Serving

Ages 10+

Teach Your Child to Make a Difference

God blesses and entrusts each of us with gifts, talents, and resources.  Look for opportunities to teach your child to be a good steward of these blessings from the Lord in a way that will honor and glorify Him. 

Serving 

In addition to financial resources, God has also entrusted us with gifts, talents, and time. As believers, we have the great opportunity to worship and glorify God through the spiritual discipline of service. Help your child discover their unique gifts and explore how they might use those gifts to glorify Him. A few simple suggestions include…   

Shared Passion: 

Spend some time talking with your child about the things that interest and concern him or her. It will be more meaningful if you share a passion for the specific area of service. 

Good Fit:

Help your child find good serving options. Serving can be as simple as baking cookies for a homebound neighbor or as extended as a mission trip or meeting a particular need on a regular basis.

Set Expectations: 

Put your child more at ease by explaining what to expect. For example, if visiting a nursing home, explain that he or she may encounter odd sights, sounds, and smells. 

Build Your Relationships: 

Take note of what your child does well while serving. Intentionally encourage him or her by saying you are proud of how they demonstrated a great attitude or area of strength. 

Be Safe: 

Keep a close eye on one another, especially children/teens, if serving in unfamiliar settings.  

Talk About It: 

When you finish serving together, ask questions such as “What kind of difference did you/we make?” “Why was it important to do this project?” “How did it impact those you served?” and “How did it impact you/your family?” 

Pray: 

Take a few minutes to pray, asking God to bless those you served.

Intentionality this Year

  • Schedule and have regular Family Time.
    • Create a habit of worship with your child.
    • Consistently spend time in God’s Word with your child.
    • Pray daily for and with your child.
  • Bless your child daily.
  • Schedule a time to serve together as a family.
© Inkling Innovations 2019, updated Ignite Church 2024.