#christianparenting

[jen-sketch]

Artwork from 'God's Big Promises Bible Storybook'. Follow the link in my bio for a sneak peek inside .. #GodsBigPromises @thegoodbookcompanyuk @thegoodbookcompanyusa @thegoodbookau • #godsbigpromisesbible#childrensbooks #kidsbooks #booksforkids #christianbooks #christianbooksforkids #biblestories #biblestory #christianmom #christianparenting #christianhomeschool #toddlerlife #kidsministry #churchathome #childrensministry #kidschurch #bibleart #christianart #christianchurch #sundayschool #homeschool #homeschoolmom #homeschooling #homeschoolmama #homeschoollife #jenniferdavison #jen_sketch #jensketches https://www.instagram.com/p/CqlRpTtIj2n/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[thebookhavenblog]

Essential Books for Strong Family Values

Whether your goal is to instill faith, encourage strong relationships, or build a resilient family structure, books on family values offer essential insights to help families thrive. This curated list covers various perspectives, including Christian foundations, parenting strategies, marriage enrichment, and the importance of emotional health within the family. Table of Contents Christian…

[bookhavenblog]

Trusting God in Uncertainty: A Family Perspective

Quote: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." — Proverbs 3:5-6 Reflection: Understanding the Call to Trust At first glance, Proverbs 3:5-6 is one of the most frequently quoted verses in Christian circles, often memorized as a touchstone of faith. But as we dig deeper into these words, we uncover layers of meaning that can transform our faith journey, marriage, and the way we raise our children. These verses offer a profound call to trust—not as a passive feeling but as an active surrender, rooted in humility. This trust means setting aside our personal control and the constant need to know “what comes next.” It asks us to release our grip on our limited understanding, which we often hold so tightly, and to place our faith in a God who sees beyond our moment-to-moment circumstances. 1. Historical Context: Wisdom Literature and Daily Life in Ancient Israel The Book of Proverbs, attributed largely to Solomon, the wise son of King David, is part of the Old Testament’s Wisdom Literature. These books (Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon) were deeply instructive for daily life in ancient Israel. The Hebrew culture valued practical wisdom, which meant learning how to live righteously in all aspects of life—faith, family, work, and community. Proverbs 3:5-6 isn’t just a suggestion but a blueprint for living a God-centered life amid uncertainty. Trusting God with “all your heart” was a radical command in a culture surrounded by pagan nations that relied heavily on idols, human kings, and personal wisdom. By contrast, Proverbs teaches that true wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7) and flows from a heart devoted fully to Him. “Heart” in Hebrew Thought: The Hebrew word for heart, leb, goes beyond our modern understanding as the emotional center. In ancient Israel, the heart encompassed intellect, emotion, and will. To “trust with all your heart” meant a whole-hearted trust, where one’s thoughts, emotions, and decisions align fully in faith. 2. Breaking Down Proverbs 3:5-6 Phrase by Phrase “Trust in the Lord with all your heart” This phrase emphasizes the importance of a complete and unreserved trust in God. It's not a trust that fluctuates with circumstances but one that remains steady, anchored in God’s character and faithfulness. This is a trust that grows through relationship—prayer, reading the Word, and seeing God’s hand in our lives. In family life, trust is tested continually. Whether it’s concerns about finances, health, or the choices our children will make, there’s always a reason to worry. But God calls us to a higher standard: to trust Him as a Father who is intimately involved in every detail, even when we don’t see it. “Lean not on your own understanding” Human understanding is inherently limited, shaped by our experiences, fears, and biases. When we “lean” on it, we’re essentially making it our foundation. God challenges us to let go of this narrow viewpoint and place our confidence in His infinite wisdom. This is particularly poignant when we look at biblical examples, like Abraham, who didn’t understand why God would ask him to sacrifice his promised son Isaac. Yet Abraham trusted God’s wisdom beyond his own. Similarly, Proverbs invites us to relinquish control and trust God to work through every situation—even the ones that don’t make sense to us at the moment. “In all your ways submit to Him” This is where true surrender comes into play. The Hebrew word for “submit” in this verse can also be translated as “acknowledge” or “recognize.” It means that in every decision, every turn of life, we actively invite God’s authority. It’s not enough to trust God in some things and take control in others. He asks us to make Him Lord over all aspects of our lives. As we navigate marriage, parenthood, and our careers, submission isn’t about losing freedom. Rather, it’s about gaining divine direction. When we submit to God’s wisdom, we open ourselves to His blessings, guidance, and peace. In parenting, for instance, this might mean setting aside our own desires or assumptions for our children and instead praying for God’s unique plans for them. “And He will make your paths straight” This promise of “straight paths” doesn’t mean an easy life, free of obstacles. Instead, it means that God will make our steps purposeful and aligned with His will. “Straight” paths signify clarity and direction, something we deeply desire but can’t achieve on our own. As parents, my wife and I find hope in this promise. While we don’t know exactly what’s ahead for our children, we trust that God will provide guidance as they grow. By teaching them to seek Him first, we’re laying a foundation of faith that will guide them long after they leave our home. 3. Applying Proverbs 3:5-6 in Daily Life Building Trust in Family Life For my wife and me, this verse has been a reminder, especially in times of change and uncertainty. We pray these words over our home, asking God to help us let go of our own “understanding” and submit to His will in every aspect of our marriage and family life. Trust in God often means releasing the illusion of control, which can feel risky. But over time, we’ve come to see that it’s the surest way to experience peace. Trusting God with Parenting Raising kids is perhaps one of the greatest acts of faith. As we watch them grow, each new stage requires us to trust God more. We might not always understand their choices, and we certainly won’t always be able to protect them. But by building our family life around Proverbs 3:5-6, we trust that God is guiding their paths as well. Seeking Wisdom Beyond Understanding Faith doesn’t eliminate questions, but it does transform them. Instead of asking, “Why is this happening?” we learn to ask, “Lord, how can I follow You through this?” Trust doesn’t promise easy answers, but it does promise His presence. 4. Resources for Deeper Study and Reflection To further understand and internalize Proverbs 3:5-6, here are some resources that have been helpful to me: - The NIV Study Bible: This Bible provides detailed commentary on verses, including Proverbs, offering insight into the original Hebrew words and cultural context. - Trusting God by Jerry Bridges: Bridges dives into what it truly means to trust God in all areas of life, offering a practical guide rooted in Scripture. - Proverbs: Wisdom that Works by Raymond C. Ortlund Jr.: This commentary explores Proverbs as a guide for wise living, providing deep insights into how we can apply its teachings today. - BibleHub: This online tool offers interlinear studies and various translations, allowing for a richer understanding of key phrases like “submit” or “lean not.” Final Reflection: Surrendering Each Day to Him When life brings unexpected changes or when doubt clouds our minds, Proverbs 3:5-6 serves as both an anchor and a challenge. It’s an invitation to experience God’s love in a more profound way by trusting Him completely. For me, that trust grows deeper each day as I learn to let go of my own understanding and place my family’s future in His hands. Trust isn’t just for the “big moments” in life; it’s a daily practice. Every time we choose to lean on God instead of our own plans, we teach our children a lesson in faith that no words could ever fully convey. And as He promises, if we trust Him with all our hearts, He will lead us on paths that are better and straighter than any we could imagine for ourselves. Closing Thought: "May we, like King David, be people after God’s own heart, trusting fully in His love, and may our lives reflect that trust in every step we take." Read the full article

