Will Your Adult Children Want To Spend Time With You?

A while back in one of our couples classes at church I remember the leaders of our class asking this question and it really stuck with me. "Will your adult children want to spend time with you? Will they want to come home?" Seriously think about that for a moment. Will your adult children want to come home and spend time with you? When we are raising our children everything doesn't have to be perfect at home. They don't have to always be showered with gifts. Everything doesn't always have to go their way (in fact, it shouldn't).

It is our job as good parents to make sure they always feel loved, always feel wanted, and always feel important. The way we treat our children today is more than likely a direct result of the way we were raised ourselves. Many of us have had wonderful childhoods and were raised with a tremendous amount of love and family togetherness and that way of life seems to just oooze from us onto our own children.  To continue reading head on over to "A Heart For The Home" blog where I am contributing today. 

What's A Mom To Do About Santa?

Christmas is my favorite holiday of the year. I love baking lots of yummy delicious goodies and filling the house with the smells of so many wonderful foods. I love getting together with family and friends, going to look at lights, decorating the house and just enjoying time spent celebrating the birth of our Savior. 

From the time our boys were very young my husband and I felt strongly that we should not lead them to believe in the Santa of today.  You know the one - he's the plump jolly man wearing a red suit with a long white beard.  The man that visits the houses of good little boys and good little girls all over the world in one single night all on his own.  The Santa that lives at the North Pole with all the Elves that work in his toy factory.  (That whole thing is a bit creepy if you think about it, lol). 

We have taught them about the real St. Nicholas.  The real life man that lived long ago.  The man that even though he is gone, his story of love and selfless deeds live on.  Each year we read the same book a few days before Christmas telling of this man, this real life man that helped people in need. 

No, we have never encouraged the thought "Santa Clause ". Why, you may ask? It's simple.  He doesn't exist and he has nothing to do with my children getting or not getting gifts under the tree at Christmas.  Instead we have always taught our boys that every good gift we receive comes to us from God and Jesus.  That's the truth.  It's in the Bible.  James 1:17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

Now, let me explain our reasoning.  We are doing our best to fulfill Proverbs 22:6 that says to train our children in the way they should go and when they are old they will not depart from these teachings.  We are teaching them about Jesus and His Heavenly Father God (who we can not see with our physical eye).  We have to use our faith to believe what the Bible says and that they are real.  Hebrews 11:3 By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.

At the same time if we were teaching them that Santa (who we can see with our physical eye) is real but then one day down the road, when they get a little older they find out that we were not being truthful with them and that Santa isn't really the one that brought them all those gifts through out the years (and they will find out Santa is not real) then wouldn't it stand to reason that they would then have a reason to also believe that Jesus isn't real as well. 

I mean if we teach our children from a young age that two different people are real and then one day we admit that no, mommy and daddy told you a lie and one of those people isn't real what do you imagine it does to them.  Allowing our children to believe in the Santa of today may be harmless but for my children I never wanted to give them a reason not to believe in God and His Son Jesus.  And I never wanted to lie (that's what it is after all) to my kids either.

This is the choice we have made for our family and I in no way judge you for how you may have chosen to go about the whole "Santa" thing.  I still have a few decorations or ornaments that have Santa on them but we have always made sure that the focus is on Jesus (He is the Reason for the Season) and that my children know where our blessings come from.

What about you?  How does your family handle the whole Santa part of Christmas?

It's The Little Things

When I first became a mom I started to envision what life would look like in the future. My husband and I had already decided I would stay home and knowing that I began to plan what I thought our days would look like. I would be dressed and have my hair and make up fixed daily. The house would be spotless (I stayed home all day, why would it not be?). Everything would be perfectly organized and in order. Dinner would be served promptly when daddy came home from work, dishes and kitchen put back together immediately following our meal. Kids would always be well behaved.  And once they started school I had the dream of them coming home and walking through the door just as I was pulling a freshly baked batch of chocolate chip cookies from the oven for them to have as an after school snack.

 

Then one day I realized that I am not super mom. I do not have special powers and try as hard as I might sometimes what I think is going to happen or should happen is the furthest thing from reality.  I can't do everything.  I can't get everything done and I rarely ever am pulling fresh cookies out of my oven upon the arrival of my kiddos coming home from school.

