2020 was full of stories like this one—families battling back from unprecedented challenges and coping with unimaginable loss. This pandemic has been, among other things—a teacher. As Christ-following parents, what can we teach and model for our children about our response to seasons of difficulty?
Consider these words from Paul in his epistle to the Philippians. Chapter 4, verse 12, he writes, “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” He wrote those words as an answer to a personal crisis!
If we look to the verse right before it, we find additional context for his confidence. He wrote, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or want.” In all that he concludes, that it is Jesus who is his source of strength.
When we know the source of our strength, we can move into how we live it out in good and hard seasons. Having the right framework for crisis is critical. Firstly, remember God placed you in this position as a parent within your family, entrusting you with one or more members of His creation (your children) to guide and steward them as a gift from His hands. Secondly, our Heavenly Father loves and cares for them even more than we do! Let that sink in. When those things are true, we can be assured that he is aware of all the hurt and difficulties that we face in this world. And, His sincerest desire is not to ignore our pain but that we seek him out for peace, comfort and direction in ALL seasons. Our primary responsibility is to be His ambassadors sharing the love of Christ to our children.
Let me leave you with this; we are not solely called to overcome challenges; he’s built us to grow and thrive through them. For the children in your home and your care, I ask you, what do you want most for them? The one thing I concluded was “to make Christ known to my kids.” What if that indeed became our one thing? What kind of difference would it make? Especially in seasons of difficulty. We can make 2021 a year unlike any other, in the spiritual growth of our family.
If you are a parent, looking to redefine your “normal,” and to champion your family’s spiritual development take a moment to provide us your input by taking a short Family Spiritual Assessment.
Story Source: https://atriumhealth.org/
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We look forward to hearing your thoughts and concerns. Our prayer team is waiting to pray for you. Take the family spiritual assessment today.
TERENCE
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