children

Hope for the Future

Truthsfortots Cathy Jo's Blog , , 0 Comment

Daily Truth:   “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

 Jeremiah 29:11

Light shines through the darkness.

The news heard on the radio, TV, computer, or phone of violence and heartbreak can be overwhelming at times.  How about you?  Do you feel the same way?  Is there any hope?

It is good to know that God knows the beginning from the end.  (Isaiah 46:10)

Violence and hatred seem to be abounding everywhere in our cities, in outlying areas, and in the world around us.  Our families are not immune to the increasing danger and risks.  Is there hope?  As my mind raced and my concerns grew I thought – I must bring “every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” (2 Cor. 10:5) and not get caught up in emotion.

As I looked to Scripture for guidance I thought about Jesus.

  1. Jesus, God’s only Son, left the perfectness of heaven to come to this world with all of its sinfulness.  God placed Jesus in a manger as a helpless baby with an obedient young girl and young man who loved God.  Are we as parents obedient to God and His Word?
  2. God protected Jesus from King Herod who sought to kill this “newborn king”.  God can protect our children too.  Do we cry out to Him for protection?
    Do we believe that God will do what He said He will do?
  3. God provided a place for Jesus to grow and learn in the wise counsel of earthly parents as they sought God’s will for their lives.  Do we seek God’s will for our children and our families?  Have we placed our trust in Jesus Christ?
  4. Jesus began His ministry at just the right time. Even though there were scoffers and enemies at every turn Jesus kept right on teaching.  Do we let the world dictate what  is truth or do we stand up for God’s Word where the only “Truth” is found?

Jesus never did anything wrong, yet in God’s perfect plan He allowed Jesus to die on the cross for the sins of the world.  But, Jesus did not stay dead.  He arose from the dead!

Christ is now sitting at the right hand of God interceding on our behalf. (Colossians 3:1)

When we see and hear about violence and heartbreak in the news or maybe in our own lives, take heart!  Jesus has overcome the world and He will do the same for us.

Keep on keepin’ on with loving, teaching, praying, nurturing, laughing, and crying out to God as God has given us hope – Jesus Christ our LORD.

We have a bright future!

Until the next “Truth” sharing moment,

Cathy Jo Johnson

DSCF0757

If you have not placed your trust in Jesus Christ please follow this link. 

I am Bored…Where is Contentment?

Truthsfortots Cathy Jo's Blog , , , , 0 Comment

Daily Truth

  “Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content…”

Philippians 4:11

695867-kids-bored

Children at the close of summer sometimes begin to lose their contentment. Well, maybe parents too.  Your family has been swimming, biking, hiking, reading, camping, vacationing, visiting, and now everyone is beginning to look forward to getting into a different routine or just getting back into a routine.  Some children may even say they are bored.  They ask us, “What is there to do?”

As moms we sometimes try to fix things to bring contentment.  We may suggest activities that the child could do.  We may invite another child over for a playdate, ask the child to select a piece of paper from the jar in the kitchen with activity ideas,  or ask a family over for a cookout to spice things up.  These all are great ideas yet, is that the ideas given to us from Scripture?

While studying Philippians 4:10-20 the word “learned” jumped out at me.  Paul says, “for I have learned in whatsoever state I am, to be content.”  To learn something means that it had been taught.  How then does one teach contentment?  By looking at Paul’s life we can see what to emulate in our lives so we can teach to our children, the next generation.

  1. Paul made cheerful sounds from a jail cell. While Paul and Silas were in prison, they sang praises to God (Acts 16:25) and God miraculously freed them.  God will free us from our sadness and give us happiness of soul when we focus on him.  We need to help our children focus on things of God rather than circumstances.  Use the Psalms and put a melody to them and teach your children God’s Word.  Examples of Psalms set to a Melody (A free pdf)
  2. The book of Philippians uses the word joy or rejoicing every few paragraphs.  The word JOY can be used as an acronym meaning:  to think of Jesus first, Others second, and Yourself third.  Once a child has made a profession of faith this concept is easier as their love of Jesus grows but the words can be taught as a reminder that true JOY comes with thinking of things in that order.
  3. Paul takes evil and turns it into good.  Bad and sad things will happen.  It is important to point children to Jesus and not our circumstances.  In Philippians 2:1-11 Paul shares the Gospel message with us.  Jesus did everything for us.  Share that unwavering confidence with your children so they too at times of heartbreak or fear will know that contentment will come.

