I have a confession to make. I have fallen prey to Candy Crush Saga, one of the most popular games on Facebook and smartphones. I wouldn’t say it’s an obsession yet, but I have been known to fall asleep in the middle of a game, drop my phone and then hit myself between the eyes. (Ashamedly, I have a small scar to prove it.)

So, somewhat to redeem myself, I have come up with some great logic for “Things I’ve Learned While Playing Candy Crush.”  Here’s what I’ve discovered.

When you pause too long, the game starts flashing moves to “help” you.

 I’ve noticed that the game doesn’t always draw you to the move that’s best for you. It’s the same when you don’t have a clear vision of where you want to go in your ministry. You may have well-meaning people in your church, on your ministry team, or a group of parents who are pointing you toward a good idea. But upon further examination, there may be something that better fits the vision of your ministry.

Sometimes you can get so wrapped up in making quick moves to reach a goal that you miss a bomb that’s getting ready to explode.  

Has that happened to you? Have you been so focused on Kids programming and numbers that you’ve overlooked some very important things going on around you? It might be a family that’s hurting; a need that hasn’t been met; a child that hasn’t attended in several weeks; a leader who once was excited about teaching, but now shows up just as the first child arrives — if not later. Make sure you’re watching for those signs that indicate your ministry could be in trouble.

On the flip side, don’t get so wrapped up in the unnecessary bombs flashing around you that you forget your purpose.

I’ve found that sometimes you don’t need to worry about those bombs. They’re numbered so high they don’t even matter — they exist only to grab your attention away from what you need to be doing. At times, you will have distractions around you that seem urgent and bug you to the point that you can’t concentrate. It could be someone gossiping; a group doesn’t like the hall decorations; another doesn’t like the name of your afternoon program — you name it. Take a minute to evaluate what’s going on and determine what truly matters.

Lastly, I’ve spent some long nights bursting little candies in my sleep because that was the last thing on my mind before going to bed.

Don’t let that happen to you. Don’t let the things of this world take away your energy. Dwell on the Lord, who will help you to “lie down in peace and sleep” as you depend on Him.

 There’s SO much more…but I must go now…I’m on Level #163 and it’s killing me!

Klista Storts serves as the Childhood Ministry Specialist. She is married to Gary and the mother of Brett and Blake… oh yea, and Mimi to her grand-daughter, Mia! Klista is passionate about laying foundations for conversion in the lives of preschoolers. Klista loves to ask the hard questions, so look out for her!