Children Are a Sign of God’s Favor
Vic Shober

“Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him,” says Psalm 127:3 (NIV) . . . which means, of course, that children are God’s gift and a sign of his favor.

With such a blessed gift from God comes great responsibility! All of us who comprise the North Texas District of the Assemblies of God are well aware that the most precious heritage we have is the fruit of the family: our boys and girls. We are so blessed with the thousands of sons and daughters that are in the congregations of our 530 NTD churches.

We want the best for every one of them! Thus, through the years we have developed effective ministries to help them grow and glow for our Lord: ministries like Missionettes, Girls Ministries, and Royal Rangers. We have offered training classes through Sunday School and inspirational services through children’s church. We have provided exciting learning experiences through Junior Bible Quiz. These ministries at the local church level have prepared thousands of children for a life lived with the love of the Lord ever with them.

North Texas District Kids Camps are some of the best in the nation. Every summer we see over 2000 boys and girls enjoy the beauty of Lakeview Camp near Maypearl, Texas, as the entire month of June is filled with fun, fellowship, and the fullness of the Spirit from day to day. What a beautiful sight!

During the North Texas District Council in June, 2005, our ministers in session approved the restructuring of our administration to include the Division of Children’s Ministries at the district level. In 2006 we wisely named Duane Swanson as the first chairman of that division. Now in 2007 he is giving excellent leadership as he plans and prepares new horizons for our children to experience.

As a father and a grandfather I am so pleased to see that my children and grandchildren have the best ministries possible through the North Texas District.

Lakeview Camp and Conference Center is still in development as we continue to add to the Breeze Water Park with its water slides and soon to be developed ‘lazy river’ for floating around in inner tubes. The newest building under construction is the NTD Activities Building with a full gymnasium and an indoor swimming pool so that our children can enjoy weekend retreats during the winter months. It will be completed in 2008.

Children, indeed, are the favor of the Lord . . . thank you, God, for showing us such favor with every child You have given to us! NTD

Vic Schober
NTD Superintendent