As a parent we have had our lifetime to learn contentment.  Our children are just starting out. With much patience, great love, and heartfelt prayer we can teach and guide our children toward true contentment.  As our relationship with Christ grows so does our contentment.

This season of summer is about to end.  Maybe that is why God created seasons, He knows we like change. May we learn contentment from God’s Word and share what we learn to our children.

Until the next “Truth” sharing moment,

Cathy Jo Johnson

DSCF0757

Photo of children from the Herald Sun 

 

 

 

 

 

Elohim, Creator of All

Truthsfortots Cathy Jo's Blog , , 0 Comment

Daily Truth:   “In the beginning Elohim created the heaven and the earth.”  Genesis 1:1

 from the Names of God Bible  

Wian 26

Did you know that there are many Hebrew names for God in the Old Testament?

Each Hebrew name of God teaches us about a character quality of God.  Elohim (e-lo-HEEM) is found in the very first verse of the Bible.  Elohim means “Living God, Creator of All”.  This name of God is found over 2,000 times in the Old Testament.  The next time you and your child go on a nature walk thank Elohim for the beautiful scenery, animals, and how all of nature works together in such harmony.

El Shadday (El shad-DAI) is another name of God.  This Hebrew name means “God Almighty”.  When things are happening in our lives it is good to know that God knows all.  He is powerful and mighty to take care of us.  When Abraham was 99 years old God came to him to tell him that he would finally have a son with his wife Sarah, who was well over childbearing age, that would provide him with many descendants.  God told Abraham, “I am El Shadday.”  (God Almighty) This promise was fulfilled with the birth of their son Isaac.   It is good to know that with God nothing is impossible.

Yahweh Shalom (Yah-WEH sha-LOME) is another Hebrew name of God which means “The LORD of Peace”.  It means much more than just our English word for peace.  It “usually refers to to the absence of outward conflict or a state of inner calm” according to Ann Spangler in Names of God Bible.  It comes when living in harmony with God. Gideon built an altar and called it Yahweh Shalom as read in Judges 6:24.   What a wonderful name of God particularly as we see and read about things happening in our world today.  “With perfect peace you will protect those whose minds, cannot be changed, because they trust you.” Isaiah 26:3 Names of God Bible. No wonder that God’s Son, Jesus Christ is called the Prince of Peace.

What’s in a Name? is a children’s book for ages 4-8.  This colorfully illustrated book will help your child learn some of the special names of God.  Before family time or family devotions find out the meaning  of the name belonging to each member of your family.   Read What’s in a Name? to show that children throughout the world have names that have special meanings. The book concludes by teaching four special names of God.

When you get to know someone you learn their name and things about them.  Help your child know God better by learning His special names.

Until the next “Truth” sharing moment,

Cathy Jo Johnson

DSCF0757

 

 

 

 

 

Power Up “Sons of Thunder” are Coming: Caring for the Active Child

Truthsfortots Cathy Jo's Blog , , 0 Comment

Daily Praise:

“James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James, to whom He gave the name Boanerges, that is, ‘Sons of Thunder'”

Mark 3:1

Boys and girls running

I smile every time I read the verse Mark 3:1.   Jesus gives the nickname “Sons of Thunder” to two young men.  Any parent or teacher of boys or active children knows how rambunctious some children can be.  When active children get together there is nonstop laughter, pranks, and high energy.  Trying to stay a step ahead is difficult yet fun.