[mychristianapparel]

(via Sweatshirt épais avec l'œuvre « Raising Believers - Faith-Focused Family » de l'artiste Lillyamstronger)

[jgregsawyer]

In this special episode, Greg and Tonya welcome their AI co-host, Ava, to discuss the unique challenges and principles of raising children with a Christian foundation in today’s culture. Ava plays the role of a curious interviewer, asking thoughtful questions about faith, parenting, and how Christian values influence family life. Tune in for an engaging conversation that explores the differences between secular and Christian parenting approaches, offering insights and practical advice for parents navigating the complexities of modern society.

[jugglingallthethings]

5 Effective Ways to Study Scripture as a Busy Mom

As a busy mom, finding time for scripture study can be challenging. However, making time for this spiritual practice can bring immense benefits to your life and family. Studying scripture can provide you with guidance, strength, and peace in the midst of your busy schedule. It can also help you grow in your faith and become a better parent, role model, and leader in your household. Set Aside…

[mommaching]

Homeschooling with Faith: Illuminating Our Paths with Christ's Timeless Wisdom

As a homeschooling mom, I often reflect on the wisdom and guidance we can draw from the teachings of Jesus Christ. In today's world filled with distractions and uncertainties, His words offer a timeless beacon of light to illuminate our paths and guide us towards a life filled with meaning and purpose. 🌟

When I think about the saying, "He who follows Me, walks not in darkness," it resonates deeply with me. Just as I strive to lead my children by example in our homeschooling journey, Christ's life serves as the ultimate model for us to emulate. It's not just about listening to His words but embodying His spirit in all aspects of our daily lives. 🙏

