Let’s be real — ministry can be exhausting. It’s easy to slip into survival mode, chasing tasks and putting out fires. That’s why I created this covenant — not to add more pressure, but to anchor myself in what matters most. These commitments help me focus, refuel, and realign. They remind me that before I lead others well, I have to walk closely with Jesus. Inward health leads to outward fruit.
Covenant Commitment #6:
I will be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.
If there’s a verse that should be framed in every children’s ministry office, it’s James 1:19: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” In the chaos of check-in, the miscommunication with a volunteer, the challenging child who tests your patience, or the well-meaning parent with lots of “suggestions,” this verse is a lifeline.
Listening is more than a ministry skill — it’s a spiritual posture. When we slow down to really hear others, we reflect the heart of Jesus. He didn’t rush conversations. He wasn’t quick to interrupt. He had compassion because He was present.
Proverbs 15:1 adds, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” How often have we escalated a situation simply by reacting too quickly? When we’re in a hurry or under stress, our responses get sharper, shorter, and sometimes unnecessarily defensive. But gentleness diffuses tension, and listening creates space for peace.
This applies to kids too. Sometimes their behavior is a cry for attention, not a challenge to authority. Slowing down to listen — even for a minute — can be the key to understanding what’s really going on. That pause before speaking gives the Holy Spirit time to guide our words, our tone, and our actions.
Ecclesiastes 5:2 gives us this reminder: “Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God.” If we’re advised to slow down even when talking to God, how much more with others?
Being slow to anger doesn’t mean we avoid hard conversations. It means we engage with a calm spirit, guided by truth and grace. In leadership, people will frustrate us. Misunderstandings will happen. Expectations will be unmet. But responding with patience shows that we’re grounded in something deeper than emotion.
In practice, this might look like taking a deep breath before replying to an email that rubs you the wrong way. It might mean actively listening to a volunteer vent without jumping in to fix it. Or choosing to ask clarifying questions instead of assuming intent.
In the heat of ministry, reacting is easy. But responding — thoughtfully, prayerfully, patiently — that’s the mark of a leader who walks with God.
Coming Next Week: Kidmin Covenant #7 – “I will maintain a teachable spirit and always be eager to learn, grow and invite correction and suggestions.”
We’ll talk about the power of staying humble, open, and always ready to grow – no matter how long you’ve been in ministry.
