans 11:13 NASB
Paul said, “I magnify my ministry.” He magnified his calling. Why did Paul have to magnify his ministry? Because some people in the church did not respect his ministry.
Paul was the apostle to the Gentiles. The Gentiles felt like second-class citizens in the book of Acts. Peter and James saw the Gentiles as a lesser ministry, but Paul did not see it that way. Father God didn’t see it that way either. Christ died for both the Jews and the Gentiles.
There will be people in the church who see kids’ ministry as a lesser ministry, but Father God does not see it that way. Kids’ ministry is precious to our Heavenly Father.
Is kids’ ministry more important than other ministries? No, but it is a special work to the Lord.
Here’s how I know: There are many names for God in the Bible: Creator, El Shaddai, Jehovah Jireh, and many more; but the name He likes best is Father.
How do I know? Because that is what Jesus called him—Father—and you can’t be a father without kids. Father God is the One that called you. He is the One that gave you this assignment, and ultimately you are doing it for Him.
There will be times it will seem like nobody cares about what you do:
- Parents may be angry with you
- Volunteers may not show up
- Staff members may disrespect you
But know that Father God is pleased with you.
If you are feeling disrespected, just remember that Paul was disrespected too. What should you do if someone disrespects you? Do what Paul did. Don’t let it get you down; magnify your ministry.
Magnify your calling. Remember this, people respond to passion. When you are passionate about kids’ ministry, your fire will rub off on other people, and they will change.