And He took the children in His arms, put His hands on them and blessed them.” Mark 10:16 (NIV)
God is moving by His Spirit all over the earth, and leading His agenda is the establishment of healthy, nurturing, safe and wholesome families. Consequently, we need to ask ourselves these serious questions:
Is my home a nurturing, loving, and affectionate environment? Remember that children thrive on the love, attention, respect and responsiveness they receive from their parents.
Do we allow enough time to play and laugh together? Family memories, and intimate bonding grows as we take the time to play, learn and discover together. Don't be boring, be creative in the things you spend time doing together. ASK the family what they like doing. And always remember: “t-i-m-e” is another way to spell “love”!
Are we learning as a family to give to one another, as well as to our neighbors? Learn to give the gift of forgiveness to one another. Teach your children to give the gift of friendship. Friends are essential to growing children; guide them early as to how to be a friend, and how to wisely choose their friends. Make your family values very clear through example and discussion. Volunteer, and gladly serve together at church, at school, or in your communities.
Do you have “VISION” for each of the members of your family? God has a purpose and plan for each member of your family. Pray about the call of God upon your family. Study your children. What are their temperaments and their personalities? What are their strengths and their giftings? I read a while back: “Parents with vision want their children to tackle tasks with energy and enthusiasm, to become diligent and perpetual learners.” (Start this early through example and training.)
Remember the Lord wants your family to be blessed! He loves to hear the sounds of love and laughter coming from your home. And when the discordant notes of hurt, strife and pain come from your home, He yearns to give you His grace, wisdom, and love to “get back up” and continue to “fight for your family” (Nehemiah 4:13, 14).
