Devotion
Recently, a close friend sent a screenshot of Psalm
8 relating to her
newly born granddaughter. 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, a ministry of wiggles and coos, it occurred to me
that as parents we envision a future for our children based on their interests
and emerging talents, and then seeking to
inspire them, we might say, "When you grow up, you could be a baseball
player, a musician, a teacher, an architect," you get the idea.
It is important for children to see they can be used by God at some point in the future, and
then help them to develop their strengths. Yet, shouldn't we also encourage them
to use their talents and gifts as a ministry now? How
transformative might it be for children to see that the gifts God has given them
can be used today? Children do not need to wait until adulthood to serve God. 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!
Amen!
Teach children about the Gifts of the Spirit.
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