“One Child at a Time” by Felecia Sistrunk.
Children hold a special place in the heart of the Lord. Their innocence, purity, and faith are qualities that the Lord cherishes and encourages in all believers. It is our responsibility to help nurture and guide the generation of today. Often, children are overlooked and underrated, but it takes one child to make one choice that can change their life forever.
My husband and I pastor a small yet flourishing church plant. Early in our journey, we realized that focusing solely on reaching adults isn’t always effective. Sometimes, adults may not be in a space to embrace Christ, transform their lives, or guide their families in truth.
But the children! If we could dedicate ourselves to reaching those little ones, showering them with love, covering them in prayer, and teaching them foundational truths, we would have the opportunity to nurture strong, apostolic families for the future.
Proverbs 22:6 reminds us, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” This duty extends beyond parents to encompass all members of the body of Christ. Embracing this call and viewing each child through this perspective carries immense significance and responsibility. It is truly a blessing to realize that what we nurture in every child will remain with them throughout their lives.
I am a first generation Apostolic. My family discovered their faith when I was a young child, and I was fortunate to be part of a loving church community. My pastor and church family invested in me, rooted me in truth, and helped me understand my life’s purpose. Their support enabled me to lead a life markedly different from the one my parents experienced — a life liberated from addiction, depression, and abuse.
Every day, I encounter numerous children — those who attend school with my kids, those in my neighborhood, and those who walk through the doors of our church. These young ones are longing for a chance to break free from the chains of family struggles. How can I guide them to Christ? What words or actions can I offer to instill a sense of purpose and worth in their lives? How can I help them realize that they are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14) and that even before their birth, God knew them and had a unique purpose planned for them (Jeremiah 1:5)?
Our children and young people are not merely the future; they are the present! Acts 2:17 says, “And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams.” We are indeed living in the last days, where we witness the Lord working through individuals at increasingly younger ages. It only takes one child to become our next missionary, worship leader, pastor, church planter, Sunday school teacher, or youth leader. I urge you to embrace the potential within every child. Never underestimate the incredible gift they represent.
( Information from: Ladies Prayer International Newsletter – UPCI Ladies Ministries – ladiesprayerinternational-aol.com@shared1.ccsend.com )