Learning at Camp

In Minnesota, every weekend during the summer hundreds of people head “up North.”  This grand exodus suggests the desire of people to get away from the routine of everyday life and enjoy some down time.  Some head to a summer cabin and others simply spend the weekend relaxing at the lake.  Included in this exodus are children and youth who head to camp – some who find their way to Bible Camp.  Over the years, Christian camping has been a tradition for many people.  This “get away” time is fun filled, challenging, and a great learning experience.  Though camping experiences individuals learn:

1)    To take responsibility.  Since Mom and Dad are not around to give direction, campers need to make many decisions on their own – like brushing teeth, changing clothes, and putting things away.  In addition, each camper is assigned a cabin and usually dining room responsibilities.

2)   To become independent.  For some, this may be the first time away from home with the opportunity to exercise their freedom of choice.

3)   To cooperate.  With scores of other people around, campers need to work together to experience unity and accomplish goals.

4)  To submit to authority.  Camp rules and regulations must be followed along with the direction that comes from camp directors, counselors, and other camp staff.

5)  To trust the Lord.  For some, the camping experience can be a lonely time.  It is in these settings that campers begin to learn the importance of leaning on the Lord for support and encouragement.

6)  To understand more about God.  Campers learn about:

a)  God’s Love. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

b)    God’s Way.  Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).

c)     God’s Worthiness.  Jesus is worthy in whom faith should be placed. “Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.” (Psalm 145:3).

d)    God’s Guidance.  “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; it all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6).

As our grandchildren, great-grandchildren, or other children head to Bible camp this summer, let’s use this time to pray for them.  Ask God to make this a life-changing experience for them.  Pray that they would come to trust in Jesus and come to know Him as their personal Savior and Lord.  As you pray this for your offspring, why not pray for yourself as well?