Every child needs boundaries. Children are naturally curious and will get into every and anything - around the house, the yard, at school or at church.  Set those boundaries as they teach the child what is acceptable behavior and what is not acceptable behavior.

Discipline is love as you will save that child from a lot of headaches when he or she grows up. If you do not discipline them while they are young and into their teen years, they will be disciplined by the STATE. Jails are filled with spoilt children who were never got disciplined because 'he or she is only a child'. These children were never taught how  to be satisfied with what parents could actually afford. Children who were never taught to keep their little hands to themselves and respect others or appreciate what they have or to be grateful for what they have, most times end up being told when to get up and go to bed and to eat by the STATE. The STATE becomes the parent and has to discipline them.

Disciplining children teaches them to be responsible persons, to respect authority, respect their parents and elders, to respect life and to be grateful for the little things and those things that their parents give to them.  Manners and attitude are learned. No one is born with them.  Attitude most times equals altitude. You have to bend the tree while it is young for when it is old, its path you can no longer influence.

Every praise is due our God by Hezekiah Walker is a powerful song that brings singing and dancing together. As Children's Ministers we must be careful to have a time of praise and worship before ministering to ensure we are in tune with what God is doing and wishes us to do in our teaching session to the littlest of saints.

God looked down from heaven and saw that the earth needed something that he could deposit in you. He looked for a receptive couple that would nurture and guide you toward your purpose. A couple that would daily pray over you, scold and discipline you when necessary, but always love and cherish you. God found the perfect couple - one who had been praying for years for a child. You came to earth with a purpose on his mind.

Through the ages, he watched you grow and challenge the status quo. You became bold and confident as you moved to the place where destined you to be. It was not an easy road as along the way you lost mom and dad. They had done their part and now you had to do your part. It was lonely, sometimes, but dad always said - 'sometimes you will stand alone because you will not compromise'.

Convinced you had a gift to give to my generation, you blazed a path forward, speaking out against wrong no matter who initiated the problems. You fought like a lion for righteousness and held up a standard of truth. Many saw the error of their ways and turned back to God. As time went by you grew old and you awaited the day of your recall for you had fought a good fight, you kept the faith and a crown of glory will be your reward but did you accomplished your purpose?

Deep within you hear a voice - purpose accomplished. You have fought long and valiantly. You followed your passion which led you to your purpose and destiny. You have been a beacon of light to your generation drawing many back to God. You smiled to yourself and wondered about those that helped you mature, that helped your parents to teach you right from wrong and God's word. Your children's church ministers, your educational teachers, Scouts troop leaders. You can see their surprised faces as they accept their heavenly rewards impacted by their impact on your life.



NB - Children's Ministers you do not know who you have in your care. Teach the children well for they may possess the answer to a vexing problem or be the answer to a leadership vacuum in your nation.

Cassandra Nottage