Happy
Monday everyone!
I
am so delighted to join you this week. I LOVE a chance to connect with moms who
have a heart for Christ and bringing his love into your home.
Scripture
Memory is a standard part of our week in our home. Our girls are 3 and 5 and
we’ve been doing this since last year regularly. They sort of HAVE to do it
because I launched Lil Light O’ Mine and the ABC Scripture Cards last October. However,
I believe it’s critical to their walk with Christ and mine too.
I
believe in the Word of God in the hearts of our children. I believe God’s
promises are true, that this practice will not return void (Isaiah 55:11).
Chuck Swindoll wrote this about scripture memorization, “I know of no
other single practice in the Christian life more rewarding, practically
speaking, than memorizing Scripture. . . . No other single exercise pays
greater spiritual dividends! Your prayer life will be strengthened. Your
witnessing will be sharper and much more effective. Your attitudes and outlook
will begin to change. Your mind will become alert and observant. Your
confidence and assurance will be enhanced. Your faith will be solidified”
(Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life [Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994], p. 61)
One
thing I have seen in the Christian culture is FORCING it on kids and making it
a negative thing. I want them to love their Bibles and love what God promises. As
parents, we know it’s a great tool for discipline and many verses help us
parent and back up what we want to teach. Just as important, they need to know
the truth of God’s love. How much He loves them. How he created them in his image.
They can be ENCOURAGED when scared and EXCITED of his promises and COMFORTED
when confused.
Let
me share how we are incorporating our scripture memory into real life
situations. It makes my heart SING when we are able to connect his Word with
what is happening in their lives.
When
my 5-year-old came home and said “X said she didn’t like me at school” – I
immediately could think of a response (I’m learning these too!).
Me: Ella what did you say back?
Ella: Nothing.
Me: That’s right – what’s the K verse?
Ella: K! Keep you tongue from evil!
Me: Yes! Ella. I’m so sorry she hurt you. But I
am SO proud of you for holding your tongue. That pleases me and God so much.
I
have one that struggles with fear at night. I ask her to tell me the H verse.
And we discuss that He cares for her every worry. He protects her. He is with
her in the night. Etc.
I
also want them to know that scripture is for ME! This was a light bulb moment
for my oldest. Does mommy complain sometimes when I clean the house? She
giggled and nodded. Yep, Jesus wants me to have a happy heart and do my chores
without complaining too! These verses are for me too!
So,
however you choose to memorize scripture with your kiddos. I just pray you’ll
make that first step. You will be AMAZED how quickly they soak it up and how
quickly it will become a part of your parenting. We have a common language now.
My answer isn’t “because mom said so” anymore.
I
pray that when you sense they are doing it because they have to and they are
resistant, that you wait. I have some fun ways on my blog (even a video with
bad singing) to spice it up and make it fun. God’s word should delight their
hearts and not be a burden.
Lastly,
I just want to make sure you know that your job is incredibly worthy. You
matter deeply to your heavenly Father and to so many. It is tough stuff day in
and day out, but I know I’ll never regret the rewards of pouring truth into my
kiddos. Happy Mother’s Day!
To enter, leave a comment on this post letting me know what scripture verse you love to hide in your little ones hearts! Or simply say hello!
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Winner will be announced Monday, May 14th.
Giveaway is CLOSED!!!
Go here to enter the other Blog Celebration Giveaways! Goodluck! :)
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