Navigating the Summer Seasons of Ministry: Work Hard, Trust Harder

As the summer months approach, many children's ministry leaders face a season of change and potential uncertainty. Volunteers take vacations, kids’ schedules shift, and the usual routines of ministry feel like they’re slipping away. It can be easy to get discouraged when the ministry seems to slow down, and you might find yourself wondering how to keep the momentum going. In addition to this, others may feel a bit of anxiety creeping in—especially with Vacation Bible School on the horizon. With VBS added to the mix, it can feel like the pressure is mounting, leaving you feeling like you’re holding it all together by a thread.

But let me encourage you today: Work Hard, Trust Harder.

The summer season may look different, but it's not without purpose. This is a time to pause, reflect, and realign your ministry for the upcoming months. It’s an opportunity to work hard on the foundation and trust God even harder to bring about the growth He has planned. So as you navigate through these summer months, here are a few tips to keep your ministry thriving:

1. Adjust Your Expectations

Understand that the rhythm of summer is different. Some of your volunteers might be on vacation, and attendance may be lower. This doesn’t mean you’re not doing meaningful work. It’s a chance to recharge, reflect, and reset. Embrace the slower pace and be patient with yourself and your team.

2. Plan Ahead for the Fall

While summer gives some ministries a little more flexibility, use it wisely by planning for the upcoming school year. Take time to reflect on the successes of the past year, and evaluate areas for growth. Now’s the time to lay the groundwork for new programs, recruit volunteers, and develop your digital media strategy. The work you do now will pay off when the season picks back up.

3. Engage Your Volunteers in New Ways

Summer is a great time to connect with your volunteers in different ways. Send encouraging messages or even host a fun, low-key summer gathering. Remind them of their value and how their service impacts children’s lives. Your team’s morale is crucial during this time, so invest in their spiritual and emotional well-being.

4. Keep the Vision in Front of You

While summer might feel like a season of rest, it’s also an opportunity to revisit your mission and vision. Remind yourself of the larger purpose of children’s ministry — you are shaping the next generation to know, love, and serve Jesus. No matter how small the moment, it matters in the grand scheme of eternity.

5. Trust God in Every Season

Above all, the most important thing you can do is to trust God. When the stress of VBS and the summer months builds, lean on His promises. He will equip you for the tasks at hand, and He will give you wisdom when you need it most. When things feel uncertain or volunteers are scattered, remember that God is still in control. Trust Him to bring the right people at the right time. Your labor is not in vain, and God is faithful to provide the strength and resources you need. Rest in His presence, knowing that He is working even when you can’t see it.

As you continue working hard this summer, trust even harder that God will provide what’s needed to accomplish the work He’s set before you. Whether you’re in the midst of planning or waiting for the season to pick back up, remember that God’s timing is perfect, and He sees the behind-the-scenes effort you’re putting in. Keep trusting that He is faithful to guide you every step of the way.

You are doing more than just running a program — you are shaping hearts, building relationships, and pointing children to the One who never changes, even when the seasons do. Keep going, and trust that the seeds you’re planting now will bear fruit in ways you may not yet see.

Let’s trust God through it all and lean on His strength to continue the good work He’s called us to.