But there is something that I do each and every day for my children without fail.  I love them.  Not just in word but in deed.  It's the little things.  It's the waking them up by rubbing their backs and singing goofy wake up songs to them.  It's taking the time to help them with their homework.  It's sitting together as a family reading a book or playing a board game.  It's sitting at the table eating together.  It's praying together.  It's cheering them on while they play their favorite sport.  It's laughing with them and sometimes laughing at them.  It's the helping them up when they are down.  It's the hug.  It's tucking them in at night (even though they are teenagers).  And yes, it's saying I love you - a lot and often.  No, I'm not super mom but I have come to find out that my kids didn't ask for nor do they need or want a super mom.  They want a mom that loves them unconditionally and a mom that pays attention to the little things.

Everyone Has A Purpose

My boys have played soccer since they were very small.  Through the years they have both played probably every position possible on a variety of different teams.  One thing that was always important to them was getting to be up front so they could score a goal.  Of course everyone wants to make a goal, that is the person on the team that is up front and gets much praise but we often forget that it takes the whole team to achieve the actual goal. 

It's much the same way in the body of Christ.  Everyone has a part to play.  And that part is very important.  I Corinthians 12 says that God places each one us in the body of Christ where it is pleasing to him.

I Corinthians 12:27-31
²⁷ Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. ²⁸ And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues. ²⁹ Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? ³⁰ Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues^[d]? Do all interpret? ³¹ Now eagerly desire the greater gifts.

Not everyone is called to be a pastor. Not everyone is called to be a miracle worker or prophet but we all have a purpose and a calling.  We can't all have the spot light on us. In fact many of us are very far from the spot light among the sticky floors, dirty faced little ones, sinks full of dishes and piles of laundry we have. We all can make a difference though. I have prayed before, Lord what is my purpose? How am I supposed to share Jesus with anyone when I am home all day long alone with just my babies?  Then, one day I got my answer. I am making a difference in the life of a child, my child and prayerfully in the lives of all the other children they come in contact with.  Also, I pray that this blog will make a difference in some small way in your life. 

Jesus said in Mark 16:15  He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.  No, we can't all have the spot light on us but we are all called to take the gospel to lost and hurting.  We are all called to share Jesus.

Do you ever feel like you are not making a difference?  Remember we all have a part, we all have a purpose. I encourage you to pray and ask God to show you what your part is for this season of life you are in.

Is Social Media Taking Over Family Time?

Modern technology is amazing. I mean think about it for a minute. At no other time in history have people been so connected with one another. Information travels from one person to the next at record breaking speed. 

 

When I was first married cell phones were the coolest thing. Not the kind we have now, the kind that were mounted on the inside of your vehicle. When my oldest son was born, cell phones had evolved somewhat and were something that you could carry with you. They were HUGE but you could carry them with you. Email was a neat way to contact friends and family to stay updated on the latest family news.

Today, just a few short years later we live in the age of self portraits, likes and status updates. Many of us live out our lives day by day to our readers, followers, family and friends.

To continue reading the rest of this post head on over to A Heart For The Home where I am contirbuting today. 

A Mommy Mess Up Over Donuts?!?!

A few years ago I decided that instead of just the basic birthday celebration for my kids (and husband too) that I would go a bit further.  Birthday Donuts.  Yep, birthday donuts - a treat that we don't buy very often so it was perfect.  The birthday boy gets a special donut on the morning of his birthday on our special "happy birthday" plate that I made a few years back at the pottery place in town complete with a candle for him to blow out as I sing "Happy Birthday" at the breakfast table.  Sounds great, huh?  Well it is and they really enjoy it - all except maybe for my singing.  I enjoy really making the birthday boy feel special on his special day. 

But what happens when I forget?  Oh yea, I forgot.  To be real honest (here comes my excuse, lol) last week was very busy.  I had a house to clean before company came over this past weekend, I had a cake to bake, birthday presents and supplies for a small family party to buy.  My oldest son had a total 5 soccer games spread out over 3 days and soccer practice like normal all the other days of the week/weekend and games to referee over the weekend.  My youngest son had soccer practice and soccer games.  We were planning for a sleepover and bonfire and coordinating how I was getting all the boys to their games on time and....  I forgot.  I meant to run and get the donuts on Saturday after the third soccer game was over but my head hurt and I needed to go home and oh yea, I forgot.  I forgot about the donuts.  I didn't mean to but I did.  