In homeschooling, I've learned that true wisdom lies not only in knowledge but in the pursuit of a virtuous life pleasing to God. Living with humility, grace, and love has a profound impact on our family dynamics. It's not about reciting verses or philosophical teachings but about cultivating a genuine connection with God through our actions and intentions. ❤️

Amidst our busy lives, it's easy to get caught up in worldly pursuits that ultimately lead to emptiness. Through homeschooling, I've realized the importance of instilling values that transcend material wealth and superficial desires. Seeking the Kingdom of Heaven through simplicity, humility, and service is at the heart of our journey. ✨

Let's focus on the eternal rather than the temporary. The pursuit of spiritual growth, love, and selflessness far outweighs the fleeting pleasures of this world. By turning our hearts towards the invisible truths and letting go of earthly attachments, we pave the way for a deeper connection with God and each other. 🌿

Join me as I share the joys and challenges of our homeschooling journey, inspired by Christ's timeless wisdom. It's not about perfection but about progress, not about knowledge but about love, and not about worldly accolades but about serving with a humble heart.

🌼 Click [here]to read more! 🌼

[fostering-the-inner-child]

How the Lord's Love Can Heal Your Traumatized Child

As a parent, watching your child go through trauma can be one of the most difficult things you'll ever experience. It's hard to know what to do or how to help them heal. As a Christian, one of the most helpful things you can do is remind your child of the powerful love that God has for them. In this blog post, we'll explore how the Lord's love can heal your traumatized child and help them find peace and joy.

1. God as a Comforter When children go through trauma, they may feel alone, scared, and powerless. Reminding them that God is always there to comfort them is a powerful tool for healing. Psalm 46:1 says, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." Sharing this verse with your child can help them feel safe and supported. You can also encourage them to pray and talk to God whenever they feel afraid or sad.

2. Forgiveness and Grace Trauma can cause feelings of shame, guilt, and anger. In times like this, it's important to remind your child that God's love is unconditional. He forgives us no matter what we've done and shows us grace that we don't deserve. Talking about the power of forgiveness and how it can provide healing and restoration can help your child let go of negative emotions and find peace.

3. God's Plans for Their Life Sometimes when children go through trauma, they may feel like their life is ruined or that they'll never be happy again. This is where the truth of God's plans for our lives comes in. Jeremiah 29:11 says, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." This verse can provide comfort and hope to your child, reminding them that their future is bright and full of promise.

4. The Power of Community Trauma can be isolating, but it's important for your child to know that they're not alone. Being part of a Christian community can provide a sense of belonging and support that's essential for healing. Encourage your child to get involved in church activities, Bible studies, or youth groups. When they see that other people care about them and are there for them, it can make a big difference in their healing journey.

5. Trusting in God's Plan Ultimately, the key to healing from trauma is trusting in God's plan for our lives. Even when we don't understand why things happen or how to move forward, we can trust that God has a purpose and a plan. Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Helping your child to understand this truth can provide hope and healing.

If your child has gone through trauma, it's important to remember that healing is a process. But by reminding them of the powerful love that God has for them, you can help them find peace and joy even in the midst of difficult times. Encourage them to trust in God's plan, to rely on his comfort and grace, and to be part of a Christian community that supports and loves them. With time, your child can heal and move forward into a future that's bright and full of promise.

[juliefederico]

Some Parts are NOT for Sharing being made into a Netflix movie

Winter 2023  Some Parts are NOT for Sharing is being made into a movie for Netflix.  This is a child's first book on body safety and will protect your child from ongoing child abuse.

[solradguy]

👉👈 do you think his name is Sinjamin Kiske and everyone just started calling him Sin, and then Ky was like, “This is going to do irreversible damage to my street cred as a father. #ChristianParenting #Struggles #HisNameIsn’taDepitctionofMyViewofMySonILoveHimALot.” and then Sol said, “Did you just say hashtags out loud?” and then Ky said, “I’m married to a crystal, Sol.”

yes

[snapdragonsimming]

thedelacruzfamily Whenever I’m asked for counsel by a young family, I always say the same thing: open communication is KEY. As a mother of 14 children ranging in age from 8 to 25 (Teresa and Lea pictured here- what a precious moment!), I’ve found that it’s MOST important to know your children’s hearts. How can you guide them on their God-given paths if you don’t know what they’re STRUGGLING with?

