Devotion
One of my close friends recently sent me a text, and a screenshot of Psalm
8, regarding her
newly born granddaughter, Julia. Her text read, "This is Psalm 8 in The Message version. I love the lines about babies. I'm thinking of Julia's ministry--bearing witness to God's handiwork in every wiggle and coo."
As I considered this lovely idea--of Julia’s wiggles and coos being a
ministry--it occurred to me we often identify talents or interests in children, and then wanting to
inspire them, we might say, "When you get older God will use you to be
a preacher, architect, teacher, musician," you get the idea--fill in the
blank.
It is important for children to see they can be used of God at some point in the future, and
help them develop their strengths. However, it occurred to me that we should
also encourage them to see their talents and gifts from God can be a ministry now! Children do not need to wait until adulthood to serve God. How
transformative might it be for children to see that the gifts God has given them
can be used today? They are not too young to have a ministry!
The Apostle Paul encouraged young Timothy in a similar way, "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity" 1 Timothy 4:12.
How might you encourage the children in your ministry to become ministers in their community? Share your idea!
Prayer
Copyright 2023 S.A. Keith
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Dear Lord, as we raise and teach our children, help us persuade them to use the talents you've given them to love, serve, and minister to others today!
Teach children about the Gifts of the Spirit.
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