To Turn the World Upside Down

Truthsfortots Blog, Guest Blog September 11, 2013September 11, 2013children, family, parenting 0 Comment

Daily Truth: ““These men who have turned the world upside down .” Acts 17:6

Today is a day that turned our world upside down.

The images of September 11, 2001 will forever be seared on our minds. We each remember where we were and what we were doing when the attacks on the towers occurred. The peaceful America that we knew at the time was over.

Terrorist had turned our world upside down.

Our children will never know what it is like to board a plane or go into a national museum without a security screening.

“Terrorist” is a word that is now a part of our vocabulary.

Not since Pearl Harbor had our country been directly attacked.

Fear had turned our world upside down.

Fast forward seven years and my family’s world was once again turned upside down on 9/11 by the birth of our youngest son – although at the time we didn’t know it. I was teaching high school history when he was born.

You see, our youngest little man came to us through adoption. When he was born on 9/11 we had no idea that we would be given this little guy that would turn our world upside down – in a very good way.

Today he turns 5. When we got him, he was a 11 months old and couldn’t crawl. Now, I can’t keep up with him!

His precious little rambunctious self has turned our world upside down.

Fast forward once again four years.

Another event would turn our world upside down on 9/11.

Last year, as we were cutting the birthday cake for our little guy, I received a frantic phone call telling me that my dad was unresponsive and being transported by ambulance to an area hospital.

That call turned our world upside down.

Eight days later, dad was ushered into Heaven.

You know, as my family has walked down this undesirable path this past year we have each been taught many different lessons.

As I was contemplating what to write for this blog, it occurred the many significances that the date “9/11” holds for my family. The thought came to mind on how people and events have turned our world upside down as we know it.

There was the evil of the terrorist that brought death, destruction, and fear to our country. Yet, I also remember how our country seemed united after those events.

They turned our world upside down.

There was a mother who gave birth to a son. Due to her situation was unable to care for him and God allowed us to be the recipients of this blessing.

She and the birth of our son, turned our world upside down.

There was father,husband, brother, son, who loved, prayed, and cared for his family. A man who faithfully served his God. A man that God called to Heaven at what we would consider a time to early.

The death of my dad turned our world upside down.

Paul and Silas in the book of Acts were so bold in their testimony that the Jews were furious with them. Jason, a fellow Christian, housed Paul and Silas while they were in Thessalonica.

The next thing Jason knows is that there is a crowd of angry Jews attacking his house and demanding the lives of Paul and Saul.

Why? Because “these men have turned our world upside down”!

What had caused the Jews to accuse them of this?

The faithful preaching of their God and the testimony of their lives. (Acts 17:1-9)

So I ask you, what are you doing to turn your world upside down?

“But I’m just a mom!”

Yes, but you are raising precious gifts that you only have for a short amount of time and you don’t know how long that time is.

What better way to turn your world upside down for Christ than to raise children that will serve God faithfully.

So as you clean the house, wash dishes, fold clothes, etc, remember your life has the most impact on your children.

Don’t let Satan’s lies that ‘your work is not valuable’ or ‘that your work is not important’ burden you. Your work IS valuable. It IS important.

You are seeking to turn the world upside down for His glory!

Until next week,

Rebekah

Encourage: Giving Strength to Our Kids

Truthsfortots Blog, Guest Blog September 4, 2013September 4, 2013children, family, family activities, parenting 0 Comment

Daily Truth: “But command Joshua, and encourage him and strengthen him.” Deuteronomy 3:28

Who doesn’t need someone to come along side them every once in a while and encourage them in the work that they are doing?

We all do. But what does “encourage” mean?

Encourage is defined as “giving support, confidence, or hope to someone.”

Ok. So here’s a scenario.

It has been one of those “no” days. A day in which the kids were having trouble obeying. You know what I mean – a no “encourage” day.

Then you hear the kiddos say, “Let’s play mommy”.

Fearful of how that will transpire, based off of my performance thus far, a “stop” is quickly put to that game.

Now let’s take another scenario.

Moses has just been told he won’t be able to go into the Promise Land because he didn’t follow God’s directions explicitly (that could be a whole other topic – but I digress).