For instance, when they were young, we endured a period of TRIAL with two of our middle daughters, Sofia and Caterina. They both struggled with their faith, and everyone in our family worried that they might BACKSLIDE right into sin. Thankfully, with help from @pastorandmrsbernard and our wider church community, we were able to set them on the RIGHT PATH by the time they turned 11 and 10 respectively, and now I’m blessed to say they’re both incredibly committed to living out God’s Word! In fact, they recently returned from a mission to Selvadorada organized specifically for faithful young adults.

....And to think, we NEVER would have known they were straying from God had we not SPOKEN to them about their CHALLENGES!

#faith #family #christianparenting #advice

181 likes, 8 comments

jdandalthea ❤️

gabrieldelacruz Couldn’t have asked for better parents to guide me on my faith journey!

prayingonproverbs31 as a young wife and mommy, this advice was sorely needed!! with three under four (and a husband! L O L) to look after it’s tough to find time for my each of my littles’ spiritual needs. thank you guys 🫶

thedelacruzfamily @prayingonproverbs31 Nothing is more important than your family’s walk with the Lord. Praying for you!

[jen-sketch]

The ‘Very Best Bible Stories’ now in Japanese! I recently came across one of my journals from 12 years ago. In it I had written about my trip to Cameroon with the Wycliffe Bible Translators. I travelled to Africa while at university and was still unsure exactly what I would do with my life. Illustration? Animation? Photography?... but maybe, if I had been paying more attention, I would have noticed that trip presented me with a big clue. A heavenly ‘breadcrumb’ on the path I should follow. Of all the charities I could have picked, this one would prove to be one of the most significant, and it has only just dawned on me why it was so important. I had the wonderful opportunity to watch the delight on people’s faces as they heard the word of God in their mother tongue. Some cried, others clapped and cheered, while many people sat on the edge of their seats in silence, hanging on every word. Coming from Northern Ireland, where there is ready access to places of worship and the word of God, it’s hard to comprehend that there are people on the other side of the world who risk their lives to read from the bible. I am forever grateful that I get to be a part of retelling the world’s greatest story and so thankful that I followed the ‘breadcrumbs’ that brought me to The Goodbook Company. @thegoodbookcompanyuk @thegoodbookcompanyusa • #verybestbiblestories #childrensbooks #kidsbooks #booksforkids #christianbooks #christianbooksforkids #biblestories #biblestory #christianmom #christianparenting #christianhomeschool #toddlerlife #kidsministry #churchathome #childrensministry #kidschurch #bibleart #christianart #christianchurch #sundayschool #homeschool #homeschoolmom #homeschooling #homeschoolmama #homeschoollife #jenniferdavison #jen_sketch #jensketches https://www.instagram.com/p/Cl6sTNZKtBP/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[thebookhavenblog]

Trusting God in Uncertainty: A Family Perspective

Quote:“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” — Proverbs 3:5-6 Reflection: Understanding the Call to Trust At first glance, Proverbs 3:5-6 is one of the most frequently quoted verses in Christian circles, often memorized as a touchstone of faith. But as we dig deeper into these words,…

[bookhavenblog]