Mark 3:1 tells me that Jesus has a sense of humor.  Can’t you just see the twinkling in Jesus’ eyes as he smiled and said,  ‘”Sons of Thunder.”‘  Just picture these two young men running with zeal, maybe even in the way of others to get there first.  The Aramaic name “Boanerges” denotes a fiery and destructive zeal as of a thunderstorm. Another word  to describe  “Sons of Thunder” is commotion.  Jesus knew their personalities and enjoyed them for who they were. We too should understand the temperaments of our children.  When we lovingly use humor with our children an environment of joy and an atmosphere of contentment will surround our families.

Jesus also provides us with an example of how to harness the energy of the active child.  He gave direction, exhibited patience,  and provided encouragement.  So many times our energy wears out before that of our children.  We should consider the example that Jesus gave us and think twice before reacting.

Ideas to Increase Energy of Mothers with Preschoolers and

Early Elementary Children

  1. Getting rest will help with energy and patience level.  Try to keep your bedtime and that of your children on a schedule.  Easier said than done, but routine is important.
  2. Swapping childcare with a friend for a morning each week can bring renewed energy.
  3. Plan activities with another mom where you both can talk yet have fun watching your children play together.
  4. Sign up for an exercise class  that provides a child care that you trust while you exercise.
  5. Plan activities that you enjoy doing with your children.  Swimming, crafting, biking, camping or cooking together are just a few ideas.  Build enjoyable memories while raising children. This provides a form of relaxation.  Remember the process is important so be flexible because things usually do not go as planned.
  6. Outside activities burn energy and provide fun.

 Jesus’ Examples of Working with Energetic People

  1. Jesus gives clear directions.  Children need to know what is expected.  They also need to know how to do what you are asking.  Make sure that the skill, chore, or task that has been asked has been clearly not only asked but demonstrated.  Remember that there are visual, kinesthetic, and auditory learners.  Knowing your child’s learning style will help you give directions that your child will more clearly understand.
  2. To increase patience allow for time with God.  Jesus, our example, always got alone and spent time with His Father.  Writing a verse on a card that you can place in front of the kitchen sink or post in our car can keep your focus in the correct place.  “Perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee”.   Isaiah 26:3
  3. Jesus gave the rowdy boys an endearing name as a means of encouragement to them.  This also illustrated to the people around (the other disciples) that these boys were to be valued even though they were at times unruly or over zealous.

Parents of active children need many things.  By looking at the example that Jesus provides, gives us a plan and hope.  These active children will grow up.  Just think, when all that energy is directed to serving God what an impact they will make!

Until the next “Truth” sharing moment,

Cathy Jo Johnson

DSCF0757

 

 

 

Father’s Hands: A Picture of Strength

Truthsfortots Blog, Guest Blog , , , , 0 Comment
Daily Truth:  “My Father, Who has given them to Me, is greater and mightier than all [else]; and no one is able to snatch [them] out of the Father’s hand.”  John 10:29
photo (33)
My father’s hands holding my newborn nephew.

 

This week, with Father’s Day approaching, I have been contemplating a father’s hands.

You see, a person’s hands can tell so much about them.

A father’s hands can show and teach so many character qualities that we would want to see in our children.

A father’s hands can shape and mold.

So, Father’s Day holds mixed emotions for our family.

We of course celebrate all the wonderful things about my hubs and what an outstanding father he is to the kids.

Yet, I can’t help but be overcome with the fact that all though I can remember all the qualities that made my dad a wonderful father, I can’t share those with him.

The picture above is one of my favorite pics of my dad.  You don’t see his face, but the picture depicts all that he was.  It’s all in my father’s hands.

What do a father’s hands represent?

A father’s hands represents kindness.  They show that even though evil things happen, his hands will show us the kindness we need to see.

A father’s hands represent gentleness.  Who else’s hands can be so full of strength yet, can hold a newborn with utmost care.

A father’s hands represent love.  It warms my heart to see my hubs holding the hands of my kids.

A father’s hands represent protection.  They remind us that he will do everything in his power to protect us.

A father’s hands represents strength.  They show us that they will pull us up when we need help, but will let us go when it is time.

A father’s hands represent sacrifice.  They remind us of the hours that are put into providing for his family.

A father’s hands represent determination.  They show us that many things can be accomplished with hard work and a “never-give-up” attitude.

