Every day I think about how I'm preparing my children for eternity, and though I know I haven't written in a very long while, it isn't for lack of ideas, but rather for lack of time.
Our littlest girl, Annie (9 months today), is a very darling loving child - with me. She loves me and I love her. She gives me very little grief and is seemingly always content. However, this little girl morphs into some strange beast when I'm not with her. Isaac can bring her some comfort and Susie does her best to soothe her when she's upset. But outside of those two, she finds no solace. She'll scream her head off when someone else picks her up, but as soon as she's in my arms, everything is right in the world, all screaming ceases and she'll smile at her former "abductor." I used to feel so badly about her reaction. She made other adults feel terrible and I got some not so nice looks from others who believed that babies should be a lot more adaptable than Annie is.
Thankfully, my mother continually allayed my worry and reminded me that God created babies this way. They are SUPPOSED to bond with their mothers. Annie is a very jovial child when she is with me, and there is no other place she wants to be. I've decided not only to accept it, but also to embrace her behavior. In a country where we place such high value on freedom and independence, we are all to quick to forget our need for God. Not that I am God, but in Annie's world, she is forming an opinion of a loving God based upon my love and care for her. Just as she longs to be with me and find joy interacting with me, I pray that as she grows she forms an even greater attachment with God. I want her to run to Him and to long to be with Him, and I even want her to be unhappy when she steps out of His Will. Somehow, I get the idea that the way Annie feels towards me now, is very similar to how we should feel towards God. Heaven will eventually be the fulfillment of longing to walk with God and be with Him physically each and every day (not that we aren't now, but it is much more difficult on earth than it will be in Heaven).
So, to all those people who feel that Annie is a problem child who seemingly can't get enough of her mother, I am sorry you feel that way. But it is true. She always wants to be with me, and it is my hope and prayer that I am setting her up to feel the same way about God.
(On another note - I have become quite tired because she wakes up every 3 hours at night for a feeding. So I went to my go to doctor online, Doctor Sears, to read up on what he has to say. I'm not sure if this man is a Christian, but I suspect that he may be. Here is a WONDERFUL article about babies and sleeping at night. http://www.askdrsears.com/topics/sleep-problems/8-infant-sleep-facts-every-parent-should-know The gist of what he says is that babies need parenting, even in the night. And we shouldn't expect them to sleep through the entire night as the movement in the 70's seems to suggest they should. God didn't design babies that way and it is more than okay to rock them to sleep, to nurse them when they're hungry, and to generally care for them and love them even through the night. He emphasizes that you need to set them up for success, but until a child is 1-2 years old, expecting them to sleep all night is unrealistic and perhaps not even safe.)
I find it strange that society continually tries to minimize the role of a mother. Maybe we need a lot more moms putting their kids first - teaching them, loving them, caring for them, and disciplining them with love. I'll be the first to admit, working while my children were young is perhaps one of the biggest mistakes I ever made. I may not be perfect, but my children need me. Thankfully, I have a husband who supports my desire to stay at home and focus on our children. There is no way I could do it without him. Even though society continually slams traditional roles within the family as well as mothers who stay at home to care for the children and the home, we have found that as we embrace more traditional roles, our lives have never been happier or more fulfilling. Could it be that perhaps God designed families to work this way? And that He designed women for motherhood and men for fatherhood? Maybe He gave women an extra dose of patience and sensitivity to deal with the every day demands of raising children and men the strength and endurance to work outside of the home on a farm, in the business world, or the military? Maybe, just maybe, God made us different for different purposes. I know there is no one size fits all, but we'd be wise to consider how we were designed before we jump on society's bandwagon.
Friday, March 1, 2013
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Raising Kids for Eternity: What I meant to say...
This is going to be very short. My latest thought process has been on "Raising Kids for Eternity." Ever since Annie was born and I've been at home, this has been the most pressing thought on my mind. I know what I want to do, I have an idea of how to do it, but I've not been able to explain why this thought continues to persist. I'm sure many people just chalk it up to me being a little weird, or spiritual, or religions, or whatever label you want to put on it.
However, the other day a friend of mine posted this short clip by Francis Chan. I've watched a few of his clips, read a couple of his books, and generally agree with his insight. I think he's hit the nail on the head with most Christian principles. I'm sure somewhere he's made a mistake, because he's only human, but he has the gift of being able to explain things in a way that others can understand.
