Vacation Bible school (aka VBS) is something that many Christians often dread, even though they know how important it is for introducing children to the gospel. I realize that helping with VBS requires a significant amount of time and energy, but it doesn’t have to be draining and discouraging. If you want to have the best VBS ever, here are five things to keep in mind:
1. Help with a group or an area that you enjoy.
VBS won’t be easy if you help in a group or an area that you dislike, so find a group or an area to help with that you enjoy. For example, if you would rather play freeze tag than tell Bible stories, help with games. If would rather hang out with preschoolers than third graders, lead a group of younger kids rather than a group of older kids.
2. Try to engage with the kids.
Be aware of the children at VBS who are eager to learn the Bible stories and have questions about what they’re learning. Engage with them in conversation, and find out more about them. Make yourself available so that they know they can talk to you if they have questions.
3. Don’t force anyone to follow Jesus.
Ultimately, the Holy Spirit works in the hearts of nonbelievers. You can’t force kids at VBS to accept Christ as their Savior because they need to make that decision. Explain what salvation is, and encourage children to consider following Jesus. But let the Holy Spirit convict them in His timing.
4. Always wear a smile.
Even if your job has been really hard lately or if you’re missing an event with your friends to help at VBS, maintain a positive attitude during the week. Enthusiasm is contagious, and it’s exactly what the kids at VBS need. If you have a negative attitude at VBS, they’ll probably notice—and they’ll probably try to avoid being around you.
5. Remember that you’re ultimately serving the Lord.
VBS can be hard—especially when the kids misbehave. I know that it’s hard to be patient when they’re loud or energetic or rude. But ultimately, you’re not there to make everyone happy. You’re there to serve God! Just focus on loving the kids well and pointing them to Him.
And they were bringing children to Him so that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw this, He was indignant and said to them, “Permit the children to come to Me; do not hinder them; for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all.” (Mark 10:13-15 NASB1995)
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