Feb
11
Written by:
jimwideman
2/11/2010 12:24 AM
I’m so glad I never gave up on children’s ministry. I have had the wonderful opportunity to ministers to children in my twenties, thirties, forties, and now in my fifties. It’s been amazing to see the modern day children’s ministry movement grow into what it is today. I like to tell people I was in children’s ministry before children’s ministry was cool.
There have been a lot of wonderful changes in how churches value children and offer ministry to them. Just this past weekend I was asked the same question I’ve been asked a thousand times. “Why are you still working with kids and not pastoring a church?” It’s simple I’ve prayed about it, I’ve tried to do different things but God always brings me back to what he called me to do in 1977 and that was to “train up sons and daughters for a lifetime of service in a local body of believers.” Have I ever thought about quitting children’s ministry? Sure I have, in the early days I thought about it every Monday. I believe with all my heart the Lord has called me to make a difference in reaching the next generation of young people and to help train this next generation of children’s ministry leaders. Here at World Outreach Church I have the best job in the world because I get to work with children of all ages. (Birth through College) I love making Christ real to kids throughout the whole maturing and discipling process. Has it been an easy journey? No there have been challenges and difficulties along the way but God has proved Himself faithful through every one and He has been more than faithful to lead me and strengthen me through every disappointment, trial and problem.
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5 comment(s) so far...
Re: Power to Last
Good post - for folks coming to read it that are feeling discouraged last month's club lesson would be a great one. "Overcoming Obstacles" - it's a great one.
By SpencerClick on
2/11/2010 6:23 AM
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Re: Power to Last
thanks Spencer...the good news is you can get the club free if you are under 30
By jimwideman on
2/11/2010 11:40 PM
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Re: Power to Last
I think I probably speak for many when I say we're glad you stuck with too. The insight and resources that you make available to others who work with kids and have a passion for saving the souls of children are invaluable. Thank you for all that you have done and continue to do. I think you are inspiration for those who view children's ministry as a life long ministry rather than a step stone to "something more important."
I wish I were still under 30. ;)
By stocksohio on
2/14/2010 6:26 PM
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Re: Power to Last
I think I probably speak for many when I say we're glad you stuck with too. The insight and resources that you make available to others who work with kids and have a passion for saving the souls of children are invaluable. Thank you for all that you have done and continue to do. I think you are inspiration for those who view children's ministry as a life long ministry rather than a step stone to "something more important."
I wish I were still under 30. ;)
By stocksohio on
2/14/2010 6:58 PM
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Re: Power to Last
Wayne I agree with you and the many others who say: "Jim, I am glad you stuck with it." Because of Jim's faithfulness and sticking to it, he has poured into my life from a distance before he even knew me and up close and personal. From these great years I have benefited a ton.
So again, glad you stuck to it Jim! Thanks.
By Todd on
2/17/2010 10:13 AM
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