So, God tells Moses to go up to Mount Pisgah and look all around. Everything Moses sees will be inherited by the Israelites under Joshua’s leadership. Then God says to go and encourage Joshua and to strengthen him. (Deuteronomy 3:27-29)

I would say Moses had had a pretty rough day up to that point. All those years leading the Israelites, listening to their complaining about EVERYTHING, having to deal with their disobedience, and putting up with all their whining and griping and because Moses got angry and struck a rock, God told him he wouldn’t be able to go into the Promised Land.

Yep. That makes for a pretty rough day.

Then God basically says to Moses, “Get out of yourself and encourage this young man, who you have been training in My ways, to have the strength to lead My people into the Promised Land. After all, it is a little scary and overwhelming and you know it”.

So, how can we as mom’s encourage our little guys who we have been training in His ways, even when we don’t always feel like it.

Here are some ideas. Not all are original to me.

1. Have a “yes” day. Everything a child asks that day, say “yes”.

“Can we have ice cream for breakfast?”

“Yes.”

“Can I watch a movie?”

“Yes.”

The key to this (I am told – I am a little nervous about trying this one) is not to tell the kids it’s a “yes” day. Let me know how it works out for you.

2. Mail them cards.

When my eldest went to camp last summer, I wrote her a card for everyday she was gone, labeled them, and put them in her suitcase. I was so proud of myself. After all, how many other mothers would do that?

She thanked me for the cards when she got back but asked, “Do you think next year you could mail them to me at camp instead?” (A verse about “pride goeth before a fall” comes to mind.)

3. Slip cards into their backpacks.

Hallmark has a selection of cards just to encourage your kids. They aren’t hard to find or make them yourself.

4. Put notes in their lunchboxes.

My kids LOVE this and they keep them for a long time.

The neat thing about these is that they don’t have to be elaborate. If you are like me, creative words and pithy sayings don’t come readily to me. So, I get a little help.

Life Way Christian Book Store had a notepad of the Snoopy characters with words to encourage. Just rip one out and stick it in their lunchboxes.

Hallmark had a book called “If You Love ’em, Bug ’em”. These are in the shape of a ladybug with fun bug sayings like, “It really bugs me we can’t be together – have a great day.”

(P.S. got some similar notes for my hubs – but they’re a little more…. ummm …..flirtatious).

5. Stick a fun surprise in their lunchbox.

(My kids are so going to love their “Encourage” chocolate bar surprise tomorrow.)

6. Of course nothing beats hugs and words like, “I’m proud of you kiddo.”

My dad used to always say that. Those would be the words I would need to encourage me and give me strength to finish my task.

So go out and be mom’s that encourage their kids. After all, life can be a little overwhelming – even for a 4 year old!

Until next week,

Rebekah

From Fear to Faith: “Fear Not” Scriptures

Truthsfortots Blog, Guest Blog August 28, 2013August 28, 2013children, family, parenting, scripture 0 Comment

Daily Truth: “Fear not, for I am with thee”. Isaiah 41:10

thunderstorm7.jpg (512×339)

One of my family’s favorite “fear not” passage is Psalm 56.

Last Wednesday night, our Pastor shared a portion of this chapter with us in church. My hubs and I reminded our oldest about this “fear not” passage that night at home.

Thursday was the big test of faith vs. fear for our oldest. She would have to board the bus to go to a game. In tears, she told us she absolutely didn’t want to do it.

So, we promptly brought her to this “fear not” passage.

“What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.” Psalms 56:3

(This song goes great to “The Wheels on the Bus”. An easy way for little guys to learn this verse.)

When we fear something, what do we often do?

Cry.

Mmmmm – God knew that too.

“Put my tears into Your bottle; Are they not in Your book?” Psalms 56:8

Our tears are so important to God that He collects them and puts them in a bottle.

Then the Psalmist repeats himself.

“In God I have put my trust; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” Psalms 56:11

We like to rephrase the last part.

“What can___________do to me?”

Fill in the blank with your child’s fear (or yours for that matter).

Storms. People. Buses. Darkness. (All real fears of my children).

You get the idea.

Here are a few more of our favorite “fear not” verses.

“For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power.” II Timothy 1:7

God doesn’t want us to fear, so He gives us the power to face our fear.

