"Children Don’t Have a Junior Holy Spirit" is a phrase I often emphasize when discussing the importance of teaching, training, and leading children in God’s presence. This truth is rooted in the biblical account of Matthew 19:13-15, where parents brought their children to Jesus, recognizing the significance of placing them in His presence. Jesus welcomed the children, rebuking His disciples who tried to hinder them, and declared, “Let the children come to me and do not hinder them, for such is the Kingdom of Heaven.”

This passage highlights the spiritual potential within children. They don’t have a lesser version of the Holy Spirit because they don’t face lesser challenges. The spiritual battles they encounter are real, and as leaders, we are called to guide and protect them with the same intentionality we would give adults.

In Matthew 16:18, Jesus tells Peter, “And on this rock, I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Children don’t fight junior devils; they face the same spiritual opposition as adults. The enemy sees children as prime targets, and it is our responsibility to answer the call to serve and lead them. This is not just a task but a clarion call to shepherd the flock that God has placed before us.

As we take up this mantle, we must recognize the importance of seeing children as spiritual beings who need Jesus, His salvation, and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. Just as Jesus instructed Peter three times to “feed my lambs” in John 21, we too are called to nurture and care for the spiritual well-being of the children entrusted to us.

Practical Steps in Serving Our Flock

Caring for the Flock – Whether your church has one child or thirty, you have a flock to care for. It’s crucial to connect with parents, understand the unique needs of each child, and prepare lessons that cater to those needs. Be present, make phone calls, send cards, and pray diligently for the children. Your approach should be gentle, caring, and rooted in love.

Watching Over the Flock – The enemy seeks to devour our children, so we must be vigilant in prayer and protection. Create a prayer list for each child, understanding their struggles and challenges. Engage with them about their interests, such as video games or TV shows, to better understand how the enemy might be trying to influence them. Equip children with the tools to defeat the enemy, such as putting on the armor of God and strengthening their faith.

Being Eager to Serve God – Show up for your flock with enthusiasm and a spirit of excellence. Your eagerness to serve God will inspire the children to do the same. Prepare your lessons with excitement and create opportunities for children to experience God’s presence. When children see your passion for serving God, it sparks a fire within them to pursue their relationship with Christ with the same fervor.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

We are not alone in this journey of shepherding children. The Holy Spirit empowers us, intercedes for us, and guides us as we lead. Whether you are new to children’s ministry or a seasoned veteran, the Holy Spirit is your strength and support. As we continue to learn and grow in our roles, we will see our flocks of children grow from lambs to sheep, and though our methods may change, the transformative power of the Gospel remains the same.

In closing, remember that the work we do in children’s ministry has eternal significance. By nurturing the spiritual growth of the children in our care, we are laying the foundation for a lifetime of righteous and faithful living in relationship with the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ. Let us embrace this calling with joy, knowing that we have the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us every step of the way.

​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.