Encouragement — English

Children play an important role in ministry for God. But that is often overlooked. We, as adults, have an opportunity to learn from them. Jesus said, “Let the little children come unto me.” He cared for children and wanted to have a relationship with them. He even told His followers that unless you have the faith of a child, you cannot enter the Kingdom of God. What is the faith of a child like? Until they have reason not to, children will believe what their parents tell them and follow their instructions, as they still possess a level of trust...

We all have situations in our lives that lead to financial stress. What do we do about it? The Bible is clear that God does not want us living with anxiety. Here are 5 keys to relieving financial stress in your life: 1. ASK “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” Isaiah 41:10 (NIV). Our first response to a financial challenge needs to be prayer. It is easy for us to want to...

In over two decades of ministry leadership, I have seen the benefits of game play in ministry from every angle. I’ve served as a camp counselor where lots of relationship building happened over multi-day games. I’ve organized and executed quick game play for Sunday school and mid-week programming. I’ve written dozens of games to coordinate with VBS themes. I’ve been the dad listening to my kids talk about a team building experience with their peers or a shared moment of victory during game play in ministry time. I love games. Most children’s ministry leaders incorporate games into a portion of...

“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.” Hebrews 6:10 We all need encouragement. Early in my ministry I picked up a book from a sale table entitled “Encourage Me!” by Chuck Swindoll. Perhaps it set the tone for my Christian walk more than any other single volume. Since then, the name Chuck Swindoll has become synonymous with encouragement. Here are just a few bits of his wisdom that might help you: “Vision is the ability to see God’s presence,...

The family is the key to successful living by God’s standards. It is God’s plan for the family to be a loving, supporting team that works together for the benefit of all. When the family works together for common goals, bonds are built that will support a family to overcome many difficulties. Love, selflessness and putting the other family members’ needs ahead of your own desires are vital ingredients to achieve a prosperous unit. Unfortunately, there are many influences that cause families to stray from God’s plan. Parents don’t lead by example, children choose to rebel and break the rules,...