I forgot about the donuts until Sunday morning, the day of my baby boys actual birthday.  And not just any birthday, his 13th birthday.  The birthday where he officially turns into a teenager.  This momma was really hoping that he would just forget about this "family birthday tradition" at least this year.  We were in a rush as usual and trying to get out the door in time to get to church.  I quickly made him a small bottle of milk and grabbed a granola bar from the pantry.  When we all got in the van to head to church I reached behind me and handed him his milk and a granola bar and it was then that the look on his face told me quickly that he had not forgot.  Though he didn't say a word, the look on his face and in his eyes showed total disappointment.  I said nothing.  We went on to church.  The day went on.

Late in the evening when I was loving on my boy, I apologized to him.  I still didn't say anything to him about his breakfast and although we had a party with family and few friends on Friday evening I felt like I didn't do enough or make a big enough deal of his actual birthday.  It was then he looked me right in the eyes and pressed his nose against mine and said "you forgot my donuts".  This momma felt like a dog.  I then apologized for the donuts and explained that mommy had good intentions to get them but ultimately I forgot.  He was so forgiving and understanding and said "that's ok" which I was thankful for but I knew deep inside it bothered him.  I knew deep inside he was disappointed. 

So today, the day after his birthday I ran out and bought him a dozen glazed donuts and one special donut with sprinkles just for him.

They were more of an after school snack this time but I think he was happy, even if they were late. 

And to you dear mommy, even when you mess up or when things don't go exactly like you might have planned - forgive yourself and move on.  If given the opportunity do something else to help smooth things over, go for it but if you can't don't be so hard on yourself.  Our kids love us and even when they are disappointed they will forgive. 

Have you ever been in a place where you have disappointed your kiddos?

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Young Faith and Answered Prayers

1 Peter 5:7 says Casting the ^[a]whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, ^[b]once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you ^[c]watchfully. 

I have always told my boys that God cares about everything in our lives.  EVERYTHING!  Not just the big moments but all the moments, all the trials (no matter the size), all the ups and downs that we experience He wants to be a part of them.  God is always there to help us.  I have shared several instances with my boys about how God has answered prayers for me concerning things that I have misplaced and really needed to find over the years.  I have searched and searched for things and in my own strength find nothing but when I remember that God wants to help me and I put my faith in Him and pray the results are always much different. 

Mark 11:22-24 says
²² And Jesus, replying, said to them, Have faith in God [constantly].

²³ Truly I tell you, whoever says to this mountain, Be lifted up and thrown into the sea! and does not doubt at all in his heart but believes that what he says will take place, it will be done for him.

²⁴ For this reason I am telling you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe (trust and be confident) that it is granted to you, and you will [get it].

 

 

A few weeks ago my oldest son that had been entrusted with a set of house keys lost them.  He has had them for over a year now and has done so well to always keep up with them but suddenly they were gone.  We looked, he looked, I looked.  Inside, outside, in buildings, cars, the house, furniture - everywhere we could think of.  We called Grandparents to see if possibly they had been left at their homes and still nothing.  So, I told Joey that unless he found his keys we would have to replace locks on our doors because I didn't like the idea of a set of keys just floating around out there somewhere.

A while later I heard our side door close and so I walked down the hallway to see who was coming or going and there standing just inside the door grinning from ear to ear and holding his set of lost keys in his hand was my handsome 15 year old son.  He said that after I told him we would have to replace the locks on the house he remembered what I had told him and he decided to pray.  He prayed "God, I really don't want my parents to have to replace all the locks on the house I just need to find my keys.  Will you please help me remember where I had them last?"  Then he said he had this overwhelming sense of urgency to go out to his daddy's vehicle and look, so he did and that is where he found his keys.  We rejoiced and Praised Our Heavenly Father together for helping with this small thing in reality but a big thing to us. 

 

Not only did he use his faith and pray but he listened to that small still voice deep down inside and that is when he got the answer to his prayer. 

I have encouraged many people over the years to pray and trust God even in the small things and as a result I have heard several Praise Reports.  Your answer doesn't always manifest immediately but God will help you if you just put your faith in Him, trust him and Pray and then be quiet a while and listen for your answer. 
 

Just say No

In today's world everyone seems so busy.  People have become so busy that family meal time at the kitchen table is becoming a thing of the past.

Time spent just sitting with family and friends enjoying each others company is hard to do when you are over committed and always on the go running from one activity or event to another.  Believe me I know all too well about running from one thing to another.   

Volunteering at church, at both of my children's schools, helping family, keeping up with sports practices, conditioning and games not to mention keeping your laundry caught up, your house in some kind of decent order, feeding your family, helping with homework or homeschooling can lead to an exhausted, worn out mommy.