A father’s hands represent patience.  I am reminded of this everytime my husband allows the boys to “help” him with jobs around the house.

Our Heavenly Father’s hands bring such vivid pictures to mind.

I am reminded of the story in John of Thomas.

Remember, he was not with the other disciples that saw Christ after His resurrection.  Can you imagine the excitement and breathless wonder of the disciples as they tell Thomas that Christ is indeed risen like He said.

Then Thomas’ response is something like a “party pooper”.  “Yeah, well, except I see the nail prints in His hands and can put my hand in His side, I cannot believe a word you say.”

Nothing like putting a damper on a good mood.

Then 8 days later, the disciples are once again gathered together in a room with the door shut and the Lord miraculously walks into the room.

Thomas doesn’t believe even then it is Christ until Christ says to Thomas to touch the nail prints of His hands and thrust his in hand into Jesus’ side.

That’s when Thomas’ faith is restored.

In John 10, Jesus is talking to the Jews because they want proof that He is the promised Messiah.

Jesus explains to them that all the miracles He is doing is proof that He is the Messiah, yet they don’t believe because they are not His sheep.  In other words, they didn’t have a personal belief that He was the Messiah.

Jesus makes the statement that once we are His no one – not man or the powers of Satan – could pluck those who believe out of His Father’s Hands.

Our Heavenly Father’s hands show us His amazing love, His power over death, Hell, and Satan, His protection, and His gentleness.

As we come to Father’s Day, remember the lessons that can be taught our children by our Father’s hands.

Until next week,

Rebekah Klink

klink

 

 

 

 

Less Time Gives More Time

Truthsfortots Blog, Guest Blog , , , , 0 Comment

Daily Truth:    “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.”  Ecclesiastes 3:1

 

Summer time is finally here!

I love having the kids home for summer.

I love no set schedule.

I love the spontaneity of summer.

Maybe it’s because my kids are getting older and we are getting out of the toddler stage.

Or maybe it’s because my oldest will be starting junior high in the fall (a fact I am still trying to wrap my mind around).

Or maybe it’s because my youngest will be starting kindergarten in the fall (yet, another fact I am trying to grasp).

Or maybe it’s because I am slowly realizing how quickly the time with my children is flying by and what little time I have left with them.

Every summer the kids make a summer “wish list”.  This list can include things as simple as playing play dough to things more elaborate as taking a day trip.

Each summer we try to check off as many of those items as we can.

Here is what I plan to do.

1.  Less time on the computers more time playing. (I better get this blog done quickly!)

2.  Less time worrying about clean clothes more time playing in the rain.

3.  Less time keeping the house clean more time making messes.

4.  Less time saying “yes” to others and more time saying “no” to a schedule.

5.  Less time making a “to do” list more time playing with the children.

6.  Less time making plans more time making memories.

7. Less time getting my things done more time doing what the kids will like to do. (Thus their summer “wish list”.)

8.  Less time expecting more time laughing.

9.  Less time hurrying more time slowing down.

10.  Less time worrying and more time enjoying.

I will have time in the fall while all the kids are in school to “catch up” on things that should get done.

This summer take less time doing the ordinary things of life and take more time enjoying the extraordinary.

Until next week,

Rebekah

 

Praying Scripture for Our Families

Truthsfortots Blog, Guest Blog , , , 0 Comment

Daily Truth:   “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” James 5:16

Praying Scripture for our families is the most powerful weapon we have against our arch enemy – the devil. (Ephesians 6:11-18)

Praying Scripture for our families is the best gift a mother can give her children and her husband. (II Timothy 1:5)

Praying Scripture for our families enables us to come boldly to the throne room of our Heavenly Father. (Hebrews 4:16)

Praying Scripture for our families give us peace even in the midst of the most difficult trials. (John 14:27)

Praying Scripture for our families puts power behind God’s promises. (Isaiah 55:11)

Praying Scripture for our families strengthens our relationship both with our Heavenly Father as well as our children and husband. (Romans 8:15)

Praying Scripture for our family helps align our will with God’s will. (Matthew 26:42)

I could give personal examples for each of the reasons for praying Scripture for our families.  Time and space don’t permit me.  Believe me though, when I say that the Lord has shown me amazing things since I started this journey of praying Scripture for our families.