” Fear not, for I am with thee; be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee;” Isaiah 41:10

“For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.” Isaiah 41:13

Once again a repeat. However, don’t miss the beautiful picture here. God holds our hand while we face our fears.

My youngest did that the other day. He hates anything doctor which if you know my family you will appreciate the irony of that fear. So, I was prepared that the dentist would be a humdinger of a visit. When the hygienist called my little man’s name. he looked at me, stretched his hand toward me, and said, “Can you hold my hand?” You know what- he didn’t let go until he was out of that chair.

That’s what God does with us when we have to face our fears. We look at Him with tears in our eyes, and ask Him, “Abba, Father, will you hold my hand?” He doesn’t let go.

“Only be thou strong and very courageous” Joshua 1:7

“The Lord is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?” Psalms 118:6

Psalms 23 is not only a good reminder of God’s provision, but also of His protection.

“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” Psalms 23:1

Can we not also say. “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not fear.”

There are so many verses that deal with fear. These are just a few of our favorites.

So, what was the result of the bus? Well, when we asked her how it went – “It was great mom. I only wish you could have let me ride it home instead of having to go home with you.”

Sigh – I can’t win!

Until next week,

Rebekah

Fear Not: Turning Fear into Faith

Truthsfortots Guest Blog, Uncategorized August 20, 2013children, family devotions, parenting, scripture 0 Comment

Daily Truth: “Fear not, for I am with you.” Isaiah 41:10

Fear can be a paralyzing emotion. Different things or events cause people fear to fear different things.

My boys fear storms at night. So, the lights stay on.

My middle daughter feared sleeping in her room at night because the dark blue walls made her think monsters were in the room. (Her walls are now a lovely shade of a pale green).

My oldest daughter fears getting on a school bus.

At times, I fear running by myself. I think it’s because I have read to many Reader’s Digest “Drama in Real Life”! So, I take my pepper spray, use a little wisdom, and plug in the music.

Fear is such a powerful emotion and can be a very controlling emotion if we allow it.

We were having our family devotions the other day out of the Heroes and Villains book that we have been enjoying this summer. The scripture was on Peter denying Christ.

Yes, denying Christ was a horrible thing for him to do.

Yet, what was the basis of him denying Christ?

Let’s see. One of his friends betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver, his other friends scattered, and he had watched at a distance the events in the home of the high priest. Peter also was fully aware of the cruelty of the Romans.

So, what was the underlying issue that caused Peter to deny Christ? Fear.

Yet, despite Peter’s fear leading to his denial of Christ, God used him above and beyond what Peter could have even imagined at the Day of Pentecost!

Fear caused David to lie and commit murder. Yet, God would later call him a “Man after His own heart”.

Fear caused Jacob to run from Esau rather than admit his deception. Yet, God would have Jesus come through Jacob’s line.

Fear can be dibilitating. Yet, fear can also cause us to be victorious.

Fear caused Esther to pray and fast and then go before the King to ask for the salvation of her people.

Fear caused Shadrach, Meshach, and Obednego to stand before King Nebuchadnezzar and be thrown into the fiery furnace.

Fear caused Daniel to continue praying three times a day to God and then be cast into the lion’s den.

What was the difference? They allowed their fear to become a demonstration of their faith. They had faith that their God was bigger than their fear.

So, back to the devotional.

“Kids, do you think Peter was afraid that night?

“Yes.”

“Do you think God could have helped him overcome that fear if Peter had asked?”

“Yes.”

Turning to my oldest, “So, can God help you over come your fears such as getting on the bus this Thursday to go play in a volleyball game?”

Silence. Then, “I really don’t want to get on that bus, mom.”

“I know. But don’t you think your God is bigger than your fear?”

“Yes.”

“Don’t you think the devil is using the emotion and lie of fear to cause you not to have faith that God will help you on that bus?”

“Yes.”

“How about turning that fear into faith. It will be a step of faith for every parent to send their child on that bus this Thursday. It will also be a step of faith for everyone of your teammates and friends to get on that bus.”

So, how can we combat fear in our lives and help our children combat fear in their lives?

1. Prayer. Pray with your children. Pray for their specific fear know matter what it is. Pray with them that God would give them the strength to overcome that fear.