Finding Christ in Our Suffering Journey

In every Christian’s journey, perseverance is one of the central themes, a virtue that feels inseparable from true faith. As I reflect on my role as a husband and father, the importance of perseverance grows clearer every day—not just for me, but for the legacy of faith I hope to pass down to my children. The reality is, perseverance in faith isn’t just about enduring hard times; it’s about knowing, as Christ taught us, that hardship will come if we truly follow Him. “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me,” Jesus said. And in that challenge, we find the powerful promise of an eternal reward: not comfort or worldly peace, but Christ Himself. The Call to Suffer for Christ When we look to scripture, it’s clear that following God isn’t a path free from pain. In fact, quite the opposite is true. Jesus warns us that suffering is inevitable: “In this world, you will have trouble,” He says in John 16:33. Yet, He follows this with a promise that has carried Christians through centuries of hardship—“But take heart! I have overcome the world.” The reality of suffering in the Christian life is not only inevitable, but it’s also purposeful, a call to take up our cross, as Christ did, and find our strength, hope, and joy in Him alone. There’s a unique peace that comes with recognizing suffering as a part of our faith. And it’s that peace I want my children to carry with them as they grow. They’ll face trials in their lives—friendships that challenge them, pressures that test their values, and later on, the trials that come with adulthood. It’s up to me to help them understand that suffering, while hard, is something God can and will use to deepen our faith and draw us closer to Himself. Perseverance in Fantasy: Stories That Echo Our Faith As a lover of fantasy, I’ve always found that this genre holds some of the most profound insights into perseverance and suffering. In The Lord of the Rings, for instance, Tolkien—himself a Christian—creates a journey for Frodo that’s nearly impossible, a task of unimaginable burden. Frodo’s suffering, from battling the power of the Ring to trekking through Mordor, isn’t portrayed as something temporary or trivial. It’s a prolonged, painful journey that ultimately brings him closer to understanding what it means to surrender and accept grace. As Christians, we can relate to this deeply. Our journey with Christ isn’t always about victory or freedom from suffering; often, it’s about walking faithfully through hardship and discovering God’s presence within it. Books like The Chronicles of Narnia also introduce young readers to these themes in ways that resonate. Aslan’s character, who sacrifices himself and rises again, reflects the greatest act of love and endurance the world has known—Christ’s own suffering and victory over death. As I read stories like these with my children, I’m reminded that these tales are more than just entertainment. They’re an invitation to explore the realities of faith, suffering, and the powerful hope we have in God. Teaching Perseverance and Purpose to Our Children For my kids, perseverance is something they’re still learning. My daughter, in her preteen years, faces her own struggles with friendships, school, and her growing independence. My toddler, of course, is beginning to tackle his own small frustrations and challenges. And as a father, I know that the way I respond to these moments of difficulty will shape how they understand suffering and perseverance. One of the best ways to teach perseverance, I think, is to introduce our kids to stories that mirror real-life struggles. By reading together, we can talk openly about what it means to face hardship. Sometimes, I use a story to discuss the times a character feels alone, the way Frodo feels burdened by the Ring or the way Lucy in Narnia has to stand for what she believes, even when others doubt her. These stories give us words and images that make the journey of faith and perseverance relatable to their young minds. In these conversations, I try to stress that while perseverance is about strength, it’s also about surrender. We don’t endure suffering on our own; rather, we’re called to lay our burdens at the foot of the cross and trust that Jesus walks with us, giving us the strength we don’t have on our own. Finding Christ as Our Greatest Reward As I grow in my own faith, I’m constantly reminded that perseverance is less about reaching a goal and more about deepening our relationship with Christ. When we suffer, when we persist, and when we stay faithful, our true reward isn’t a happier or easier life; it’s Christ Himself. Philippians 3:8 says it perfectly: “I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” There is no treasure more valuable, no reward more satisfying, than drawing nearer to God Himself. I hope that as my children grow, they’ll come to see suffering not as something to avoid, but as a way to deepen their relationship with Christ. And I pray that they’ll embrace perseverance as a means to follow Jesus more closely, knowing that while the path is narrow and challenging, the ultimate prize—Christ—is worth every step. For my family, books have become a shared language for these conversations. Stories of brave heroes and complex journeys remind us that we’re all part of a bigger story, one where the end isn’t about earthly victory but a heavenly one. And in every moment of doubt or hardship, I hope my kids remember that they can rely on Christ, who endured the ultimate suffering on our behalf, so that we might have eternal life with Him. Walking the Path of Perseverance Together Perseverance, then, isn’t about gritting our teeth and pushing through on our own. It’s about surrendering to God, trusting in His promises, and allowing Him to work through us. As a family, we remind ourselves that Christ is our hope, our strength, and our reward. Through every challenge and trial, we walk together, trusting in the promise that He is with us always. In every season, we find ourselves returning to stories of perseverance, both in scripture and in literature. They remind us of the beauty in struggle and the hope that awaits us. And more than anything, they remind us that we are never alone, for Christ walks each step with us, drawing us closer to Him and promising us an eternal reward that surpasses any earthly treasure. How about you? Are there particular books or Bible verses that help you persevere? I’d love to hear about the stories or experiences that have inspired you in your own walk with God. Read the full article

[jgregsawyer]

In this episode, we talk about the challenges we face as Christian parents trying to raise kids who stay true to their identity in a culture that pushes back against biblical values.  We discuss insights from real-life situations, like how cultural shifts are affecting family dynamics, and how we’re trying to guide our kids through these identity challenges. We talk about the dangers of letting culture define who we are, and why it’s so important to root our identity in what God says about us. Plus, we explore how to balance protecting our kids from harmful influences while also preparing them to think critically about the world around them. We keep it practical, encouraging fellow parents to build strong, biblical foundations early on, helping our kids develop a sense of belonging and purpose rooted in God's love. We chat about the cultural pressures that can shake this identity and share our thoughts on how Christian families can stick together and stay grounded in their faith.