I wish I had that same gift. Often I have impressions from God. My spirit seems to understand what God wants me to do, but I lack the ability to articulate it to others outside of my immediate family. If I were able to express why eternity is so much on my mind, not only for me, but also for my children, this is what I would have meant to say: Francis Chan Rope Illustration
Be sure to click on the blue text above to watch the clip. :)
However, the other day a friend of mine posted this short clip by Francis Chan. I've watched a few of his clips, read a couple of his books, and generally agree with his insight. I think he's hit the nail on the head with most Christian principles. I'm sure somewhere he's made a mistake, because he's only human, but he has the gift of being able to explain things in a way that others can understand.
I wish I had that same gift. Often I have impressions from God. My spirit seems to understand what God wants me to do, but I lack the ability to articulate it to others outside of my immediate family. If I were able to express why eternity is so much on my mind, not only for me, but also for my children, this is what I would have meant to say: Francis Chan Rope Illustration
Be sure to click on the blue text above to watch the clip. :)
Monday, November 19, 2012
Raising Kids for Eternity - Passionate Kids!
With every dear friend, family member, or neighbor that passes on, I am reminded that we were not created for this world. And it is ever more imperative that I, as a mother, am very mindful that we have "little" spirits in this house that need to be guided, directed, and prepared for eternal life.
David. That is the David who was a man after God's own heart (Acts 13:22). I'm glad I wasn't his mom. I'm pretty sure that if I was, I would have taken the song and dance out of his life - not intentionally - but out of the guise of insisting he behave.
I realized this great flaw as I was praying all alone. When I talk to God straight from my spirit, I am overcome with emotion (except I don't let it overcome me to the point where others can see it). For whatever reason, I have placed great value on controlling my emotions, my speech, my thoughts, and my behavior. I think about things before I say them. I rarely do something or react without carefully weighing my options. Few thoughts go through my head unchecked. And I know I have parented my children similarly. I place great emphasis on thinking, making wise choices, putting things in perspective and looking at the facts. So when my children sing too loudly or clap too enthusiastically or laugh too uncontrollably, I will often intervene - not in a way that crushes their spirit but in a way that just puts them into check...until a few days ago.
I was driving in the car with Susie (4), Ben (2), and Annie (5 months). Out of the blue, Ben starts belting out "Jesus Loves Me." Within minutes Susie joins him and they proceed to get stuck on the chorus. Like a broken record they sang it over and over and over for a minimum of 10 minutes. They started clapping, dancing in their car seats - even Annie joined in making cooing noises of her own. Luckily, when my parenting side wanted them to calm down, my spirit insisted I let them continue.
And then I realized, if I want my children to passionately love the Lord as David did, I have to be very careful not to take that passion out of their hearts! That same feeling that wells up inside my kids also wells up inside of me, but for whatever reason I muster all the energy I can find to keep it inside. You won't find me dancing in the streets, weeping while I sing, or openly pouring out my heart. Maybe when I'm confident no one is looking, but never for others to see. Yet God loves our passion for Him and He desires to see us be passionate for Him.
I prayed for my children, long before they were conceived, that they would love the Lord with all their heart, soul, and strength. So when they laugh exuberantly, sing at the top of their lungs, jump for joy, or dance (safely) in the streets I need to remember that passionate people can love God passionately. Our emotions were made for just that purpose!
While I still very much enjoy children who behave, who respond to correction quickly, and who display self control, I understand that God hears our prayers and quite possibly gave me exactly what I asked for - passionate children who love God passionately. I need to embrace it more and squash it less. I'm pretty sure when we're in Heaven, God will delight in our passion for Him!
David. That is the David who was a man after God's own heart (Acts 13:22). I'm glad I wasn't his mom. I'm pretty sure that if I was, I would have taken the song and dance out of his life - not intentionally - but out of the guise of insisting he behave.
I realized this great flaw as I was praying all alone. When I talk to God straight from my spirit, I am overcome with emotion (except I don't let it overcome me to the point where others can see it). For whatever reason, I have placed great value on controlling my emotions, my speech, my thoughts, and my behavior. I think about things before I say them. I rarely do something or react without carefully weighing my options. Few thoughts go through my head unchecked. And I know I have parented my children similarly. I place great emphasis on thinking, making wise choices, putting things in perspective and looking at the facts. So when my children sing too loudly or clap too enthusiastically or laugh too uncontrollably, I will often intervene - not in a way that crushes their spirit but in a way that just puts them into check...until a few days ago.
