Challenge

“O my people, hear my teaching; listen to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter hidden things, things from of old-- what we have heard and known, what our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done.  He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our forefathers to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands. They would not be like their forefathers-- a stubborn and rebellious generation, whose hearts were not loyal to God, whose spirits were not faithful to him.”

Psalm 78:1-8

I thought about writing some really elaborate or creative blog about what God has been teaching me this week, but I found that HIS words were so much more sufficient and concise than my own. My blog today is simple. Mom, I want to issue you (and myself) a challenge: to make sure that your children whether toddler, preschool, or teenager are learning to listen (for the little ones) or read/study God’s word every day. Help them start this good and fruitful habit now by asking them questions about what they are reading and learning.

In addition, set aside a time each week as a family to have “church at home”. Turn on some worship music, sing praises to the Lord, study the Word as a family, and end with a time of prayer. Ladies, let’s not leave the task of discipling our children to their church, school, or youth group. Let’s make studying God’s word and having a personal relationship with our Lord and Savior a priority in our home. His Word promises that then they would “trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands.” Our children would in turn experience life more abundantly in this life and in the next. J

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for being the ultimate example of what good is. You are love, and your Word outlines how we should live each day; it gives us so many promises that we can cling to. Please help us not be so consumed by this world, and not be so busy chasing dreams and shuffling around that we forget to be deliberate and intentional about carving out time with you. Help us to “start at home” by praising you and learning about your goodness as a family. Let our worship of you be sincere and contagious. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.