Next Steps for Kids, Part 3

Over the last couple of weeks we've talked about what a kid needs to do to grow spiritually after they choose to follow Christ. Way too frequently we see baptism as the end of a journey instead of the beginning of one. It's the beginning of a new life on an adventure with God.

So far we've said that kids need to:

1. Start a daily time to hang out with God.
2. Find other believers to do life together.

Next step #3 is to look for opportunities to serve the world. At Southland we call this being "on mission." Our relationship with Jesus and with others isn't a self-serving deal. These relationships prepare us to reach out to a hurting world desperately in need of hope and love. The great thing about serving is that you're never too young to start.

As a parent, one of the best spiritual favors you can do for your child is to help them get over themselves. We all need a healthy dose of that, right? The best way to do that is to get them thinking about the needs of others and what they can to make a difference.

Set the example by looking for opportunities to serve and include your kids in the experience. Service isn't a project. It's a lifestyle. One of the greatest things about Southland is that almost every week you'll hear about new ways to serve and to give to our community and around the world. Include your kids in these projects. Make it a big deal. Demonstrate the joy of making a difference in someone's life.