2. Scripture. It has been said that there are over 365 “Fear Not” verses in the Bible – one for each day of the year. Give them scripture that deals with fear to help them conquer those fears. At night, my oldest listens to the Psalms being read from the Bible Gateway app.

3. Music. Good Christian music is so calming as well as relaxing classical music. We often play music for the kids to settle down. When I was delivering my oldest, we brought a CD player and some soft classical music. All the nurses wanted to stay in our room because it was so relaxing.

Here are two of our favorite “fear” verses.

“What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.” Psalms 56:3

“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” Isaiah 41:10 (Actually, you really need to read the whole chapter.)

So, Thursday afternoon, I will be taking a step of faith with so many other parents as our children take their own step of faith getting onto the buses to go to games, turning our fear into faith.

Until next Monday,

Rebekah

Make This Year’s School Shoes Last a Lifetime

Truthsfortots Blog, Cathy Jo's Blog August 15, 2013August 15, 2013children, family, parenting, school, scripture 0 Comment

Daily Truth: Shoes “and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace” Ephesians 6:15

Father and Child's Feet

Baby steps then toddler steps and before you know it your child is grown. Each stage of growth means new shoes.

New shoes are almost always part of the items purchased for a new school year. This year while buying school supplies, clothing and shoes make it a special time and also go out to lunch after shopping.

Bring up the verse from Ephesians 6 about shoes. Discuss how shoes are important to protect feet. Discuss how different shoes are needed for various sports, gym class, and school. The correct type of shoe helps us to do our best.

In Ephesians 6:15 there are several words that may need explaination to the child. The word “shod” means to bind on. I grew up with horses so when I think of the word “shod” I think of nailing on a horse’s shoe. So “bind” would mean to tightly fasten to your feet. The word “preparation” means to be prepared. The word “gospel” means the good news of Jesus Christ. The word “peace” means the salvation we have through Jesus Christ. Sure there are other kinds of peace but true peace is only found in Jesus.

Help your child remember each day when he or she puts on those new shoes to also put on the shoes of peace from God’s Word.

The special shoes that God teaches us about in Ephesians 6 are just a part of the entire armor of God. To learn more about all of the armor of God read Ephesians 6:10-20.

God is so good to teach us His Word through things such as shoes in our every day life. Take advantage of “teachable moments” and bring God’s Word alive to your child.

Until the next “Truth” telling moment,

Cathy Jo Johnson

Thy Son, Thy Only Son: Dedicated to God

Truthsfortots Blog, Guest Blog August 5, 2013August 5, 2013children, family, parenting 0 Comment

Daily Truth: “Take thy son, thy only son Isaac, whom thou lovest…and offer him.” Genesis 22:2

Dedicated in Life and in Death.

This weekend my church family dedicated four lives to God.

We dedicated the life of – a sweet wife and mother – to the Lord. She was dedicated to God in life and now in death.

We dedicated the lives of a sweet couple and their daughter to the Lord. They were dedicated to God in life and now in death.

The word used over and over during their service was “dedicated” – dedicated to God, their son, their family, each other.

When a tragedy like this strikes, you are faced with so many questions. “Why?” “What if..?” “How come?”

When tragedy like this strikes you are also brought face to face with a choice – How am I going to allow God to use this in my life?

The passing of these four have brought this question to the front of my mind. The one phrase that seems to come before me often is “Thy son, thy only son”. (Genesis 22:1-18)

On Tuesday morning, I opened my email and there was a devotional dealing with having our children dedicated to God.

Coincidence? No. Providence.

Our Pastor spoke briefly to the church family Wednesday night. He told us how he turned to his wife this week and asked, “If God had said to you that your son, daughter-in-law, and your granddaughter would be taken home prematurely, would you have been willing?”

Her response, “We’ve always been willing.”

Dedicated to God in life and in death. Powerful. Poignant.

A mom in our church, whose daughter was in the hospital, said that our Pastor came around to each of the hospital rooms and asked how THEIR kids were doing. The mom said that they asked Pastor, “Fine, but how are YOU doing?”

His response, “We are thankful for the years God gave us our son.”

Dedicated to God in life and in death. Powerful.

My husband and I dedicated our oldest to the Lord shortly after she was born. We did the same for our three younger ones as soon as they were adopted. But like so many other families, did we realize the full impact of that moment?