I am going to leave you with a few more tips on ways to implement praying Scripture for our families.

1.  Pray for a life verse for each member. When I started the process of praying Scripture for our families, I asked the Lord to give me specific life verses for each of my kids that I could pray for them.  Each verse that the Lord gave me fit that child specifically.

For instance, this is the verse the Lord gave me for my oldest.

Colossians 1:9-12

9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;

10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;

12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:

Ok.  So it’s a little long.  But this fit my oldest to a “T”.  I then wrote out the verse and pasted it to the back of my Bible.  I encourage you to do the same for each of your children and for your husband as well.

2.  Make a 31 day prayer booklet for your family.  This idea was given to me by a dear friend (thank the Lord for friends that encourage us in the faith).  I am going to work on it this summer.

Basically, you take a 3×5 card and write a verse to pray for your family that day.  Then, list each family member out and write next to their name a specific way you can pray that verse for them for that day.

3.  Get a prayer partner.  This has been the most amazing encouragement to me.  I have a couple of friends that we will text prayer requests back and forth (technology is amazing).  It is such a blessing to know that you have other people praying with you for your family.

4.  Tell your family.  I know this may seem redundant but tell your kids that you are praying scripture for them.  Be specific.

When my oldest went to Costa Rica on a mission trip over spring break, I was a little…ok…A LOT nervous about sending her even though we had complete confidence in the ladies she was going with.  But you know, it’s a mom thing.

So, I took  my fear and decided to use that to pray specific Scripture for her.  Before she left, I wrote her a card for each day with a different verse that I would pray for her that day.  One day it was on safety, another on witnessing, and so on.

She loved knowing the fact that not only was her mom praying for her but that I was praying specific promises for her each day.

I also let my husband know.  He has told me how much he appreciates it.  Often, I have no idea what his day is like, but the Lord brings certain verses to mind and the verses always seem to coincide with something that happened that day.  Amazing how God works that!

5.  Display the verse.  When praying Scripture for our families, be sure to display the verse that you are currently praying somewhere in the house.  It could be on a mirror, on a window, on paper on the fridge, on a chalkboard.

Ladies, may I encourage you to be not just mother’s of prayer, but mother’s praying Scripture for our families.

Found this poem on the internet the other day.  I don’t know who wrote it but I hope it is as much of blessing to you as it was to me.

Some have had kings in their lineage,
Some to whom honor was paid.
Not blest of my ancestors – but,
I have a mother who prays.
I have a mother who prays for me
And pleads with the Lord every day for me.
Oh what a difference it makes for me – 
I have a mother who prays.
Some have worldly success
And trust in riches they’ve made – 
This is my surest asset,
I have a mother who prays.
My mother’s prayers cannot save me,
Only mine can avail;
But mother introduced me to Someone – 
Someone who never could fail.
Oh yes..I have a mother who prays for me
And pleads with the Lord every day for me.
O what a difference it makes for me – 
I have a mother who prays.
Author Unknown

Until next week,

Rebekah

klink

 

How to Teach Children to Love One Another

Truthsfortots Blog, Cathy Jo's Blog , , , , 0 Comment

Daily Truth:   “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.”  John 13:34

Love One Another

 Encouraging children to help and serve others creates self confidence, exhibits love for one another, and takes the focus off of themselves.  In John chapter 13 of the Bible, Jesus tells us to love others as He has loved us.  Remind your child about how Jesus Christ died on the cross for everyone.  Share how God raised His only Son from the dead because He loves us and wants to spend eternity (forever) with us.  1 Corinthians 15:3-4  and Romans 8:38-39

