Most of us have been there when flying with a child. You're settled in your seat finally after getting your kiddo settled with snacks and headphones and their favorite stuffy, and the flight attendant stops by and says, “In the event of an emergency, remember to put on your own mask first before helping them with theirs.” It’s a simple but powerful piece of advice that ensures we’re equipped to help those around us when we’re in a crisis. But have you ever stopped to think about how this advice applies to your spiritual life, and your ministry? As parents, teachers, and ministry leaders, we often feel the weight of caring for others, but we can’t pour from an empty cup. We need to nourish our own souls before we can faithfully teach others the truths of the gospel, especially the children we love and serve.
In children’s ministry, we have the incredible privilege of sharing God’s Word with little hearts. But the truth is, it’s easy to get so caught up in planning, teaching, and serving that we forget to take the time to sit at Jesus’ feet ourselves. When life gets busy—whether it’s balancing ministry, work, or home life—it can feel like there’s no time left to spend in God’s Word. But just as the flight attendant reminds us to put on our masks first, we need to prioritize feeding our own souls so we can pour out the love and truth of God’s Word to the children we serve.
Here are five simple, yet practical tips for how to prioritize spending time in God’s Word—even when life feels overwhelmingly busy:
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Start Small, but Start – Don’t feel the pressure to dive into long Bible study sessions right away. Even 5 minutes a day can make a big difference. Start with a few verses (like a Psalm) and gradually build it into a regular habit.
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Create a Routine – Set aside a consistent time each day for Bible reading, whether it’s first thing in the morning, listen in the car, or during your kid's nap time. Find a time that works for you, and guard it. Just like we schedule other important activities, make time for God’s Word non-negotiable.
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Use Technology to Your Advantage – If finding time to sit with your Bible feels impossible, use Bible apps, podcasts, or audio Bibles to listen during your commute, while you do housework, or during walks. Technology can help you stay connected to Scripture even on the busiest of days.
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Incorporate Scripture into Daily Life – If you’re not able to sit down for long study sessions, try to incorporate Scripture into everyday tasks. Meditate on a verse while washing dishes, or reflect on a passage during your drive. Let God’s Word saturate your day, even in small moments.
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Make It a Family Affair – If you're a parent, bring your kids into your time with God. Share what you’re learning with them, even in simple ways. This not only helps you stay accountable but also models the importance of daily time in God’s Word for your children.
Remember, ministry can be demanding, and we often pour so much of ourselves into others. But we must keep in mind that our spiritual well-being is the foundation of everything we do. As we prioritize time with God, we’ll be better equipped to share His love and truths with the next generation. Just as putting on your mask first ensures you can help others in an emergency, taking care of your own soul ensures that you can pour into others—whether in the classroom, at home, or in the community. So, take a deep breath, make the time, and remember that you cannot give what you don’t have. Put on your mask first, and let God fill you with the life-giving truth of His Word.
And, as a reminder that I too feel the importance of this, all future Big Truth for Young Hearts lessons will include a brief devotional thought for you as the teacher or ministry leader.