Style or Substance?
Today’s media exalt those who have “star power.” The wild popularity of reality TV shows that search for the next big star is proof of that. Unfortunately, that obsession with good looks and talent can creep into a church’s children’s ministry.

Is your ministry focused more on those few kids who stand out from the rest or are there opportunities for a large number of kids to minister to the entire group? After all, Jesus didn’t choose the popular entertainers of His day to follow him – He chose average, ordinary people and made them exceptional by His transforming power.

Does your ministry transform ordinary kids or exalt the “stars?”

Are you hearing your kids?
"In ministry, listening without a growing knowledge of Jesus and the Christian story would have made me an empathetic but impotent spiritual leader. Knowledge of Scripture and theology without listening to those in my care would have rendered me a puffed-up pontificator.

Blending listening with Christian truth allows one to follow Jesus in ministry. In Luke 7, Jesus listens to the faith of the centurion, the doubt of John’s disciples, the self-righteous judgment of the Pharisee and the desperate weeping of the ‘sinful woman.’ After listening, Jesus tells them truth they need to hear. By His grace, we could be doing the same with the flocks entrusted to us if we will listen and study."

Excerpted from Common Grounds, a blog by Glenn Lucke

Children’s Ministry Resources from Awana:

Why Should I Believe the Bible Is True?
Stumped on what to teach? Have we got the resource for you! This comprehensive Bible lesson book provides kid-sized answers to a big-sized question. Each of the 24 lessons includes a thought-provoking introduction, a “look it up” feature, visual ideas and a challenge. It’s never too early to begin building a biblical worldview in children. For early elementary age kids. Click here to purchase.

Rock Solid Kids
What does the Bible have to say about the importance of children’s ministry? A lot! Larry Fowler, Executive Director of Training for Awana offers a balanced Biblical view of bringing up children to become spiritual champions at home, school and church. Click here to purchase.

Rock Solid Teacher – Discover the Joy of Teaching Like Jesus
Learn how to teach like the greatest teacher Himself, Jesus Christ. Learn the teaching principles that Jesus used to create lasting change in those He taught. Includes practical suggestions to fit any teaching situation. Click here to purchase.