Picture a pastor who steps up to preach on Sunday morning, fully prepared. He has prayed over the message, diligently studied the Scripture, wrestled with what God is teaching him, and is excited to passionately communicate God’s Word to the people sitting in front of him.

As you listen, you can tell he has prepared. There is a heartfelt, Spirit-led purpose behind his words that is impacting those who have ears to hear the truth. He isn’t scrambling; he is ready. And because he is ready, he can focus on the people God has placed in front of him.

Now think about stepping into a classroom of children. Are we equally prepared? Excited? Ready? God’s Word clearly teaches us that children are just as valuable as the adults, and we know that childhood is a critical time for trusting Christ and developing a biblical worldview.

Each time we walk into a classroom of children, we have been entrusted by God to teach the Bible and share the Gospel with excellence. When we prepare, it shows that we take our calling seriously and that we truly believe that discipling children matters.

So, how should a leader prepare?

1. Pray: Pray by name for the students in your class during the week. Ask God to soften their hearts so they truly come ready to learn and apply God’s Word.
2. Study the Scripture: Open your Bible. Study the lesson’s Scripture and let God speak to you first.
3. Understand the curriculum: Don’t simply read it; know it. Understand the main point, application points, questions, and activities that support the lesson.
4. Bring the Bible to life: Gather visuals, props, and resources to help kids engage and understand the lesson. Think about what you would hear, smell, and experience if you were actually transported back to that specific time period.
5. Review the lesson one more time: Know where you are going with the lesson before you stand in front of the kids. Think through your transitions, questions, activities, and key teaching points. Set a timer and practice so you know whether you need to stretch or shorten the lesson.
6. Arrive early: Set up your classroom. Organize your supplies. Be completely ready before the first child arrives.
7. Be ready to welcome the first child when they arrive: If you are prepared, you will be relaxed, eager, and ready to make every child feel like they are important and valued in your class.

If we believe that God can change a child’s life through His Word, preparation should not be an option. If we believe children are worth discipling, then they are worth our time during the week. And if God has entrusted us with the opportunity to teach His Word, we should approach that responsibility with the care that it deserves.

Preparation takes time. It requires intentionality, discipline, and sacrifice.

We are not just preparing a fun event.
We are not just filling an hour with activities or games.
We are preparing to disciple a generation that desperately needs Jesus!

Kris Smoll is Founder and Executive Director of Discovery Land Global with over 30 years of experience leading children’s ministries at Alliance Church Appleton, empowering leaders and writing curriculum that kids, volunteers, and parents love around the world! - DLGlobal.org