Old Enough to Worship

As a worship-leader-turned-kids-pastor, I love to see that children’s ministries are incorporating more worship in the form of music into their ministries.

Sometimes, however, the question comes up. Are babies too young for this? Are preschoolers too young to do worship songs?

First, let’s define worship.

Webster, and most authorities, concur that worship is “an act of love or deep admiration for something or someone.” For the believer, it has a different context. It is not limited to music. The church expresses its love by worshiping God. Music is a primary channel for this.

The bottom line is: the question is not “Can wee little ones worship?” The question is, “Can they love or admire God?” Most would answer yes to this. Should we do worship songs with younger kids, even though many of them have yet to begin the journey? Absolutely. There is also the place for songs that meet other needs, like memorizing scripture, welcoming them to church, or simply getting kids moving.

People automatically worship something. Even very little people. Our goal is aim their passion towards God. Some of the best worship services I’ve been to were in the midst of a camp setting where 1,000 kids sang to Jesus from the bottom of their hearts. I am completely moved when I see a little kid sing.

I don’t have any idea what this little girl is singing, but she means it…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bw1SnGvzX2g

Tap into the joy that God has placed deep in the heart of every kid and allow it to come out in the expression of singing and praise towards God.

Imagine what it would look like if we raised a generation of children who were deeply in love with Jesus for what He’s done for us and completely comfortable with worshiping Him before the nations!

 He answered, “I tell you, if they were to keep silent, the stones would cry out!” – Luke 19:40

Jeffrey Reed serves on the leadership team for Lifeway Kids. He came to Lifeway with a wide variety of ministry experiences including worship leader, director of children’s ministry, and executive leadership in several growing congregations. He, his wife Katherine, and their four kids attend Rolling Hills Community Church in Franklin, TN.