Encouraging an “I Spy” Desire to Read God’s Word

God’s Word is a mirror. It reveals the things I can’t see with my own eyes. It changes my lenses and helps me see the obvious as well as what’s hidden. If I can get my children to hunger after God’s Word, I have done something that will serve to open my child’s eyes in ways only His Spirit can. If they develop a thirst for reading the Bible, they will find a well that springs eternal life.  Continue reading Encouraging an “I Spy” Desire to Read God’s Word

Strength, Dignity, and What Not to Wear

In the late 1970s, a popular singer-songwriter crooned a top-twenty tune with his definition of womanhood. According to this artist, the woman on his pedestal was amazing. Her smile could kill, and her gaze could slice. She was quick with a lie, focused on her own agenda, and could cast shadows with the best of them. 

This lady was a force and if you didn’t appreciate her attributes, well, get out of the way. To this woman of questionable accomplishments, the words, “She is clothed with strength and dignity,” would have sounded like a garbled, unknown language. Continue reading Strength, Dignity, and What Not to Wear

Choosing to Walk in His Joy

The Holy Spirit watches over us and whispers (sometimes loudly) when our heart begins to overlook sin. Our first responsibility as parents is to be sure our relationship with Christ is one that is personal and vibrant. 

We are also called to be a beacon of truth to our children. He has given us the responsibility of flashing the caution light when our little humans behave as humans do.

Is your preschooler demanding his way? Pride makes our little human believe he deserves what he wants when he wants it. Teach him to see other people in the room as more important than himself. “What? You mean I’m not the center of the universe?”

Acknowledge. Repent. Walk in His joy. Continue reading Choosing to Walk in His Joy

Welcomed by God

The lock turned and I held my breath. Slowly, slowly the front door creaked open and my daughter-in-law’s smiling face peeked into the gap.

“Look,” I whispered to my grandson. He faced me with his little back turned away from the entrance. His blue eyes raised to mine, puzzled. “Mommy’s home.” I pointed toward the door. 

A red car which had traveled in his little hands from my shoe, up my leg, and had been heading toward my tummy, dropped to the floor. He pivoted. Little eyes lit up with pure delight. 

“Mommy!” He shouted with absolute pleasure. He ran into his mother’s arms. My daughter-in-law’s eyes sparkled. She scooped him up and hugged him tightly.  

After a long day of work, the sight of her little son brought such welcome delight, my grandson could not help but be assured of her love and his place in her heart. Their response to each other gifted them both with something we all desire.

We need to know we are welcome. Continue reading Welcomed by God