And while these things are not necessarily bad things and a lot of them are important sometimes we just have to learn to say no to certain things in order to keep our priorities straight and first things first.

I encourage you to look at your schedule and really re-evaluate it. Pray about the things you are involved with and allow God to help you determine the things that are truly important and then say no to the things that aren't.

The past few years I have really stopped volunteering as much for things because I was seeing that my family was suffering. I still volunteer at my kids school on occasion when I am needed. I still help at our church but in a much less time consuming ministry than before.   I still help with things but I have really gotten to a place where right now in this season of my life  "being over" something or in charge is just not my thing.  I am enjoying being a helper and letting other people take the lead.  This allows me the maximum amount of time with my husband, kids and to take care of our home.

I mean after all what is going to matter when this life is over? All of your volunteering and busy work? No, what will matter is the time you spent with your family, with your kids teaching and training them in the way they should go.   What will matter is were you saved? Was Jesus Lord of your life, of your home and of your children's lives?

We need to slow down, say no to the busy-ness that the devil would like to see take over our lives and work on building a relationship with our Lord and with our family. 

Are you over committed?

Summer Slump

It's the time of year where schedules shouldn't matter, fun is supposed to abound.  Lazy days spent relaxing pool side, picnicing and doing what we want when we want.  Right???  Apparently it's time to wake up from the fantasy world I am living in.

Because Summer is slipping by once again. Every year I have plans in my head of all the fun and great things I am going to do with my boys over their summer break from school and every year I fail miserably at making those plans a reality. Life gets in the way. Between family reunions, soccer conditioning and practices, church camp, summer mowing jobs for the boys and just normal everyday keeping the house in good working order, the frig and cabinets stocked, dinner on the table and laundry done it really doesn't leave a whole lot of idle time. Late nights turn into lazy days and My plans of going swimming 2 or 3 days a week, going to the free bowling or free movies each week, the local art museum, camping and camp fires along with several other ideas just don't seem to turn out the way I had hoped.

 

But then I remember back to my childhood and summer vacation. I was always so happy to be out of school for a while that it honestly didn't matter if I did anything but hang out at home, it was fun because I didn't have to wake early and go to school all day. Don't get me wrong either. I liked school and I graduated with honors but everyone needs some time off every now and then.  And as I was lovingly reminded by a dear friend My boys are not complaining so obviously it doesn't matter that much to them and I am sure they are like I was years ago too and I am sure just having a break from the routine that grips our days most of the year is a relief.

I guess I am just in a Summer Slump.  The days are passing by way too fast and another school year is looming on the horizon for my precious boys.  With each passing summer brings the reality to this momma that her little boys are no longer little but are half grown men and I (**tears in my eyes**) am not ready for that.  Not yet.  I just want them to slow down and be "my babies" for a little while longer. 

I do not want to bring anyone down with this post but I am feeling a little sad lately (it hits me every year about this time) but rather I want to encourage you as I am trying hard to encourage myself to make the most of each day with your children whether you homeschool or your kids go to public school - make the most of your days.  And I don't even mean running from here to there trying to fill of their time with activities but rather just really connecting with your kids.  Spend time talking with them and laughing with them.  Sit down for a meal together and unplug from the world if only just for a moment to soak in these precious fleeting moments that are here today but will gone tomorrow.  My bloggy friend Nan from Moms the Word blog says in her about me "My kids were ages one and five just yesterday. I know it. Somehow they just grew overnight."  Her children are now grown young men in their twenties.  I am on the other side of that statement a little bit and I can see the reality of her words very clear that soon I will be where she is and my boys fully grown.  I don't want to look back with regret of not spending every moment possible enjoying my time with them. 

Do You Pray For Your Children?

I am linking up this week again with Courtney Joseph from Women Living Well for her series on Top Ten Quotes on Marriage and Motherhood.

This week I wanted to share several passages out of one of my all time favorite books.  This book has helped me find just the right prayer to pray for my boys many times.  If you are a parent then you definitely need this book. 

The book is The Power of a Praying Parent by Stormie Omartian.  I have an ongoing series here on my blog that I started nearly a year ago where I go through this book chapter by chapter.  Stormie's book is packed full of powerful information and scripture to stand on while praying our children through life. 

Here are my top five favorite quotes taken out of Chapter 1 - yep, it's that good.  The following quotes are taken from the first chapter of the book.

