Welcome to Karl Bastian's Blog
Ministry Needs More Hawaiian Hippos

Stand Out for Jesus! Let’s face it—ministry can sometimes start to feel like a slow-moving hippo, just plodding along week after week. Same lessons. Same snacks. Same games. You love the kids, but deep down you wonder: Is this really making an impact? Now picture that hippo again… but this time, he’s rocking a loud, colorful Hawaiian shirt. Suddenly, he’s not just blending in—he’s standing out. He’s turning heads. He’s getting noticed. And not for vanity’s sake, but because he’s embracing something different. That’s what we need in children’s ministry. It’s easy to look at what other churches are...
Kidmin Covenant #3: God-Focused Direction

Ministry to children is sacred work. It requires not only biblical knowledge and creative energy but also a life deeply rooted in Christ. The health of a ministry begins with the health of its leader. Therefore, I commit to being inwardly healthy so that I may be outwardly fruitful. This covenant represents my dedication to spiritual disciplines, relational integrity, and godly leadership. Anchored in Scripture and shaped by grace, these 12 commitments will help ensure that my life and ministry bring glory to God and lasting impact to those I serve. Covenant Commitment #3: I will submit my daily plans...
Kidmin Covenant #2: The Foundation of God’s Word

I didn’t step into ministry for applause or approval, but because I was called by God to love and lead His children. That calling demands more than skill—it requires a healthy soul, daily surrender, and a deep commitment to growth. This covenant reflects my desire to be inwardly healthy so I can be outwardly fruitful. It’s a declaration that before I teach, I will listen; before I lead, I will follow; and before I serve others, I will spend time with the One I serve. These 12 commitments will guide me in pursuing a ministry that truly pleases the Lord....
Kidmin Covenant #1: The Priority of Prayer

As a children’s ministry leader, I recognize the incredible privilege and responsibility of shaping young hearts for Jesus. I cannot do this in my own strength. That’s why I commit to a daily walk with God that fuels both my personal life and public ministry. This covenant outlines the values and habits I strive to live by—rooted in Scripture, empowered by grace, and aimed at pleasing the Lord above all. My desire is to be inwardly healthy so that I can be outwardly fruitful. These 12 commitments are intentional choices to keep my heart soft, my hands diligent, and my...
The Kidmin Covenant

My Kidmin Covenant 12 Commitments for a Ministry that Pleases the Lord A new Commitment released each week! Tune in for more! Subcribe to Pastor Karl’s Ministry Tips newsletter for updates! Click the links as each commitment is added. 1. I will start each day in prayer—first for my own walk with God, then for my family, and finally for my ministry. Mark 1:35 – “Very early in the morning… Jesus got up… and prayed.” Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer… present your requests to God.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17 – “Pray without ceasing.”...
Supporting Kids with Special Needs in Your Children’s Ministry

Every week in our children’s ministry, we are entrusted with the incredible privilege of loving and leading God’s precious children. Each one is uniquely created by God, and every child matters. Jesus made that clear when He said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14). At The Outpost, our goal is for every child to feel safe, loved, and welcomed — and that includes those who may need a little extra care and support due to special needs or behavior challenges. But as...