I was driving in the car with Susie (4), Ben (2), and Annie (5 months). Out of the blue, Ben starts belting out "Jesus Loves Me." Within minutes Susie joins him and they proceed to get stuck on the chorus. Like a broken record they sang it over and over and over for a minimum of 10 minutes. They started clapping, dancing in their car seats - even Annie joined in making cooing noises of her own. Luckily, when my parenting side wanted them to calm down, my spirit insisted I let them continue.
And then I realized, if I want my children to passionately love the Lord as David did, I have to be very careful not to take that passion out of their hearts! That same feeling that wells up inside my kids also wells up inside of me, but for whatever reason I muster all the energy I can find to keep it inside. You won't find me dancing in the streets, weeping while I sing, or openly pouring out my heart. Maybe when I'm confident no one is looking, but never for others to see. Yet God loves our passion for Him and He desires to see us be passionate for Him.
I prayed for my children, long before they were conceived, that they would love the Lord with all their heart, soul, and strength. So when they laugh exuberantly, sing at the top of their lungs, jump for joy, or dance (safely) in the streets I need to remember that passionate people can love God passionately. Our emotions were made for just that purpose!
While I still very much enjoy children who behave, who respond to correction quickly, and who display self control, I understand that God hears our prayers and quite possibly gave me exactly what I asked for - passionate children who love God passionately. I need to embrace it more and squash it less. I'm pretty sure when we're in Heaven, God will delight in our passion for Him!
Monday, September 10, 2012
Raising Kids for Eternity - Rejection
Rejection. We've all been there. Whether it is a past boyfriend or girlfriend, a spouse, a teacher, a parent, a best friend, or even a pastor, we've all experienced rejection of some sort. And it is never fun. Rejection out and out hurts and very little good seems to come of it.
What did Jesus last utter on the cross? "Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?" Which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" Can you imagine? What pain he must have endured, not only physical but spiritual anguish. As a parent it is hard to walk our children through times of rejection. Matter of fact, it is exceptionally difficult to walk trough those times ourselves. But they will come for all of us at one point or another. Fortunately in eternity, rejection will no longer be an issue, but until we get there we must deal with it.
I suppose in my blogs I harp on discipline quite a bit. I must admit, I'm extremely tired of watching naughty children in public. And I don't blame the children, I blame the parents. Even when it comes to my own naughty children - their actions are my responsibility for the time being. However, children's emotions are also exceptionally important. Happiness is quite easy to deal with. Anger is a bit annoying, but not too terribly hard to explain or control. Sadness is usually remedied by some form of comfort, but rejection takes it to a whole new level. Rejection says you are not valuable and not worth my time.
Now I'm not a counselor, nor do I ever want to be, but I have been told that divorce is often more difficult than death. I'm sure it is different for different people, but from personal experience, it was definitely true for me. When my grandma and grandpa died, I was heartbroken - very very very sad. But I knew they loved me and I had fond memories to reflect upon. When my ex-husband decided he needed other women instead of me, the rejection went straight to my soul. I immediately questioned my self worth. I wondered what I could have done differently, and even more so, I wondered why I wasn't loveable. These negative thoughts are never overridden by any positive experiences from our marriage. Rejection takes precedence and persists. And though I have come a long way from those initial days of dealing with infidelity and subsequently a divorce, the rejection still looms - it doesn't ever go away completely.
Do you ever remember a time when you were rejected? I can point to times in my childhood up until recent days when I've had to deal with it. I wish as a parent this would not be something my children would have to experience, but I know they will and already may have. What do you say to a child as they struggle with rejection? Leaning on my own experiences and the Bible - these are the things I rely upon:
First - We were made in the image of God. He loves us enough to send his son to die in our place. We are valuable and loveable. And there is nothing we can do to make God love us more or less.
Secondly - Our value is not dependent upon what anyone thinks of us. Maybe your boyfriend or girlfriend dumped you, maybe your teacher cannot stand you, maybe your parents yell at you all the time and you feel like a burden to them, maybe your spouse left you for a more tantalizing person, maybe your children think you are a worthless parent, or maybe your church has ostracized you - nevertheless, NONE of those situations change your value. God is not swayed by the opinions of others.
