Discouragement can overshadow anyone dedicated to serving others, especially those in ministry. In children’s ministry, this burden can feel especially heavy, challenging our confidence, patience, and hope. This diminished passion often stems from unmet expectations or feelings of falling short. Discouragement is more than just feeling down; it can weaken our purpose, dissolve our focus, and drain our energy.

Discouragement entered the world with sin as part of humanity’s fall and became a tool the enemy uses to hold us back from the purpose God has called us to. Satan uses discouragement to cloud our minds, weaken our will, and overwhelm our emotions. Yet God’s Word equips us with powerful truths to overcome these attacks, restoring hope and energy to fulfill our calling. Let’s look at some common causes of discouragement in children’s ministry:

• Low Attendance or Engagement: Children’s ministry leaders pour their hearts into planning lessons, activities, and events, only to see a small turnout—or none at all. This can lead to feelings of insignificance or doubt.

• Lack of Support or Resources: Ministry leaders often feel they lack the volunteers, budget, or resources they need, creating a sense of being undervalued or overburdened.

• Unseen or Unappreciated Efforts: Much of children’s ministry is behind the scenes, and it’s easy to feel unappreciated when there’s little visible acknowledgment of the time and energy invested.

Now, let’s examine the thoughts, desires, and emotions that these discouragements can bring and how to replace them with God’s truth.

Discouragement #1: Low Attendance or Engagement

• Thought (Belief): “What I’m doing isn’t making a difference.”

• Will (Desire): “I just want to give up and not waste my time.”

• Emotion (Feeling): Frustration, doubt, and a sense of failure.

Strategy for Defeating This Discouragement: Remind yourself of the truth that God values every individual. In Matthew 18:12, Jesus speaks of the shepherd leaving the ninety-nine for one lost sheep. God’s perspective of value is different from ours. Embrace Joshua 1:9, which says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Hold tight to the truth that you are partnering with God’s work, and every effort is valuable, even if unseen.

Discouragement #2: Lack of Support or Resources

• Thought (Belief): “Volunteers keep calling out. Do they not care?”

• Will (Desire): “I wish someone would recognize this is a team effort. We need help!”

• Emotion (Feeling): Overwhelmed, isolated, and burdened.

Strategy for Defeating This Discouragement: Lean on the truth that God equips those He calls. Philippians 4:19 assures us, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” Instead of focusing on what is lacking, focus on what God has already provided, trusting He will send what you need in His timing. Pray specifically for God to open the hearts of others to support the ministry and help you recognize new ways to use the resources you do have.

Discouragement #3: Unseen or Unappreciated Efforts

• Thought (Belief): “No one notices all I do for these children and families.”

• Will (Desire): “I need validation from others to feel valued.”

• Emotion (Feeling): Invisible, disheartened, and taken for granted.

Strategy for Defeating This Discouragement: Shift your focus from seeking earthly recognition to remembering that God sees every effort. Hebrews 6:10 says, “God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them.” When discouragement whispers that your work is unseen, hold on to the truth that God sees and values it all. Every smile, lesson, and prayer matters to Him.

Staying Anchored in Truth

Defeating discouragement requires standing on God’s Word and choosing His truth over our emotions. It’s natural to feel disheartened at times, but we don’t have to let these feelings dictate our actions or attitudes. God’s truth and presence are constant and unwavering. When discouragement comes, ask God to remind you of His promises. He is with you, guiding you, and preparing you for each challenge.

Let Joshua 1:9 be a reminder of God’s unwavering presence and encouragement: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Meditate on this verse, committing it to heart. Discouragement may try to dissolve your enthusiasm, but God’s Word strengthens your purpose and passion.

A Prayer for the Discouraged Children’s Ministry Leader

“Lord, I come before You with a heart that sometimes feels weary and discouraged. I thank You for calling me to serve Your precious children. When I feel invisible, remind me that You see me. When I feel alone, remind me that You are with me. Help me to hold tightly to Your promises and to remember that You will provide the strength I need for every moment. Restore my joy, Lord, and give me courage and wisdom to continue faithfully. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Remember, dear children’s ministry leader, God sees you, values your work, and is with you in every moment. Stand firm in His promises, knowing that what you do for His kingdom is never in vain.

​Angela Marks is a passionate children’s ministry leader with 12 years of experience serving in various churches and ministries. She resides in Fayetteville, North Carolina where she has yielded to the call of reaching young people inside and outside the walls of the church.