"For it's the power of God that penetrates a child's life when a parent prays."

"When we don't pray, it's like saying we have no need of anything outside of ourselves."

"God knows our thoughts and our needs, but He responds to our prayers."

"It's not enough to pray only for the concerns of the moment;  we need to pray for the future, and we need to pray against the effects of past events."

"In fact, we don't even have to be parents.  We can be a friend, a teacher, a grandparent, an aunt, a cousin, a neighbor, a guardian, or even a stranger with a heart of compassion or concern for a child.  The child may be someone we hear of or read about in the newspaper;  the child may even be an adult for whom we have a mother's or father's heart.  If you're aware of a child who doesn't have a praying parent, you can step into the gap right now and answer that need.  You can effect a change in the life of any child you care about.  All it takes is a heart that says, "God, show me how to pray in a way that will make a difference in this child's life."  Then begin with the prayers in this book and see where the Holy Spirit leads you."

So my question to you this week:  "Do You Pray For Your Children?" 

National Day of Prayer 2013

What exactly is National Day of Prayer?

The National Day of Prayer is a special day set aside in our country where people gather together at churches, schools, courthouses, etc... and publicly pray. Our Country was founded by primarily Christian men and it was and has always been a Nation that is blessed by God. We are a Christian Nation, founded on a belief in THE ONE TRUE GOD. We are blessed to be able to call on the Name of Jesus in a Public Place without fear of retribution.

National Day of Prayer was established by Congress in 1952 and signed into Law by President Harry Truman but The Continental Congress had called for such a day going all the way back to 1775.  In 1988 President Ronald Reagan amended the law to make the National Day of Prayer the first Thursday in May.

The Honorable the Congress having recommended it to the United States to set apart Thursday the 6th of May next to be observed as a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer, to acknowledge the gracious interpositions of Providence; to deprecate [to pray or intreat that a present evil may be removed] deserved punishment for our Sins and Ingratitiude, to unitedly implore the Protection of Heaven; Success to our Arms and the Arms of our Ally: The Commander in Chief enjoins a religious observance of said day and directs the Chaplains to prepare discourses proper for the occasion; strictly forbidding all recreations and unnecessary labor.” —George Washington, First President of the United States[10][11] (Quote taken from Wikpedia)  

The National Day of Prayer task forces mission statement is this:

The mission of the National Day of Prayer Task Force is to mobilize prayer in America and to encourage personal repentance and righteousness in the culture.

This morning I drove my youngest son to school so that I could attend The National Day of Prayer event being held there.  What an honor and a privilege to be able to do such a thing.  I remind my kids often how blessed they are to be able to attend things like this or their Bible Clubs and Prayer Groups.  Not even in America are all schools ok with it.  We are blessed.

I urge you today to take time out to pray.  It doesn't matter if you live in the United States or not.  It also doesn't matter if you are able to attend a public event (although it will bless your heart if you can).  What does matter is that we take some time today and every day to talk with our Heavenly Father.  Take time to call upon the Name of Jesus and pray for our elected leaders, our military, our schools, communities and our children.

Do you attend any Public National Day of Prayer Events?

Destroying an Inheritance of Family Bondage

Chapter 22

In the book Stormie says that we all know we get our hair and eye color from our parents or grandparents but did you know that we also pickup character qualities too?

When some people think of family bondage they think of alcohol, drugs and depression.  Things that are life threatening and life altering for the family for many generations but did you know that things such as lying, unforgiveness, perfectionism and a bad temper can also be an inherited trait?

As an adult I see many character qualities in my parents that I do not wish to mimic. But we also need to look at our own lives and consider our character qualities and think is this something we would rather our own children not inherit.

For example: 

Do you have a tendency to stretch the truth?

Do you cuss?

Do you smoke or chew tobacco?

Do you tell dirty jokes?

Do you have hatred for someone in your heart?

Are you happy or do you exhibit anger?

Are you selfish, always thinking of yourself?

People will look at this list and think "well saying a little cuss word every now and then doesn't hurt"  but those same people would punish their children for saying the "little" cuss word.

 

And I am not saying that chewing tobacco or smoking is a sin and will send you to hell but I am saying if you chew tobacco then there is a much greater chance that your children will also.  We should not want our children to be bound in any way.  Not bound to smoking or drinking or lying or being selfish, etc...

Seriously think about your behavior and character traits and if they are something you want your children to inherit from you.  I want to leave a good inheritance to my children. 