Third - Once we love Jesus, we can be confident that no one else can take that away. Even if we don't feel loved, even if we can't point to a single person who loves us, we can be assured that the Creator of the Heavens and Earth will not change his mind and cast us away. He promised that no one could ever snatch us from His hands.
I'm not naive, I know that comfort doesn't come immediately. We have to remind ourselves of truth over and over again. Dealing with rejection is a process, but it must be confronted. Chastisement, discipline, even correction may be from God, but rejection never is. It is born out of sin. Dealing properly with poor behavior never involves rejection. As a parent it is important to keep that in mind.
I know that there have been times when I may have put thoughts of rejection into my children. Sometimes I get so frustrated with them that I tell them "I need a break from you right now." Hmmm. I'm pretty sure that can't be good. I'm almost positive that instead of correcting their behavior, I'm putting a thought into their soul that doesn't belong there. I struggle sometimes to separate the sin from the sinner. I want absolutely nothing to do with sinful behavior, but I love and adore my children's spirits. They are a gift from God to be treasured. We need to teach our children how valuable they are - not only to us, but also to God. They need to hide God's Word in their hearts, so that when rejection comes their way, they'll be ready. They may be hurt and sad, but they'll know the truth. They won't be swayed by the opinion of others, but rather hold fast to God's opinion in their hearts and mind.
We cannot protect our children from everything. We may make mistakes and even hurt them inadvertently. However, I can think of nothing more important to instill in our children than the love of God for a sinful people. The devil wishes to convince us all that we are worthless, unloved, and hopeless. He will go out of his way to persuade our children that it is true. However, there is no better defense against the devil's lies than to show and teach our children the love of Christ from a very young age. As we work our way towards eternity, let us all be careful not to use rejection to accomplish any goal either in our homes or communities.
Bible references included below instead of throughout the text.
Genesis 1:27
John 3:16
John 10:29
1 Samuel 16:7
What did Jesus last utter on the cross? "Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?" Which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" Can you imagine? What pain he must have endured, not only physical but spiritual anguish. As a parent it is hard to walk our children through times of rejection. Matter of fact, it is exceptionally difficult to walk trough those times ourselves. But they will come for all of us at one point or another. Fortunately in eternity, rejection will no longer be an issue, but until we get there we must deal with it.
I suppose in my blogs I harp on discipline quite a bit. I must admit, I'm extremely tired of watching naughty children in public. And I don't blame the children, I blame the parents. Even when it comes to my own naughty children - their actions are my responsibility for the time being. However, children's emotions are also exceptionally important. Happiness is quite easy to deal with. Anger is a bit annoying, but not too terribly hard to explain or control. Sadness is usually remedied by some form of comfort, but rejection takes it to a whole new level. Rejection says you are not valuable and not worth my time.
Now I'm not a counselor, nor do I ever want to be, but I have been told that divorce is often more difficult than death. I'm sure it is different for different people, but from personal experience, it was definitely true for me. When my grandma and grandpa died, I was heartbroken - very very very sad. But I knew they loved me and I had fond memories to reflect upon. When my ex-husband decided he needed other women instead of me, the rejection went straight to my soul. I immediately questioned my self worth. I wondered what I could have done differently, and even more so, I wondered why I wasn't loveable. These negative thoughts are never overridden by any positive experiences from our marriage. Rejection takes precedence and persists. And though I have come a long way from those initial days of dealing with infidelity and subsequently a divorce, the rejection still looms - it doesn't ever go away completely.
Do you ever remember a time when you were rejected? I can point to times in my childhood up until recent days when I've had to deal with it. I wish as a parent this would not be something my children would have to experience, but I know they will and already may have. What do you say to a child as they struggle with rejection? Leaning on my own experiences and the Bible - these are the things I rely upon:
First - We were made in the image of God. He loves us enough to send his son to die in our place. We are valuable and loveable. And there is nothing we can do to make God love us more or less.
Secondly - Our value is not dependent upon what anyone thinks of us. Maybe your boyfriend or girlfriend dumped you, maybe your teacher cannot stand you, maybe your parents yell at you all the time and you feel like a burden to them, maybe your spouse left you for a more tantalizing person, maybe your children think you are a worthless parent, or maybe your church has ostracized you - nevertheless, NONE of those situations change your value. God is not swayed by the opinions of others.
