Devoted. People are devoted to lots of things — family, friends, schoolwork, sports teams … the list goes on. But as Christians, more than anything, we desire for our kids to be devoted to God. It’s this desire that fuels our passion for Devotionals at Lifeway Kids. We believe that as kids work through stories from Scripture on a regular basis, Biblical truths will take root in their hearts. We know that God’s Word will not return void. So, each minute spent working through the Word of God will draw the hearts of our kids into deeper devotion to the Father. Check out the video below for a better look at Devotions for Kids, then check out the devotional resources we have prepared to help you help your kids grow in their devotion to our great God.
The Missing Ingredient for Growing Faith in Kids
One thing seems to take a back seat in kids ministry. Even as a kid’s pastor, I failed to preach its importance. While we may have lots of good curriculum and opportunities for “mountain-top” experiences, like VBS or camp, a critical ingredient is often missing in our plans to help children grow in their faith in Jesus.
It’s devotionals.
I’m not talking about a one-page take-home piece that’s thrown in with a craft or coloring sheet as parents pick up their kids from Sunday school or small groups. I’m talking about a devotional guide. Something that kids put in their Bible or in their backpack. A strategically crafted work that connects with a specific demographic.
Here are a three reasons that devos are important.
1) They teach kids to spend one-on-one time with God.
Corporate worship and small group community are critical, but so is time with God in isolation from the world. Matthew 6:6 gives a clear directive, not to mention that Jesus himself modeled this.
2) Devotionals get kids to open up their Bibles.
Kids need to learn to navigate Scripture so that they can navigate life.
3) A consistent devotional life tends to lead to a consistent walk with Jesus.
God seems to place rhythms in our lives. From annual celebrations and remembrances, to a weekly Sabbath flow, to the daily patterns mentioned in Deuteronomy 6, finding a rhythm in our Christian walk is important. Daily devotionals will help to establish that.
Check out these Devotions for Kids. These are written by people who have kids in these age-groups and understand the importance of a devoted life to Jesus.
Jeffrey Reed serves as the Director of Kids Ministry for Lifeway. 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. Jeffrey’s posts will give your heart and brain a workout, just like the fitness Boot Camp he leads in the mornings for Lifeway employees. Jeffrey and his wife Katherine have four kids.
7 Truths to Keep You Fit
I’m not an exercise guru of any sorts. I do have certifications in training and group fitness, but I’m a pastor first. I just like people and love to see God transform lives. Exercise is a way that you can actually see the physical results of transformation.
Here’s what’s interesting. I don’t like to exercise, but I know that consistency is going to be the best way to live longer and be a more effective agent for Jesus. (That is our job, right?)
Here are seven fitness truths that I’ve picked up in my years of training. (Be sure to read to the end!)
1. Start somewhere. It gets easier. Before long, it will become a habit.
2. If something disrupts the schedule, don’t get discouraged. It’s normal for that to happen. Just jump back in and try to stay consistent.
3. Mix it up a little bit. Try different things and different environments. Add music or try total silence.
4. Do it with others. At least communicate with a group about the process. Accountability is key.
5. Find new ways to challenge yourself. As your routine becomes second nature, try new things to keep it fresh.
6. Look for new ideas and advice from others.
7. Kids can do it. Teach them its value. Studies show that when positive habits are implemented in a child’s life, they are more likely to continue those habits as adults.
Now that you’ve read through the list, go back and read the seven truths above — but use this filter: Devotions. You can’t afford to not practice the spiritual exercise of daily devotions.
As a follower of Christ, a kids minister, or a parent, it’s vital to be spiritually fit. Here are some kids devotions to help you help them grow, too.
“For the training of the body has a limited benefit, but godliness is beneficial in every way, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Timothy 4:8, HCSB).