The Joy of Discipling Nieces and Nephews

Discipling nieces and nephews is one of the most rewarding and joyful responsibilities God has entrusted to me. Through church services, Sunday lunches, movie nights, and cheering at sports games, I have learned that discipleship happens in the small, meaningful moments. This blog summarizes the lessons I’ve shared in this series and reflects on how these three incredible kids have become the greatest blessings in my life.

A heartwarming outdoor scene of a bald, chubby uncle standing across the road, watching his niece and two nephews play in the yard. The niece, wearing glasses and an orange and black cheerleader outfit, is doing a cartwheel, while the two nephews, in matching orange and black football jerseys, play football. — A proud uncle watches as his niece and nephews enjoy childhood moments in the yard.

The Power of Presence: Showing Up Changes Lives

In Part 4, we explored how simply being present makes a difference. Whether it’s clapping at a choir concert, sitting in a church pew while my oldest nephew serves with a smile, or cheering from the stands at a football game, presence speaks louder than words. Discipling nieces and nephews starts with showing up.

“Where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” (Matthew 18:20, NLT)

A cheerful outdoor picnic scene with a bald, chubby uncle sitting with his niece and two nephews at a picnic table. The niece, wearing glasses and smiling, enjoys a hamburger and fries. The two nephews eat their meals, including ice cream sundaes, with a colorful playground in the background. — Family time at the park: burgers, fries, and sweet moments.

Lunch After Church: Building Bonds Over Burgers

Sunday lunch isn’t just a meal—it’s a sacred time for connection. In Part 5, I shared how these meals have become even more meaningful since my wife, Wendy, passed away.

Lunch is the perfect time to ask questions, share laughs, and guide spiritual conversations. I ask my niece and nephews what they learned in Sunday School, relate those lessons to real-life situations, and sneak in some teasing about boyfriends or girlfriends. These moments deepen our bond and create memories that last a lifetime.

A cheerful outdoor scene featuring a bald, chubby uncle driving a Mustang convertible with his niece and two nephews. The niece, with long brown hair and glasses, smiles in the front passenger seat, while the two nephews, one with light blonde hair and the other with medium blonde hair, enjoy the ride in the backseat. The car cruises through a sunny landscape. — Cruising through life together: family, laughter, and endless joy. 🚗✨

The Little Things Matter

In Part 6, we focused on how the small gestures of discipleship have a big impact. Complimenting my niece on her Sunday dresses makes her smile. Updating my youngest nephew on his favorite sports teams excites him. Praising my oldest nephew for his joyful service at church encourages him to keep serving.

These small actions reinforce love, build confidence, and open doors for discipleship. As Jesus demonstrated, it’s often the little things that matter most.

“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones.” (Luke 16:10, NLT)

Creating a Welcoming Space

When my niece and nephews visit, I ensure they feel welcome. Stocking their favorite cookies, ice cream, and mac and cheese may seem simple, but it tells them they are valued. My niece prefers shells instead of elbows for mac and cheese, and she usually gets her way. Hospitality opens hearts and strengthens our relationship.

Everyday Discipleship: Movies, Sports, and More

Discipling nieces and nephews doesn’t always mean formal lessons. Everyday moments—like discussing a movie’s message, cheering at a sports game, or answering endless questions—become opportunities to share God’s love. These activities, as we explored in Part 3, create natural spaces for conversations about Christ.

The Greatest Blessing

Discipling nieces and nephews has been one of the most joyful experiences of my life. Yes, it takes effort, but the blessings far outweigh the cost. Because of them, laughter fills my home, curiosity challenges my faith and their love reflects God’s grace.

I firmly believe that God places these children in our lives for a reason. He calls us to invest in them, to guide them, and to grow alongside them. In the process, they become living reminders of His blessings and love.

A heartfelt church scene featuring a bald, chubby 62-year-old uncle kneeling at a prayer altar. Above his bowed head are glowing portraits of three children: a 9-year-old boy with light blonde hair, a 12-year-old girl with long brown hair wearing eyeglasses, and a 12-year-old boy with very light blonde hair. The serene church interior is bathed in warm, soft lighting, emphasizing devotion and love. — Praying with love and purpose ✨. This uncle lifts his niece and nephews up in prayer, cherishing their unique blessings. 🙏❤️

A Final Thought

To my niece and two nephews, if you ever read this: know that you are three of the greatest gifts God has ever given me. Through you, I’ve learned the depth of love, the joy of laughter, and the importance of being intentional in discipleship. My prayer is that one day, you will share these blessings with your own families.

Start Your Journey

If this series has inspired you, take the first step toward discipling the children in your life. The effort you invest today will bless both their lives and yours for years to come.

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