Third - Once we love Jesus, we can be confident that no one else can take that away. Even if we don't feel loved, even if we can't point to a single person who loves us, we can be assured that the Creator of the Heavens and Earth will not change his mind and cast us away. He promised that no one could ever snatch us from His hands.
I'm not naive, I know that comfort doesn't come immediately. We have to remind ourselves of truth over and over again. Dealing with rejection is a process, but it must be confronted. Chastisement, discipline, even correction may be from God, but rejection never is. It is born out of sin. Dealing properly with poor behavior never involves rejection. As a parent it is important to keep that in mind.
I know that there have been times when I may have put thoughts of rejection into my children. Sometimes I get so frustrated with them that I tell them "I need a break from you right now." Hmmm. I'm pretty sure that can't be good. I'm almost positive that instead of correcting their behavior, I'm putting a thought into their soul that doesn't belong there. I struggle sometimes to separate the sin from the sinner. I want absolutely nothing to do with sinful behavior, but I love and adore my children's spirits. They are a gift from God to be treasured. We need to teach our children how valuable they are - not only to us, but also to God. They need to hide God's Word in their hearts, so that when rejection comes their way, they'll be ready. They may be hurt and sad, but they'll know the truth. They won't be swayed by the opinion of others, but rather hold fast to God's opinion in their hearts and mind.
We cannot protect our children from everything. We may make mistakes and even hurt them inadvertently. However, I can think of nothing more important to instill in our children than the love of God for a sinful people. The devil wishes to convince us all that we are worthless, unloved, and hopeless. He will go out of his way to persuade our children that it is true. However, there is no better defense against the devil's lies than to show and teach our children the love of Christ from a very young age. As we work our way towards eternity, let us all be careful not to use rejection to accomplish any goal either in our homes or communities.
Bible references included below instead of throughout the text.
Genesis 1:27
John 3:16
John 10:29
1 Samuel 16:7
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Raising Kids for Eternity (Obedience)
Deuteronomy 10:12 "And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of
you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love
him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your
soul,"
I have a little Derik 2.0 (Gabe) and little Derik 3.0 (Ben). I say they are like my husband because I don't ever remember not wanting to obey. My husband on the other hand is a force to be reckoned with! Fortunately, both Gabe and Ben are exceedingly funny and live life the the fullest, but they also keep me on my toes! Today, Ben who is 23 months, was hitting again. I warned him as I usually do to stop, or he'd have to go to bed. He said, "No, and hit me again." So, it was off to bed. I don't get too aggravated by his antics, but I sometimes wonder how long it will take for the child to obey! Yesterday after I heard Susie scream, I went to investigate and before Susie could tell me what happened, I heard Ben say, "Trouble trouble trouble" and run away. She didn't even have to tell me what happened. I knew he had whacked her. For what purpose, I do not know. However, I was confident that he knew better. Obedience is not Ben's forte.
I believe that our sinful human nature is magnified in children. As adults, we learn to either crucify our flesh or embrace sin - sometimes secretively. Children are typically very transparent and exceptionally good sinners. It is our job as parents to teach them differently. My mom did not tolerate disobedience in any form. In fact, I am pretty sure that if I was thinking the wrong thing, I would soon experience the swift hand of justice. I don't operate the same way as my mother did, but our goal is the same. If I ask my children to do something, I want them to obey completely and immediately. And I believe that God also expects the same.
When we get to Heaven I'm confident there will be no talking back or negotiating. We must obey God, but even better we will want to obey God. I know we'll have new bodies and our sinful nature will be dead, but I'd like to think that practicing our sanctified nature here on earth will not only please God but also better prepare us for eternity. My husband asked me on Sunday how I felt about a particular situation and followed it up with a question about what I felt like doing. I literally laughed in his face. Because, as I explained to him, how I felt had absolutely no bearing concerning what God was calling us to do. In fact, I frequently feel like doing the wrong thing! Maybe that part will disappear when we're with the Lord. I hope so, because it will make obeying a lot easier!
Can you imagine standing before the Lord in Heaven and being asked to go fetch a pail of water? Maybe it would seem ridiculous. After all, does the Lord really NEED water? Isn't He all sufficient? And then I thought about what my kids would say if God asked them:
Isaac (9years old) "In a minute." He's obedient in his own time.
