Key Scripture:

Ecclesiastes 3:2b “ a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;”

Devotional:

Just as a farmer carefully selects and sows seeds in fertile soil, we too have the responsibility to plant seeds of wisdom, faith and virtue in the hearts of our children. God has given us the opportunity to shape their worldview and teach them about His love, grace, mercy and salvation. Let us be intentional in nurturing their spiritual growth, leading by example, teaching them the principles of God’s Word. Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”

The point is for this to be something we are constantly living out through the power of the Holy Spirit.  Some days it looks like singing worship music in the car and reading the Bible and some days, if I’m being real, it is me reminding them to pray as they are bouncing into bed. Although it all doesn’t look perfect, I want my kids to know that God isn’t someone we just talk to on Sundays, but He is our everything! Modeling a real relationship with my heavenly Father is what I want them to see. And just like all relationships, that can look a little messy.

Then, there are times as parents when we will have to allow our kids to uproot, and rely on the principles we have instilled in them. Knowing there will be a time for our kids to uproot should be a call to action as parents to take advantage of the time we have to teach them to know God! One day, they will be sent out into the world (and that day comes so much more quickly than we realize). Genesis 2:24 tells us, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” It was God’s plan that our children go out from their parents’ home and into the world.  He has given us the huge responsibility as their parents to prepare them for this uprooting so they will be successful in all that God calls them to do.

Questions for reflection:

• How can you rely on God’s timing and wisdom in your parenting decisions? How can you seek His guidance and trust His plan for your children’s lives?
• How are you currently taking advantage of the time you have with your kids to know God?