If I could sit across from a new children’s ministry leader and offer one piece of advice, it would be this: take care of your soul. Ministry isn’t sustained by talent, strategy, or passion alone. It’s sustained by the quiet, consistent work of walking with Jesus. These 12 commitments are born out of that truth. They help me stay inwardly healthy so I can lead with lasting impact.
Covenant Commitment #4:
I will reach out relationally each day to at least one friend, relative or volunteer to encourage them so people are always put first.
Ministry isn’t just about tasks—it’s about people. And the longer you serve, the easier it becomes to focus on checklists instead of connections. But behind every event, every lesson, and every role is a person made in God’s image who needs encouragement, support, and care.
Hebrews 10:24 tells us, “Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”Encouragement isn’t accidental—it’s intentional. It requires thought. And it’s often the simplest words that carry the most impact.
When you pause each day to reach out to just one person—whether it’s a quick text to a volunteer, a kind comment to a co-worker, a thank-you note to a parent, or a check-in call to a friend—you’re building a culture of value and care. You’re reminding others they’re seen, loved, and not alone.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 echoes this heart: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” Sometimes encouragement is a compliment. Sometimes it’s a listening ear. Sometimes it’s saying, “I noticed,” or “You matter,” or “I prayed for you today.” These tiny moments can shift someone’s entire day—or even their ministry.
And Galatians 6:2 reminds us, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” That can’t happen unless we pause long enough to see the burdens others are carrying. If all we do is rush from task to task, we miss the divine interruptions that often matter most.
This covenant isn’t about adding one more thing to your list. It’s about slowing down to put people before programs. Reaching out doesn’t have to be dramatic or time-consuming. A 30-second encouragement can bear eternal fruit.
So every day, look around and ask, “Lord, who can I lift up today?” Then follow through. One person. One word. One connection.
You never know how much someone needs it until you take the time to ask—or say it.
Kidmin Covenant #5 – “I will teach from and with a Bible so my students know and see the source of my teaching.”
We’ll talk about why the most powerful teaching tool you have is the Word itself—visible, opened, and alive.