Gabe (5 years old and whining) "Ugh! That's too much work!" He tends to be disobedient unless there is something in it for him.
Susie (almost 4 years old) "Its too heavy. I can't do it." She is a lovely child who finds an excuse for everything!
Ben (23 months old) "NO! Don't want to!" He's contrary. If you asked him to eat a cookie, which he loves, he'd probably tell you no just to be obstinate.
Annie (11 weeks) Smile. :) I'm hoping Annie would just smile. She's been doing that a lot lately.
So, except for Annie, I'm pretty sure my children aren't prepared for eternity. Their sinful human nature is frequently evident in this house. But with God's help, it will change.
How do I get my children to willingly obey? I'm not sure. I hope that the blend of incentive and discipline will work while they are young. But alone, those are not enough. It is crucial for children to understand that we all are tempted to do what is wrong - frequently by our own thoughts and feelings. But it is imperative to understand what we are thinking and yet choose to do what is right. It is important for them to understand that they need a savior from a young age and to grasp with the best of their ability what God has done for us.
Obedience is naturally born out of thankfulness. We see this on the news when a drowning swimmer is rescued by a passer by. What is the first thing the survivor says? Usually it is something along the lines of "Thank you," and "What can I do to repay you?" So it is with us and our children. If we live our lives with the daily reminder of all that God has done, obedience becomes a whole lot easier. We cannot focus solely on the here and now. This world is just the beginning. God gave us the gift of salvation so that we may live eternally with Him. When we focus on eternity and keep our eye on the prize, the cares of this world and the temptation to be disobedient weaken. Philippians 4:13 reads, "I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." After all our citizenship is in Heaven. Our life on earth is temporary, but our life with God is eternal.
Obedience
I have a little Derik 2.0 (Gabe) and little Derik 3.0 (Ben). I say they are like my husband because I don't ever remember not wanting to obey. My husband on the other hand is a force to be reckoned with! Fortunately, both Gabe and Ben are exceedingly funny and live life the the fullest, but they also keep me on my toes! Today, Ben who is 23 months, was hitting again. I warned him as I usually do to stop, or he'd have to go to bed. He said, "No, and hit me again." So, it was off to bed. I don't get too aggravated by his antics, but I sometimes wonder how long it will take for the child to obey! Yesterday after I heard Susie scream, I went to investigate and before Susie could tell me what happened, I heard Ben say, "Trouble trouble trouble" and run away. She didn't even have to tell me what happened. I knew he had whacked her. For what purpose, I do not know. However, I was confident that he knew better. Obedience is not Ben's forte.
I believe that our sinful human nature is magnified in children. As adults, we learn to either crucify our flesh or embrace sin - sometimes secretively. Children are typically very transparent and exceptionally good sinners. It is our job as parents to teach them differently. My mom did not tolerate disobedience in any form. In fact, I am pretty sure that if I was thinking the wrong thing, I would soon experience the swift hand of justice. I don't operate the same way as my mother did, but our goal is the same. If I ask my children to do something, I want them to obey completely and immediately. And I believe that God also expects the same.
When we get to Heaven I'm confident there will be no talking back or negotiating. We must obey God, but even better we will want to obey God. I know we'll have new bodies and our sinful nature will be dead, but I'd like to think that practicing our sanctified nature here on earth will not only please God but also better prepare us for eternity. My husband asked me on Sunday how I felt about a particular situation and followed it up with a question about what I felt like doing. I literally laughed in his face. Because, as I explained to him, how I felt had absolutely no bearing concerning what God was calling us to do. In fact, I frequently feel like doing the wrong thing! Maybe that part will disappear when we're with the Lord. I hope so, because it will make obeying a lot easier!
Can you imagine standing before the Lord in Heaven and being asked to go fetch a pail of water? Maybe it would seem ridiculous. After all, does the Lord really NEED water? Isn't He all sufficient? And then I thought about what my kids would say if God asked them:
Isaac (9years old) "In a minute." He's obedient in his own time.
Gabe (5 years old and whining) "Ugh! That's too much work!" He tends to be disobedient unless there is something in it for him.
Susie (almost 4 years old) "Its too heavy. I can't do it." She is a lovely child who finds an excuse for everything!
Ben (23 months old) "NO! Don't want to!" He's contrary. If you asked him to eat a cookie, which he loves, he'd probably tell you no just to be obstinate.