Proverbs 13:22 says  A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children,  but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous.

A Heart For My Home

Where is your heart? 

Where is your treasure?

Matthew 6:21 says For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Before I go further in the is post - let me say that my Number 1 Treasure is found in God and The relationship (not religion) that I have with him. 

This blog is titled A Heart For My Home because truly that is where my heart is.  My Heart is at Home and my Treasure also is at home. 

No, My treasure isn't found in the stick built house we call home.  My treasure is not the little trinkets or decorations that adorn the tables and walls inside my house and it's not in the food that is prepared here on a daily basis. 

My Treasure at Home is My Family. The Family that God has so richly Blessed Me With.  My Husband - a godly man, the Leader of our Home,  my best friend.   My Sons - that I am a steward over for the Lord - the ones I am working on building and shaping into Mighty Men of God that are Gonna Shake Future Generations for Jesus.  

In today's world so many people treasure the wrong things.  The big house they live in, the newest car to drive, name brand clothes, flat screen tv's in every room and all the cool gadgets of the day.  Don't get me wrong here - there is nothing wrong with having all of these things, God wants us blessed so we can be a blessing to others but what God doesn't want is for our treasure to be in earthly good's. 

3 John 1:2  Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in every way and [that your body] may keep well, even as [I know] your soul keeps well and prospers.

Matthew 6:19-21  ¹⁹ “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. ²⁰ But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. ²¹ For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

I encourage you to examine your heart today and really think about what you treasure.  Do you enjoy taking care of your family?  Do you love the mundane tasks of cooking, cleaning, laundry, grocery shopping, running errands, etc... 

In Titus 2, Woman are called to love their husbands and children and be keepers at home among other things.

My job is at home.  My heart is at home.  My treasure is at home.

Titus 2:4-5 ⁴ Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, ⁵ to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.

Where is your Heart? 

Inviting the Joy of the Lord

Praying Parent - Week 21

Are your children happy? 

I can say yes, my children are normally happy and joyful.  Of course there are times when they don't get their way and for a time they are not so happy but it quickly passes. 

I do my best every morning to wake my children with a smile on my face and in some goofy way.  I am usually singing some silly wake up song to them (yes even at 12 and 14) because that is just who I am.  I try to make our mornings flow smoothly because I am with them a total of about 35 minutes each morning before they hurry off to catch the bus to school.  I hear friends say and read posts on facebook all the time about how awful their morning was and that really makes me sad.  I try so hard to keep the house happy and upbeat of the morning because I NEVER want to send my kids off away from me in a bad, sad, unhappy, not joyful mood.  Now, I am not perfect and of course there has probably been the rare occasion that they have left mad or upset but it is definitely not the norm.  I love them and God gave them to me and my husband to be a good stewards over. God wants our children to be happy and full of joy.

But guess what?  No matter how hard I try to keep them happy and joyful - true joy doesn't come from me or how "GREAT" I try to make their mornings.  True joy and happiness comes from God.

John 15:10-11
I have obeyed my Father’s commands, and I remain in his love. In the same way, if you obey my commands, you will remain in my love. ¹¹ I have told you these things so that you can have the same joy I have and so that your joy will be the fullest possible joy.

Psalm 16:11 
You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy, at Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore.

Romans 15:13
 I pray that the God who gives hope will fill you with much joy and peace while you trust in him. Then your hope will overflow by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Isaiah 61:10
I am overwhelmed with joy in the Lord my God!  For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness.  I am like a bridegroom in his wedding suit or a bride with her jewels.

Pray for your children to remain full of the Joy of the Lord. Teach them that the way we have and keep this joy of the Lord is by staying in His presence and by realizing that He is all we really need.

Receiving a Sound Mind - Praying for our Children

Week 20

The same verse I used last week 2 Timothy 1:7 applies just as much to this week.  We have not been given a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind. 

Stormie says in her book that a large part of having a sound mind is controlling what goes in it and she is absolutely right.  1 Corinthians 2:16(b) But we have the mind of Christ.

We have always tried to be so very careful with our boys and what we allow them to watch, to listen to, read and so on.  We are careful of where they go and who they hang around also. 