We, like Hannah and Abraham of old, opened up our hands to the Lord and said, “Take and use them as only You see fit. May I not get in the way of your master plan.”

The four we dedicated to God had all fulfilled part of God’s master plan this week. Though their time was short here on earth, God’s work for them was done. They had dedicated their lives to His service in life and in death and now they are enjoying the presence of God in Heaven.

So, I am brought face to face with this question: Am I willing to give my two sons and my two daughters – the ones that my husband and I claimed I Samuel 1:27 “For this child I prayed and the Lord has granted my petition which I asked of Him” – to Him daily, without reserves, fully dedicated to God and His service?

Lord, may I be willing.

Dedicated to God As I watch my children play, And see them change and grow, I want to keep them young and small, But I know that cannot be so.

They are full of life and dreams, Each one planning what they want to be- A daddy, doctor, policeman, farmer, A princess, writer, teacher, mommy.

I have dreams for them as well And wonder too what they will be, What goals they will accomplish, And what dreams they will achieve.

Yet, as I seek God’s Word for wisdom, I am reminded that they are not my own, That these precious children of mine Are given to me from God – on loan.

As I bring each child before the throne, And bow on bended knee, I give each child to the Lord, And petition Him humbly,

“Lord, I don’t ask that they have riches Or that they experience great fame. I simply ask that they know, love, serve you, And glorify Thy name.

I know these children are not my own, You have chosen to give them to me. So, I simply give them back to you That they may be used greatly of Thee.

Please take them, use them, and mold them Into servants and vessels that you can use. Sharpen them, train them, and strengthen them Into Your powerful tools.

May I step back and allow you to work Even if your ways I don’t understand. May this mother never get in the way Of You working Your master plan.

May I hold them tight enough to protect them From the snares of this World and Satan, But hold them loose enough so that You May use them, mold them, and shape them.”

So as I watch my children play And see them quickly change and grow, I know my time with them is very short And pray it is God they will seek, love, serve, and know.

Until Next Monday, Rebekah

“The World Itself Could Not Contain the Books”

Truthsfortots Blog, Cathy Jo's Blog July 19, 2013July 23, 2015family, family activities, family devotions, parenting 0 Comment

Daily Truth: “And there are also many things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written.” John 21:25

Did you know there were 1,052,803 books published in 2009 and approximately 3,000,000 books published in 2011? (These statistics are from Bowkers, the company in the U.S., that issue ISBN numbers.) Google actually counted the number of books in existence and as of August 5, 2010 there were 129,864,880 books in print. Yet, “the world itself could not contain the books that would be written” of all that Jesus did while on earth.

All the things that Jesus did if written in books would fill the earth. That is a huge statement. How big is the earth you ask? The circumference at the equator is 24,901 miles. (One of those facts remembered from grade school.) And yet, “the world itself could not contain the books that would be written” of all that Jesus did while on earth.

Are you getting the picture? It is mind boggling to think of how much Jesus did in three years. His compassion was great! His love was deep! He could not but help those around him.

When we teach our children about Jesus feeding the 5,000, turning water into wine, meeting the woman at the well, healing the sick, blind, deaf and lame, and raising the dead we are just telling about a few of Jesus’s miracles and teachings. Remember, “the world itself could not contain the books that would be written.” Do not lose the enthusiasum and wonder of a child. Get amazed at what the Lord Jesus Christ did! Share that love, compassion and amazment with the children in your life.

We do not need to wonder what was not included in the Bible because God has included just the right teachings and miracles for us to know and learn. Matthew 5:18 tells us that “no jot or tittle shall in no way pass from the law, until all be fulfilled.” Everything written in the Bible is for a purpose. How good it is that God inspired holy men of God to write about Himself and His Son, Jesus Christ, all in one book, the Bible. Can you imagine needing to read thousands of books to understand the character of God, His plan of salvation, Jesus’s miracles, how to live with one another, and all the other many things God teaches us through His Word? God is so good to us.

And yet, “the world itself could not contain the books that would be written” of all that Jesus did while on earth. How wonderful it is to think about Jesus’s great compassion for the people around him. Not only in the time he walked this earth but the eternal home He is preparing for those who believe in Him. Jesus gave His life for us that we may live with Him in eternity. His compassion was and is too great to fathom. It is also too great to record in volumes of books. Truly amazing!