Annie (11 weeks) Smile. :) I'm hoping Annie would just smile. She's been doing that a lot lately.
So, except for Annie, I'm pretty sure my children aren't prepared for eternity. Their sinful human nature is frequently evident in this house. But with God's help, it will change.
How do I get my children to willingly obey? I'm not sure. I hope that the blend of incentive and discipline will work while they are young. But alone, those are not enough. It is crucial for children to understand that we all are tempted to do what is wrong - frequently by our own thoughts and feelings. But it is imperative to understand what we are thinking and yet choose to do what is right. It is important for them to understand that they need a savior from a young age and to grasp with the best of their ability what God has done for us.
Obedience is naturally born out of thankfulness. We see this on the news when a drowning swimmer is rescued by a passer by. What is the first thing the survivor says? Usually it is something along the lines of "Thank you," and "What can I do to repay you?" So it is with us and our children. If we live our lives with the daily reminder of all that God has done, obedience becomes a whole lot easier. We cannot focus solely on the here and now. This world is just the beginning. God gave us the gift of salvation so that we may live eternally with Him. When we focus on eternity and keep our eye on the prize, the cares of this world and the temptation to be disobedient weaken. Philippians 4:13 reads, "I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." After all our citizenship is in Heaven. Our life on earth is temporary, but our life with God is eternal.
Friday, August 17, 2012
Preparing Children for Eternity
It's that time of year again - back to school. There are school supplies to buy, schedules to make, and lunches to pack. Life gets a lot busier once school begins. This year, Gabe starts kindergarten. I suppose I should be all choked up that my second eldest is going to school, but to be honest, I'm not. I remember getting sentimental when Isaac entered preschool. Now I realize I'll be going through this for a while! Lets face it, with 5+ kids you to experience these "firsts" over and over again. And that got me thinking, "How does God do it?" He has a ton of children! While I'm preparing my children for school, sports, and life, God is preparing His for eternity.
Then it hit me. Shouldn't I be preparing my children for eternity too? I suppose in some way I am. We read our Bibles, pray, and talk about having a relationship with Christ. We even discuss the rapture and Jesus' return. But what does it mean to actually prepare our children for eternity? Are they ready? Am I doing my job as their mother? Or have I focused too much on the here and now? It is no secret that I really want to go to medical school and be the doctor I once thought I would be. But how do I fit that into my life when it is so busy - and at what cost?
Last night I watched Ann Romney talk about choosing to be a stay at home mother when all of her friends went on to successful careers. She emphatically stated that she could have become anything she wanted to be - that she was an intelligent woman and choosing to stay at home with her 5 boys wasn't her only option. I could relate. As I'm attempting to follow in her footsteps it is very difficult. I'm ambitious. I like to learn. And I appreciate intelligent conversations with other adults. Being a stay-at-home mom can be very tedious, redundant, and unscientific. My conversations tend to revolve around household chores, potty training, refereeing sibling disagreements, and obedience. I'm physically and emotionally drained at the end of most days. And though my children are, for the most part, wonderful, I still long for adult conversations (mostly about math and science) and a world beyond my kids.
Still I have to ask myself, given all the opportunities in the world, what is the most important job God has assigned to me? It isn't becoming a doctor; it isn't continuing with teaching; it isn't even merely raising my children. It is in fact, preparing my children for eternity. Next, I have to figure out how. I'm sure I'll approach it in a logical fashion based upon Biblical principles. And even though I despise writing, it will give me something to write about. If you're interested stay tuned.
Then it hit me. Shouldn't I be preparing my children for eternity too? I suppose in some way I am. We read our Bibles, pray, and talk about having a relationship with Christ. We even discuss the rapture and Jesus' return. But what does it mean to actually prepare our children for eternity? Are they ready? Am I doing my job as their mother? Or have I focused too much on the here and now? It is no secret that I really want to go to medical school and be the doctor I once thought I would be. But how do I fit that into my life when it is so busy - and at what cost?
Last night I watched Ann Romney talk about choosing to be a stay at home mother when all of her friends went on to successful careers. She emphatically stated that she could have become anything she wanted to be - that she was an intelligent woman and choosing to stay at home with her 5 boys wasn't her only option. I could relate. As I'm attempting to follow in her footsteps it is very difficult. I'm ambitious. I like to learn. And I appreciate intelligent conversations with other adults. Being a stay-at-home mom can be very tedious, redundant, and unscientific. My conversations tend to revolve around household chores, potty training, refereeing sibling disagreements, and obedience. I'm physically and emotionally drained at the end of most days. And though my children are, for the most part, wonderful, I still long for adult conversations (mostly about math and science) and a world beyond my kids.