It has been several years ago now my youngest son started having some issues.  He was all of the sudden having bad dreams.  He became scared of the dark.  He started having bad thoughts about people and about things happening.  He was seriously being tormented in his little mind.  My husband and I prayed with him and did our best to reassure him that everything was fine.  We told him he wasn't a bad boy for having bad thoughts because the devil will put all kinds of bad thoughts in our minds but we have to do what the Word says and take every thought into captivity.  2 Corinthians 10:5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.  Meaning we judge every thought that hits our mind and ask ourselves some questions - Is this thought life giving?  Is this thought good?  Is this thought loving, kind, peaceful and all the things that God is?  If not then we know that the thought did not come from our Father God.  When dark, bad thoughts come to our minds that is not a sin.  If we do not rightly judge those thoughts and we act on them then we sin. 

My husband and I retraced our sons steps back over the previous couple of weeks thinking about where he went, who he was around and what he did.  After asking our son many questions we found out that the family of a little boy he had stayed the night with watched some things on television and did some things that we did not approve of at all.  1 Thessalonians 5:22 Abstain from evil [shrink from it and keep aloof from it] in whatever form or whatever kind it may be.  The door had been opened to Satan in the short amount of time that he was with them to put these un godly thoughts into my young sons mind and he didn't know how to handle them.   Ephesians 4:27 says Leave no [such] room or foothold for the devil [give no opportunity to him].

The point of me telling you this is to let you know the importance of praying for our children and guarding their hearts against the enemy.  Do not allow Satan to have any access to your children.  Be careful of where they go, who they are with, what they watch, listen to and read.  It may seem silly to some but I know from experience that when we give the enemy an inch he will take it and lets not forget that he comes to kill, steal and destroy.  John 10:10 The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it ^[a]overflows).

Enjoying Freedom from Fear - Praying for our Children

Week 19

Enjoying Freedom from Fear

When I think about fear or being afraid one thing comes to mind.  Thunder Storms.  I am not a fan.  When I was a child they terrified me then as a teenager they didn't seem to bother me so much but after I got married and became a mother the fear and terror from them returned.  Part of what scared me so much the fact that for the first almost 14 years of my marriage we lived in a single wide trailer and I never felt completely secure there.  Everything was so loud and magnified when it was storming - the wind, the rain - oh the pounding rain.  The wind sounded like it was tearing our home apart.  I kept ear plugs in my night stand drawer that I used at night every time it stormed just to help me sleep. 

My mother always told me that her mother (my grandmother) was afraid of storms and that must be where I got it from.  While I loved my Grandmother - that is one thing I didn't want from her.  That is a generational curse that I do not want any part of. 

Being a mom changes things so much.  While on the inside I might be filled with fear - on the outside I couldn't let it show.  I have to encourage my boys and reassure them that everything is fine so they will not be afraid.  We pray, read the Bible, quote scripture, sing songs and so on.  But then one day when reading in Stormie's book "The Power of a Praying Parent" I read her quote that says "Fear is something that comes upon us the moment we don't believe that God is able to keep us, or all we care about, safe.  Oh Lord Jesus please forgive my unbelief, fear and doubt. 

2 Timothy 1:7 says that fear is a spirit.  For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.  John 10:10 says The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it ^[a]overflows).  If you have ever been afraid of something then you know that in the moment of fear - you are not living your life like you should be.  It changes who I am in that moment.  Fear has changed my plans many times.  When fear grips you it is impossible to live life to the fullest like God intends for His children to do.  Every good gift comes from God so I know that he is the not the one sending this spirit of fear.  James 1:17 (Amp.)  Every good gift and every perfect (^[a]free, large, full) gift is from above; it comes down from the Father of all [that gives] light, in [the shining of] Whom there can be no variation [rising or setting] or shadow cast by His turning [as in an eclipse].  And to put it plainly if it doesn't come from God - I DO NOT WANT IT!

My Verse for dealing with fear is 2 Timothy 1:7.  I quote it often and remind myself that fear has no place in my life.  I am a born again believer.  I belong to God and I refuse to be gripped by the spirit of fear that the devil would try to put on me. 

I have given you a personal story about me dealing with my fear but
fear can come in many different packages over many different things.  Thunder Storms may not bother you at all while something else may.  Be sensitive to your children and what they may be fearful of.  It may be not measuring up at school, their grades, friends, storms, disappointing you or many other things.  Pray for them and with them about this and do not allow the devil to steal anything from them through fear.  We have the power to stand against the power of the enemy for ourselves and our children.  Luke 10:19 Behold! I have given you authority and power to trample upon serpents and scorpions, and [physical and mental strength and ability] over all the power that the enemy [possesses]; and nothing shall in any way harm you.

