Because these peer relationships have a huge impact on kids’ choices, behaviors, and beliefs, we need to not only pray for our children to find great friends but also teach them how to form and maintain positive relationships.

In children’s ministry, relationships are a key part of spiritual development. You point kids toward a living and growing relationship with Jesus. You also play an important role in nurturing peer relationships at church.

If we make the effort to build relationships at home, it will pay off in the future. Things won’t always be perfect, but they will be healthier, and we will no doubt build a stronger foundation for the relationships we want to have in the future.

If we’re spending all our time doing things and managing programs, we’re not doing the relational ministry that truly transforms lives. To make time and space for building relationships, here are four principles to consider.

This month, we hope to point you and the families you lead to helpful resources as we all seek to encourage one another in life. Relationships can be hard, both in and out of the home, and we all need tools and resources to help us navigate the difficulties that arise with friends, family, co-workers, and others.

There are many obstacles that we could name that have the potential to get in the way of us prioritizing our personal connection with the Lord, but these two probably affect us the most: time and unrealistic expectations.