Still I have to ask myself, given all the opportunities in the world, what is the most important job God has assigned to me? It isn't becoming a doctor; it isn't continuing with teaching; it isn't even merely raising my children. It is in fact, preparing my children for eternity. Next, I have to figure out how. I'm sure I'll approach it in a logical fashion based upon Biblical principles. And even though I despise writing, it will give me something to write about. If you're interested stay tuned.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Turn My Heart
Have you ever found yourself in an uncomfortable place? A place where it feels downright unnatural to obey God? I know I've said more than once, "I'll do it, but I don't want to and I'm not happy about it!" I am probably too honest about my humanity when I talk with God. I'm certain I am far from what He wants me to be, but I also know there is no sense in pretending otherwise.
Have you ever wanted to obey joyfully in all things? I know that has been my prayer. Yet I find my humanity creeps in and desires its own way. As I think about those I love, my husband, my children, and my grandparents, I have discovered that the more devotion in my heart, the easier it is to obey. Which makes me wonder, could I be more devoted to a person than I am to the Lord? I often remember my grandpa. Before he passed away, I talked to him daily. He always told me he loved me. I would visit as often as I could and do whatever he needed, though he would never ask for anything. I loved to clean his home, fold his clothes, and sit and talk. Other than my grandma, I can't think of someone who has loved me more. I don't think there was anything he could have asked me to do that I wouldn't have done. I was utterly devoted.
I have confessed to the Lord that in some respects I actually loved my grandpa more than I've love Him. I know that should not be. But I also know that as I have grown in my faith, God has done in many instances that which I am unable to do. He has turned my heart.
I don't know how He does it, but I can point to many instances where God has turned my heart from my own way to His way - just recently, from working to staying at home with my children. I have a long way to go. My heart is often in this world and with people in my family. Not that it is wrong when we love His creation and His people, but it is wrong when that love usurps God's place in our heart.
I am grateful that our God is so generous - that He allows us to love others, that He is patient with us as we learn to put Him first in all things. I pray that I would love His will at all times, that I would be concerned with His work, and that I would joyfully be devoted to Him. I am also so thankful that I was blessed to have grandparents who demonstrated Christ's love in such a tangible way. Even though they may usurp God's rightful place in my heart on occasion, by their example I long to draw closer to Him each and every day. And so, as we celebrate Valentine's Day, I would once again ask God to turn my heat towards Him and His will.
Have you ever wanted to obey joyfully in all things? I know that has been my prayer. Yet I find my humanity creeps in and desires its own way. As I think about those I love, my husband, my children, and my grandparents, I have discovered that the more devotion in my heart, the easier it is to obey. Which makes me wonder, could I be more devoted to a person than I am to the Lord? I often remember my grandpa. Before he passed away, I talked to him daily. He always told me he loved me. I would visit as often as I could and do whatever he needed, though he would never ask for anything. I loved to clean his home, fold his clothes, and sit and talk. Other than my grandma, I can't think of someone who has loved me more. I don't think there was anything he could have asked me to do that I wouldn't have done. I was utterly devoted.
I have confessed to the Lord that in some respects I actually loved my grandpa more than I've love Him. I know that should not be. But I also know that as I have grown in my faith, God has done in many instances that which I am unable to do. He has turned my heart.
I don't know how He does it, but I can point to many instances where God has turned my heart from my own way to His way - just recently, from working to staying at home with my children. I have a long way to go. My heart is often in this world and with people in my family. Not that it is wrong when we love His creation and His people, but it is wrong when that love usurps God's place in our heart.
I am grateful that our God is so generous - that He allows us to love others, that He is patient with us as we learn to put Him first in all things. I pray that I would love His will at all times, that I would be concerned with His work, and that I would joyfully be devoted to Him. I am also so thankful that I was blessed to have grandparents who demonstrated Christ's love in such a tangible way. Even though they may usurp God's rightful place in my heart on occasion, by their example I long to draw closer to Him each and every day. And so, as we celebrate Valentine's Day, I would once again ask God to turn my heat towards Him and His will.
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