Ten Ways to Teach Children to  Love to One Another

  1. Show love to each member of your family by making a “blessing can”.  Ask your children some ways in which they could help each other.  Write these ideas down, along with the child or parent’s name so they will know who to bless, and place on strips of paper which can then be placed in the “blessing can”.  Each child will pull a “blessing” paper from the can at least once a week (you may want to have a higher frequency) and complete the task or blessing for the person listed on the paper.  Teaching the other person to show appreciation is also a part of the lesson.
  2. Bake cookies for a shut in and take to them.  Attach a card that  tells how you appreciate them.
  3. May 1st is around the corner.  Make a May basket out of a paper plate and fill with paper flowers and hang on your neighbors’ doors.  Click here for directions
  4. Pray for those families who are on the mission field.  If those families have a prayer card keep in a card file for easy organization.  Each evening at dinner pull  a card from the box and pray for that family.  (At Christmas time pray for those families which have sent Christmas cards to your family.)
  5. When a missionary visits your church invite them over for dinner.  Get to know them and their needs.  It will bring their ministry to life for your family.  Prayers will be more specific and special.
  6. Plan a family missionary trip.  Really see what the missionaries are doing.  Your family will be a blessing to the missionary and you will be blessed too.  You do not need to go overseas, there are many missionary ministry needs near you.
  7. Plan a “Five Day Club” at your home this summer.  Child Evangelism Fellowship will provide the leaders, lessons, and other Bible materials.  All you need to provide are the children, place, an hour of your day, and a snack.
  8. Sponsor a child through an organization of your choice.  There are many children throughout the world that have daily physical and spiritual needs.  Getting to know an individual child and meeting their needs is a blessing for everyone.
  9. Visit your local food pantry with your children.  See what needs they have and how your family can help.
  10. Read missionary biographies to your children.  The Heroes for Young Readers Series is a collection of individual missionary biographies.

Kisses from Katie, written by Katie Davis, is a wonderful parental read to see how one parent surrendered their child to serve on a mission field and also illustrates how a young woman follows God’s calling to love others in a different country.  A lovely quote from this book, “…love is the reason I just keep filling up my little eyedropper, keep filling up and emptying my ocean one drop at a time I’m not here to eliminate poverty, to eradicate disease, to put a stop to people abandoning babies. I’m just here to love.”

To share the love and message of Jesus Christ is the best thing we can teach our children.

What ideas do you have in teaching your children to love and serve others?

Until the next “Truth” sharing moment,

Cathy Jo Johnson

 

 

 

 

Praying Scripture for Your Children

Truthsfortots Blog, Guest Blog , , , , 0 Comment
Daily Truth:  “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness”  II Timothy 3:16

 

 

Before Easter, I suggested we start praying scripture for our children.

When I started this a few weeks ago, I started pondering reasons that I should be praying scripture for my children.  I came up with 5 reasons although I am sure there are others.

Do you have your journals ready?

WARNING:  There are going to be days that the devil is going to cause you to doubt the validity of praying scripture for your children.  You need to be able to grab these verses quickly.  Nothing will defeat the lies of the devil faster than God’s Word of Truth!

1.  Satan wants our children.  Satan knows that the only thing we can take to Heaven with us are those things we do for Christ here on earth.  Our mission as mom’s is to raise our children in a way that would honor Christ.  So, don’t you think Satan will stop at nothing to get our children?

“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”  Ephesians 6:2

“And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat”  Luke 22:31

 

2.  We are commanded to pray for our children.

“Arise, cry out in the night: in the beginning of the watches pour out thine heart like water before the face of the Lord: lift up thy hands toward him for the life of thy young children”  Lamentations 2:19

“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints”  Ephesians 6:18

Although these verses aren’t direct commands for praying scripture for our children, the command is there to pray.

I had never seen this verse in Lamentations before.  In chapter 2 God is describing His wrath being poured out on His people for their sins.  However, verse 19 can still be used for us today. We need to, as mother’s be willing to pour out our hearts to God and lift to Him the lives of our young children.  The picture of a mother overcome with grief for the life of her children is such a strong image.

 

3.  We receive God’s power and have direct access to God.

“The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much”  James 5:16

The Amplified Bible translates it as follows:  “The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working”

Imagine – when we pray earnestly and continually we are tapping into God’s power!  Praying scripture for our children gives us promises that we can claim for our children and that is powerful!