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1 John 4:18 (Amp.)  There is no fear in love [dread does not exist], but full-grown (complete, perfect) love ^[a]turns fear out of doors and expels every trace of terror! For fear ^[b]brings with it the thought of punishment, and [so] he who is afraid has not reached the full maturity of love [is not yet grown into love’s complete perfection].

1 John 4:8  Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.

2 Timothy 1:7 (Amp.)  For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.

Praying Through a Child's Room

Week # 18

Praying Through a Child's Room

Between listening to my Pastor and reading Stormie's book I have learned the importance of praying through your child's room. 

Most of us are in and out of our children's rooms through the day anyway (if you're not then I firmly believe you should be) so why not while you are in there say a prayer for that child? 

The following are passages from Stormie's Book on the subject.  It would be hard to say it any better than she already did.
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After talking about how her son Christopher had started having bad dreams at night, Stormie went into his room and prayed "  Lord, if there is anything in Christopher's room that shouldn't be here, show me", I prayed.  Immediately, I felt prompted to go to his computer and look at his games. 

There she found a game he had borrowed from a friend at church that looked innocent on the outside but in the back pages of the book she found the worst kind of satanic garbage. 

Every one's house needs a spiritual housecleaning from time to time, especially in the rooms where our children sleep and play. 

If your child is becoming fearful, rebellious, angry, depressed, distant, strange, a disciplinary problem, or having bad dreams and nightmares, sometimes simply praying through the room can change things quickly.  Singing Christian songs, hymns, and worship choruses in the room is also very effective, and I've seen a change of spirit in my children after I have done so.

When you pray through your child's room, remove anything that is not glorifying to God:  posters, books, magazines, pictures, photos, games, or articles of clothing depicting drug or alcohol use or any kind of blasphemy.

This is not a superstitious little ritual.  This is a powerful claiming of your home, your child, and all aspects of his life for God.  It's standing up and proclaiming, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:15).  It's saying, "My home is sanctified and set apart for God's glory".

Let's start our spiritual housecleaning by praying though our children's rooms even before the need arises.
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Stormie's words above are very powerful!  Wow!  I encourage you to purchase this book if you do not own it already.  It is a great investment into the lives of our children.  I refer to mine all the time and have for many many years now. 

Learning to Speak Life - Praying for our Children

Did you know that your words are powerful?  I mean really, did you know that in the words that you speak there is power? 

The Bible says in Proverbs 18:21 that death and life are in the power of our tongues. 

What does that mean exactly?  Well I look at it like this...

If you are constantly told as a child that you can do or achieve anything you set your mind to - You believe it.  If you are told that you are great - You believe it.  If you are told that the sky is the limit and nothing is impossible for you to do or be when you grow up - You believe it.

On the other hand...

If you are told as a child that you are not good at or for anything - You believe it.  If you are told you are worthless and that you will never amount to anything - You believe it.  If you are told that you will never have enough, never get ahead and always be poor - You believe it.

Life and Death. 

God spoke the world into existence.  God spoke life into existence.  God uses His Words to Call into being those things that be not as though they were the Bible says in Romans 4:17.

Life. 

You are snared with the words of your lips, you are caught by the speech of your mouth.  Proverbs 6:2  For by your words you will be justified and acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned and sentenced.  Matthew 12:37

Death.

The old saying "sticks and stones may break my bones but your words will never hurt me" isn't really a true statement.  I was taught this saying as a child but as an adult I realize that is not totally true.  Yes it is true that words can not physically attack me but the words that are spoken to me can "hurt" me emotionally and spiritually.  Once words are spoken, they are out there FOREVER!  Someone may forgive you for harsh or hurtful words that you spoke to them but they will never forget them.  I know I don't. 

So my point in all of this is simple.  Your words that you speak to your children, about your children and over your children in prayer are powerful and important.  Make sure they are the right words.  Make sure they are life giving words.

Also, teach your children the importance of speaking words that are full of love and life and not words that are full of hurt and death about themselves and to others.
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Matthew 12:34  You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.

Matthew 12:35 A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him.

Proverbs 13:3 Those who guard their lips preserve their lives,
but those who speak rashly will come to ruin.

Cross references:

1. Proverbs 13:3 : S Ps 12:2; S 34:13
2. Proverbs 13:3 : S Pr 10:6; 21:23
3. Proverbs 13:3 : S Job 1:22; Pr 18:7, 20-21

Proverbs 16:24 Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.