Parents and Teachers

As a parent or a teacher, you have a very special responsibility. Mom and/or Dad is definitely the number one influence in the life of their children. But today, lets talk a little more specifically to teachers.

You may teach in a preschool, a dayschool, a private or public school, or you may be a Sunday School teacher at your church. You may be a teacher or a helper in a Children's Church. Often times, in a church situation, workers are needed - and they will take anyone they can get. Would they take just anyone to teach the adult class? Would they let just anyone preach the Sunday morning sermon? Something to think about. I believe that your position is very important in God's eyes.

I like to think of children as little sponges. They absorb whatever you give them. Adults should have enough wisdom to go to the Bible, and check if what you are teaching them is correct. But children do not have as much experience and knowledge to draw from. They will take in most of what you put before them. So, I want you to know, that whatever your job is with children, God looks on it as very important. It is no less important than teaching the adults. It is ministry, and that is how God sees it. In Mark 16:15, Jesus said to "go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature." Well, do you think that children fall into the category of "every creature"? Even Jesus said to let the little children come unto Him, and forbid them not. (Matthew 19:13-15) And whoever receives a little child in the name of the Lord, receives Jesus himself. (Matthew 18:5)

Of course, when you finish your class, the kids don't usually shake your hand and say, "that was a great lesson this morning". No, you may not get much recognition for all your work here. People may not even know what is going on. But God knows. And great will be your reward in heaven. God will bless you in many ways. God blesses faithfulness. And God will bless you!

God has used young children on many occasions. Take a look at I Samuel 3, I Samuel 17, 2 Kings 5, and John 6 in your Bible. You need to know that what you are doing is important. Who cares if other people think it is important or not. God thinks it is, and I care about what God thinks, don't you?

So be encouraged today. God has entrusted you with an awesome responsibility. Don't take it lightly. And He will equip you and give you what you need to do the job well. Next time we will talk more about the "how" of teaching your children. Until then, be faithful, and give it all you've got. You may be surprised at how much God can use you!!