In just a few weeks, I will be heading to summer camp with kids from our church.
We will be at summer camp for 5 days. It's a significant amount of time.
So why am I going? That's a long time to be away from my family.
I am going because I am a believer in kids' camp. Here are 5 reasons why I take kids to camp.
It helps kids get away from the noise.
Kids are constantly bombarded with the noise of social media, video games, music, TV, internet, and other means of messaging. Combine all of these and you get children who have little to no quiet time.
It can be a challenge as the bombardment of noise drowns out the gentle whispers of the Holy Spirit. But when kids are at camp...away from all of the noise...they can better hear from God. They can experience the presence of God who says...
Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10.
Today's kids have a hard time with periods of silence. Unplugging is not easy. Take away their cell phone and they get anxiety. But when they go to camp, they have the opportunity (even though they may not like it at first) to unplug. When this happens, it opens the door for God to do a big work in their life.
It deepens their relationships.
Time deepens relationships. At camp, kids get to spend more time with each other and their counselors. This helps them deepen these relationships. Discipleship happens through relationships. Deeper relationships bud forth into kids developing a deeper walk with God.
Kids learn about teamwork.
At camp, kids learn they weren't meant to do life alone. Through games, activities, discussions, and teaching, they learn how to cooperate and get along with others.
It helps kids grow in their faith.
Chapel. Quiet times with God. Bible study. Worship. Prayer times. All of these elements help kids significantly grow in their faith.
Life changing spiritual decisions are often made at camp.
It helps kids with resiliency.
Kids learn how to persevere. Kids learn how to be brave. Kids learn how to not give up. These life skills will help kids as they enter their teen years.
Your turn.
Are you taking the kids in your ministry to camp this year? Why or why not?
What do you think about summer camp?
Share your comments in the comment section below.
