Fuel Your Ministry Through Reading: 5 Ways Books Can Grow Your Leadership

In the busyness of children’s ministry, it's easy to get caught in the cycle of lesson prep, classroom management, and Sunday-after-Sunday responsibilities. But if you want to lead with fresh vision, strong faith, and lasting impact—you need to be filled too.

Reading is one of the most powerful (and often overlooked) ways to fuel your ministry. Whether it’s a devotional, a leadership book, or a story that sparks new ideas, good books breathe new life into weary hearts and give us tools to serve better.

Here are 5 reasons why reading can help you grow in ministry and leadership:

1. Reading Reignites Your Passion

It’s easy to fall into routines and lose sight of why you started in ministry. A great book can remind you of your calling, refocus your heart on the mission, and stir up fresh excitement for serving kids and families.

2. Reading Builds Biblical and Practical Wisdom

Books written by experienced ministry leaders offer real-world insight into things like volunteer training, spiritual growth, behavior management, and creative teaching methods. Instead of reinventing the wheel, you can learn from others who’ve walked the path before you.

3. Reading Develops Leadership Skills

Children’s ministry is more than just storytelling and snack time—it’s leadership. Whether you're managing a team, mentoring volunteers, or casting vision, leadership is essential. Reading helps you grow in confidence, communication, and clarity as a leader.

4. Reading Encourages Personal Growth

Healthy ministry begins with a healthy leader. Books on personal development, spiritual disciplines, and emotional wellness can help you grow in areas that overflow into your ministry. You can’t pour out what you haven’t filled up! Reminder...my favorite things to tell volunteers: we minister out of our overflow!

5. Reading Sparks New Ideas

If your creativity has hit a wall, reading can unlock fresh ideas! From object lessons to program planning, a simple quote or chapter can ignite an entirely new direction for your ministry.

🎁 Ready to Start Reading? Grab the Free Resource!

I created a free printable just for you:
Fuel Your Ministry: Top Picks to Inspire, Equip, and Lead
This free download includes:

✅ 20 KidMin book recommendations
✅ A printable reading tracker to log your progress, rate each book, and check them off as you go
✅ A great tool for personal growth or team development

👉 Click here to download your free KidMin book list + tracker now!

Let’s keep learning and growing—our kids deserve leaders who are constantly being poured into too.

Cheering you on! :D
Sara Vojtasek