“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”  Hebrews 4:16

We are to come boldly (fearlessly) before God’s throne when praying scripture for our children.  He is not a God or King to cower in fear from.  He wants to hear our petitions.

 

4.  Scripture is God’s Word.  I know this seems obvious.  But think about it ladies.  When we are praying scripture we are praying God’s actual words to Him.  We are praying His promises.  God says that He is not slack concerning His promises.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God”  John 1:1

Excuse the length of this next passage.  However, once again the word picture is too beautiful to ignore.

“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater:

So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.”  Isaiah 55:9-11

 

5.  God’s Word is powerful.

“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”  Hebrews 4:12

The image here is of one going to battle against their fiercest enemy.  Remember the first point in praying scripture for our children?  We are battling the Prince of the Air.  He is our fiercest enemy.   Praying Scripture is that sword that we need to battle Satan.

Take that blue highlighter (or whatever color) and go through your Bible and highlight these verses.

Then dig deeper and find other verse that you can use to support these reasons for praying scripture for our children.

Until Next Week,

Rebekah

klink

 

 

It Is Finished: Jesus’ Last Words on the Cross

Truthsfortots Blog, Cathy Jo's Blog , , , , , 0 Comment

Daily Truth:   “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave  up His spirit. John 19:30

Silhouettes of Three Crosses

“It is finished!”  What powerful last words spoken by Jesus on the cross.   He had completed all that was asked of Him by God the Father.

Do we follow what God asks of us?  At the end of our lives we want to hear, “Well done thou good and faithful servant.”  We want to be great  wives, moms, and grandmothers.  Yet, how much time to spend on daily physical chores and neglect taking care of our own daily spiritual growth which affects our relationships to those we love most on this earth?

Maybe we should think about each day when it is finished and reflect on the questions like: What did I do for eternity today?,  What did I do to point my child or grandchild toward Christ? Did I spend time reading God’s Word today? Did I ask God for wisdom in situations that arose today?

As the mother of 3 children within 27 months I remember those days when I thought I was doing good to get meals on the table (well highchair, table, and bouncy chair as I tapped that with my foot while feeding the child in the highchair), clean clothes and house, toys somewhat put away, three baths, and then bedtime stories as my head began to nod.

In these days of Covid 19, families are doing much more than just the normal routines.  Some are teaching, working from home, trying to figure out what to cook with the ingredients they have…and the list goes on.

God has a way of getting our attention in a dramatic way sometimes and this is one of those times.   The entire world is looking around and really realizing all the planning and organization is totally out of our control.  Except, we can control what we think upon and act upon.  It makes me think of the verse, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” (Isaiah 26:3)

The most important thing we can do is to point our children to Christ.  It’s not about a clean house, playgroups, great meals, jobs, or volunteer  work in our community or church.  The most important thing we can to do is to tell our children about Christ and to show them how much He loved us.  Parenting, in all our lives, needs to  more intentional about teaching Christ.

Times  are crazy, or are they?   God has slowed us down so we can spend time learning and then teaching about God and His love to our families.  Children learn at such an early age.  Remember Moses was allowed to stay with his mother until he was finished nursing.  My how much she must have taught him before he went to live full time in the king’s court.

Times are busy and yes chaotic  but God is faithful and always provides wisdom and encouragement when  we ask.   We can grow spiritually with our children if we humble ourselves, apply God’s Word to ourselves and put our trust in Jesus Christ.  He loves us and died that we could have everlasting life.

Our life is not finished until God says that it is finished.  May we all learn God’s Word and ways and impart it to the next generation.

As we reflect today on this weekend and what Jesus Christ did for us on the cross may we see the great love and compassion that He showed us.  May we all share that love with the children God has placed in our lives. May we accomplish all that Jesus asks us to do and have a willing spirit to follow wherever God may lead us.  May we finish well.

Mark 10:27 “But Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible.'”

Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Until the next “Truth” sharing moment,

Cathy Jo Johnson