Share this concept with a young child, especially a visual learner. Try going to your city library and pointing out all the books and then discussing that all that Jesus did while on earth could not even be held in that library. Check out Truths for Tots Pinterest board on Books and Libraries to get another visual on large collections of books.

Also, check out Truths for Tots Pinterest board on Children’s Books that Point to Jesus.

Remember, “And there are also many things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, the world itself could not contain the books that would be written.” John 21:25

Until the next “Truth” sharing moment,

Cathy Jo

Are You an Encouragement? Six Examples from the Bible

Truthsfortots Blog, Cathy Jo's Blog July 9, 2013February 15, 2014children, family, parenting, teaching activities 0 Comment

Daily Truth: “When they read it they rejoiced over its encouragement.” Acts 15:31

The word encouragement can be a noun or a verb. As a noun it “is the act of encouraging” “the state of being encouraged” or “something that encourages”. As a verb it “is to inspire or give courage”.

Encouragement should therefore inspire, give courage, and add strength to one’s character. In Acts 15:31 a letter is sent to the people of Antioch to encourage. A letter, baked cookies, flowers, acts of service, a hug, and many other things can give encouragement. God has many examples of encouragement in His Word that we can apply to our lives today to show and teach encouragement.

Six Examples of Encouragement Taught in the Bible

That We Can Use Today

Moses felt as though he was not equipped to take on the Pharaoh of Egypt. Exodus 3:10-4:21 God provided the resources which gave encouragement that Moses would need. God will provide for you and your child too. As parents we can provide the necessary items and people such as coaches or instructors to help each child to play a sport or instrument. Parents provide encouragement too by attending games and recitals.
Joshua was to become the next leader of the Israelites. Moses had been a mentor for many years. Deuteronomy 31 Godly mentoring is valuable to your child too. We all learn by example. The saying “actions speak louder than words” is true. Joshua had seen Moses rely on God for strength and guidance. Let your child too see how God provides for your family’s needs and guidance. Pray as a family and praise God for answered prayer. Read missionary biographies together to see God’s provision and guidance. These real life stories provide great encouragement and a form of mentoring.
Rahab provided encouragement and protection of the Israelite spies that came to Jericho. She told the spies that she had heard of all the amazing things their God had done. Joshua 2:3-14 Share your life stories with your children how God has watched over you. We serve a powerful and sovereign God. Make God real to your children by using real life examples and share by telling of those those special times.
Even after Peter denies the Lord Jesus Christ three times Jesus upon his return is gentle, loving and encouraging. John 21:1-19 Our children will disappoint us at times. Remember the example Christ set for us. We all make mistakes. Peter was broken and repentant. Christ forgave, restored and encouraged. What an example!
John Mark is left by Paul. Barnabas encourages John Mark by taking him along to share the God News of Jesus Christ. Acts 15:36-41 Even when someone disappoints us or our children, look to see what we can learn. Growth can come from a disappointment. Help your child grow spiritually and look to God. Be an encourager as Barnabas was to John Mark.
Jesus is coming again! Acts 1:11 What hope and encouragement that is to the believer! We are sinful people yet Jesus died, rose again, ascended into heaven and is coming again for us. He died for each one of us. He didn’t have to, Jesus did nothing wrong. What an encouragement that is to know that our heavenly Father loved us so much that He gave His only Son, Jesus Christ, to die in our place. What a loving sacrifice, what an encouragement, what a Savior!

God encourages us daily. Parents need to encourage children daily. God’s Word gives us examples to teach us how to encourage one another.

Encouragement is an act of love. “Love one another as (God) so loved you”. John 15:12b

What are some ideas for encouragement that you do with your family?

Until the next “Truth” sharing moment,

Cathy Jo

This Do in Remembrance

Truthsfortots Blog, Guest Blog July 8, 2013July 11, 2013children, christian, family, parenting 1 Comment

Daily Truth: “Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of Me.” I Corinthians 11:24

This do in remembrance of Me.

We had communion in church tonight. It is always a reflective time for me and yes, it always brings tears to my eyes. I think even more so since my dad has passed.

You see, the thought that what Christ did for me on the cross overwhelms me.

This do in remembrance of Me.

