When I began this Revolution: Settling for Nothing Less Than a Joel 2 Generation blog series, I wanted to challenge those involved in children’s ministry to leave their current way of ministering to children and dare to take what perhaps might be previously uncharted steps so that they can see the “your” in Joel’s prophesy come to pass in their ministry and children.
“And it shall come to pass afterward,
that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh;
and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy …”
Joel 2:28
For many, the insights shared have called for bold, uncomfortable changes. I can appreciate the fact that doing things that you have never done before can be unnerving and scary. These insights have called for actions not taught in most children’s ministry or Sunday school conferences. Which brings me to one of the most gutsy actions that will help usher in a mighty outpouring of God’s Spirit.
Yep, you read it correctly. Announce coming attractions. This insight won’t be one that requires a lot of explanation. It’s really quite simple. I am challenging you to hear from God about what is to be ministered and then confidently use your voice at the beginning of the service/class to announce/foretell what the Holy Spirit will do during that service. Announcing coming attractions is merely revealing the Father’s heart and intended purpose for your service.
Was I correct when I told you that this insight will be gutsy? Perhaps too gutsy for some because of the fear that comes with the “what if this doesn’t happen” thoughts. I’ll readily admit that this isn’t for the faint at heart. But, I remind you that God is a God who says what He means and means what He says. You can rest assured that the Father would not give you a message and not have an intended purpose for that message. If the Father would tell you to minister on the subject of healing, wouldn’t He intend for boys and girls to be healed or learn how to pray for others to be healed? If He told you to teach/preach about salvation, wouldn’t He intend for children to become born again?
What will happen in doing this? Making this declaration will …
* Build faith in those ministering. (Remember, faith comes by hearing.)
* Create anticipation in the children for what God will do.
* Serve Satan notice that his territory is about to be powerfully invaded.
Voice the heart and intent of God. The supernatural is awaiting the sound of your voice.
Have these insights been a blessing? Have they challenged you? Next week, the final blog post in this series Ministry Revolution Insight #11 will be The Exponential Explosion Factor.
