What I wish I knew when I started in KidMin

I recently took a survey on FB asking the question, “If you could give some advice to a person who is new in ministry, what would it be?”

I was blown away by the answers and how many responses I received.

Father God calls us and we answer His call.  Our journey begins.  Early in ministry it is exciting, but then the rubber meets the road.

THE CALL

These responses are from real KidMin Leaders who share what they have learned about answering The Call.

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”  Ephesians 2:10

Prayer – Continually pray for God’s direction…listen to your Pastor’s instruction and be humble.

Don’t let criticism get you down – It is impossible to please everyone. Are you called by God? Are you doing His will? Are your intentions good? Rest in those truths.

You work for God, not the church – Don’t worry when others aren’t pleased as long as you feel it is pleasing to God. You cannot be thin skinned and survive in the ministry. When you are doing best by Him, Satan WILL send someone to attack.

Identity – Find your identity in Christ, not your position.  It is easy to be consumed with ministry, but remember who called you and why He called you.

BALANCE!!! It is possible to NOT work 987,876,767 hours a week and still get the job done. Set your boundaries!!

Have fun! – Seriously, if you are having fun, so will your kids, your parents, your volunteers, and your church. If you approach ministry as a job or a chore, it will feel that way to others too. Have a great time doing what God has called you too.

When you feel overwhelmed – When it starts to feel like too much, (and it will), stop, pray, breathe and evaluate: have you taken on more than God has called you to? or, are you trying to do it out of your own strength rather than relying on the Holy see God at work in and through your life and ministry. Remember that God called you and don’t give up on the call.

Your relationship –  Your relationship with Jesus and ministry are not the same thing. Remember you fellowship with Jesus and you serve others in ministry.

Your story – Start a record now of God’s faithfulness. Write down little and big ways that you.  Ministry is a huge blessing, but there will also be days you want to quit. Looking back at God’s faithfulness will help you stay in this race!!!

There you have it. This is what other KidMin Leaders wished they knew, when they started, concerning the Call and journey they were beginning.

Let me know what stuck out to you, or what can you say “Amen” to.