The thought that He willing gave His body to be broken for me – for MY sin is powerful. (Isaiah 53:5)

This do in remembrance of Me.

The thought of His back being beaten and a crown of thorns placed on His head for MY sins is provoking. (Matthew 27:29)

This do in remembrance of Me.

The thought of His body being nailed to a cross and his side pierced for MY sins is unbelievable. (John 20:25, John 19:34)

This do in remembrance of Me.

The thought that He rose again the third day and is in Heaven preparing a place for ME, a sinner, is mind boggling. (Matthew 28:6, John 14:2)

This do in remembrance of Me.

The thought that this salvation from MY sin is a free gift from the Savior is humbling. (Romans 5:18)

This do in remembrance of Me.

When I teach my children of God, I am doing it in remembrance of Him.

When I read my Bible, I am doing it in remembrance of Him.

When I worship Him in body, soul, and spirit, I am doing it in remembrance of Him.

When life is overwhelming and I just have to trust on Christ for strength, I am doing it in remembrance of Him.

When I cry out to God, I am doing it in remembrance of Him.

When I have to discipline my children, I am doing it in remembrance of Him.

When I am even doing my daily tasks, I am doing it in remembrance of Him.

When I love my husband, I am doing it in remembrance of Him.

This do in remembrance of Me.

I guess it struck a chord with me tonight. I am to do all for Him to the best of my ability because He gave all for me.

This do in remembrance of Me.

I usually sit between my girls during communion and I have them each tell me when they accepted Christ as their personal Savior. I want to know that they know that they are on their way to Heaven. It NEVER gets old hearing them tell me of the day that they became a child of their Heavenly Father.

You see, my husband and children are all that I can take with me to Heaven one day. Everything else will pass away and be nothing.

This do in remembrance of Me.

Dear ladies, as we go about our daily and sometimes mundane tasks, remember that we are doing it in remembrance of Him.

Until next Monday,

Rebekah

Honor to Whom Honor

Truthsfortots Blog, Guest Blog July 2, 2013children, family, parenting, summer 0 Comment

Daily Truth: “Render therefore to all their due…honor to whom honor.”

Honor to whom honor.

Last night was the hubs birthday. Now, I know he is ummm…. years old but I still like to do a theme for his birthday. So, considering that the kids and I were away from him for 28 VERY long days, we did a “Super Hero” party – complete with Superman decor. Yes, I wore a Superman shirt.

After all, he is our super hero.

Honor to whom honor.

This week is the 4th of July. Yes, a holiday to remember the birth of our country. However, it is also a holiday to remember the heroes that served and gave all for our freedoms.

This is another holiday that always makes me cry. How can you not.

I can’t help crying when I hear songs such as, “Proud to Be An American” or our national anthem.

Honor to whom honor.

I took the kids to Washington D.C. a couple of weeks ago. We stopped at the WWII memorial. Very moving. Especially when you see the wall of 4,000 stars in which each star represents 100 lives lost during WWII.

Both my grandfathers served in WWII. One was in the Navy and one was in the Army.

Honor to whom honor.

Arlington Cemetery is another place that makes you stop and think. The changing of the guards in front of the “Tomb of the Unknown Soldier” is very moving.

Honor to whom honor.

We need to teach our kids at a very early age to be thankful for our freedoms and to show respect for our country.

This can be done in simple ways.

1. Fly the American flag…and not just on the 4th.

2. Dress them up in patriotic colors whenever our country celebrates a national holiday.

3. Teach them to say, “thank you” to servicemen and women that they see.

The kids love to do this in the airport.

4. Teach them about why our country is so great. No other country was founded on the principles of the Word of God.

5. Play patriotic music.

6. Make the 4th a BIG deal. Decorate for it. Celebrate with friends or family.

7. Take them to national sights. Williamsburg is a fantastic family place to learn about the history of our nation. A little closer to home would be Conner Prairie.

Honor to whom honor.

So, despite political opinions or stands, we have the responsibility as parents to teach our kiddos about the history of our country and what makes it truly great.

Enjoy the 4th. Eat a few hot dogs. Watch fireworks. Dress up in red, white, and blue.

Above all, remember to thank the Lord for our great nation.

Honor to whom honor.

Until next week,

Rebekah