This time of year, activities in Christian schools, Sunday schools, CCD classes, choirs, Awana, and Bible clubs begin winding to a close. In a few weeks, the children and youth you have worked with for multiple weeks, months, or perhaps even years will move on—to a different class, school, or community.
Perhaps one of the most meaningful gifts you can give the young people under your care is the gift of affirmation—of sharing your observations about their God-given giftedness and the spiritual fruit you see maturing in their lives. Whether you send a text, mail a postcard, write a personal note on the inside cover of a new Bible, fill out a certificate of thanks, or express your thoughts in some other way, here are 25 suggestions to get you started. Adapt and personalize them as you see fit:
- I’m glad Jesus brought us together, (name)! Knowing you has encouraged my faith.
- Thanks for asking so many good questions, (name). You’ve challenged me in a good way, and I thank God for you.
- God has used you to bless me this year, (name)! I’m thanking Him for you today.
- The Holy Spirit is growing such kindness in you, (name). You’re becoming more like Jesus, and I’m glad!
- Every time I think about you, (name), I think about the joy you show. Jesus has blessed me through you.
- Time after time, (name), I’ve seen your eagerness to help others. I praise our Savior for the many ways you’re becoming more like Him.
- (Name), I so appreciate the way your prayers reflect the trust you have in our Lord Jesus. It has encouraged me in my own prayers.
- I can always count on you to help me, (name). Thanks for all the many ways you’ve brought joy to my heart in these past months.
- Way to go, (name)! Your friendship has brought joy to many people in our group this year. We thank Jesus for you!
- You’re quiet, (name), but you’re always there when anyone needs a friend to care or someone to pray for them. I am thanking Jesus for you today!
- Your jokes leave me laughing out loud, (name)! Thanks for sharing your joy in the Lord with the rest of our group!
- Wow, (name), I can see the Holy Spirit cultivating true leadership gifts in you! What a gift you are to our group and to me!
- Over this past year, (name), I’ve seen many of God’s gifts growing in you—especially musical gifts! Thanks for sharing your abilities with us!
- You are becoming quite a writer, (name)! I’m so pleased I could watch this happen, and I’m praying that Jesus continues to use your talents to honor Him and help His people.
- You’re becoming quite an athlete, (name). But what’s even better is that your sportsmanship is growing, too. Thanks for letting Jesus’ love shine through your words and actions.
- It’s such a joy to have you in our group, (name). Your quiet strength has encouraged me. I see Jesus in you—and I thank Him for that!
- You think about deep and important things, (name). I’ve learned a lot from you, and I thank Jesus for bringing you across my path!
- I always smile, (name), when I see you walk in the door, because I know my day is brighter when you’re around. Jesus’ love shines warmly through you. Stay close to Him always.
- God gave you quite a giggle, (name)! Thanks for making our group a happier place to be. Your joy reminds me how much Jesus loves us!
- Whenever I think of you, (name), I remember your gentleness. Jesus has made you a good friend to many in our group—and to me. I’m thinking Him for you today!
- Of all the groups in all the world, (name), Jesus brought you to ours. I’m so glad! May He continue to bless you and to bless others through you in the years ahead.
- If I had a dollar for every smile you’ve brought to my face this past year, (name), I’d be rich! Thanks for letting Jesus use you to bring so much encouragement into the lives of so many people!
- I can’t thank Jesus enough, (name), for all I’ve learned because you were in this group! Thanks for your questions, your comments, and for the many ways you share your faith.
- You smile lights up a room, (name)! Thanks for sharing the hope and joy Jesus brings us—and just for being you!
- As I thank Jesus for you, (name), your artistic abilities leap to mind! God has placed many creative thoughts and abilities in you. I pray that He will cultivate them and then use them for your good and His glory.
You are welcome to copy this article for one-time use in your organization as long as you will receive no monetary benefit from it. Please include the copyright line printed below and submit an actual copy of use to CTA, attention Editorial Coordinator.
Used with permission grant #041712. © 2012 CTA, Inc. No duplication of this article is allowed without the express written consent of CTA, PO Box 1205, Fenton, MO 63026-1205. www.CTAinc.com.