The Israelites were to pass on God’s truth to the next generation (Deuteronomy 4:9). In the New Testament, the apostle Paul writes to Timothy, who’d been impacted by women of faith from two different generations: “I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also” (2 Timothy 1:5). The apostle also noted how God’s truth had contributed to Timothy’s development: “From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” (3:15). Today, we can ask God to help us nurture the spiritual lives of future generations.

The Present Truth # 16
A Happy Family.

The Perfect Home
An artist was commissioned to paint a picture 1 security, love, and peace. After considerable thought about each characteristic, he finally decided this could best be illustrated in the peace and security of a happy home.

It is true that this is everyone's ideal, everyone's dream. The hope of true happiness and contentment on earth and a life of heavenly bliss is dreamed of by many, but how few seem to realize this ultimate of goals.

Most marriages start out right, with the partners riding on the glorious clouds of blissful hopes and dreams of the future. Why does the collapse come with its heartbreak and separation? Why are there so many unhappy homes, bewildered children, and separated parents?

The uplifting of humanity begins with the individual and becomes a reality when lived in the family. The influence of the home goes further than the neighborhood. It influences the whole of society which is made up of families. Society degrades spiritually and morally when the product of the family offers nothing better than what they themselves learned and practiced since childhood. Assets, money, position, friends, all have their place, but these cannot bring lasting happiness. This can only be found where practical, experimental, God fearing living exists. Everyone should be happy, and this is within the reach of all.

Origin of the Happy Family
“But for Adam there was not found an help meet for him” Genesis 2:20. Therefore God created a companion: “And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should he alone; I will make him an help meet for him.” Genesis 2:18.

Man and woman were perfect when God created and united them in sacred wedlock. People were not made to dwell in solitude. In the joining of two lives in a bond of unity, our Creator instituted the "law of marriage."

“Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Genesis 2:24.

“Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” Matthew 19:6.

The Garden of Eden was a most beautiful gift that God gave to the first couple. It had pleasant surroundings and was a pattern of the home and home environment for future happy families on this earth.

Not long after the fall, the blessed institution of marriage was lowered to such an extent that God could not tolerate the abomination of unsanctified marriages (and other evils) among the earth's inhabitants. This corruption was having such a devastating effect upon God's remaining children, that God eventually destroyed the corrupt inhabitants of the earth with the flood.

“And it came to pass, when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born unto them, that the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair; and they took them wives of all which they chose.” Genesis 6:1, 2.

Unlawful marriages between children of the righteous with children of the unbelievers caused wickedness to spread rapidly through the earth and led to the destruction of the antediluvian people. This unequal yoke is one of the causes of human degradation today.

“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?” 2 Corinthians 6:14, 15.

It is God's purpose through the gospel to restore marriage to its original place. Families who have been separated for different reasons can be reunited through the gospel. Parents and children should be linked together in a happy home.

“Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: and he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.” Malachi 4:5, 6.

“. . . Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things.” Matthew 17:11.

Perfect restoration may only be genuinely accomplished when it harmonizes with God's Word.

Responsibility of the Husband
Happiness in the home depends very much on the husband. He should be interested in the welfare of his family. His sympathies toward his wife and children are essential. His words should be soft, gentle, full of tenderness, yet resolute. The wise man tells us: “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.” Proverbs 15:1, 2.

The husband should never forget that he is responsible for his family. He is the head of the house: “For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church.” Ephesians 5:23.

Although the husband is the head, he should not tread underfoot his wife. Eve was taken from Adam's side, to symbolize her place by his side. Eve was not to rule, but to be a helper and companion. Husbands must love their wives; each is to complement the other.

“Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it.” Ephesians 5:25.

When the husband comes home he should put aside his troubles of the day. He should have a ready smile and courteous words for his family. His wife and children need his advice, strength and help, as well as the sympathy, tenderness, and love. "Please excuse me," "I am sorry," "thank you," should be spontaneous words from his lips.

A good man will rule his family with wisdom: “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.” James 3:17.

The behavior of the parents toward their children is very important. When parents set a good example, children will be quick to follow. Actions speak louder than words. Parents should not provoke their children: “And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” Ephesians 6:4.

If the husband fulfils his duty, he sets in motion the first steps toward happiness in the home.

Responsibility of the Wife
Happiness also depends on the wife. She may not be happy with the furnishings of the house. Unnecessary complaints may arise. Overtired and weary, her patience may be frayed. When the husband comes home, he should not be bombarded with all the problems of the day. Solomon says: “It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman.” Proverbs 21:19.

“Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything.” Ephesians 5:24.“Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.” Colossians 3:18.

If the husband is unreasonable and requires that which is contrary to the will of the Lord, she should not submit herself. But if the request is in harmony with the Lord, it is her duty to obey and accept the decision of the husband, because this is God's command. However, seldom should this be necessary, for both partners should work in cooperation with each other, considering the needs and desires of the spouse before decisions are made.

While the husband is away from the home, the wife has the responsibility to educate the children and mold their characters. This task is a lifelong responsibility and if faithful, she will be rewarded with the beautiful qualities of a well-principled family here, and the promise of an undivided family in heaven.

Timothy's mother and grandmother are examples of faithful women: “When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.” 2 Timothy 1:5.

A diligent, faithful woman is of more value than any amount of material gain: “Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. . . . She looketh well to the ways of her household and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.” Proverbs 31:10-12, 27, 28.

The Education of Children
The education of children in the home should start from infancy. They need to form correct habits and training from the cradle. Their minds are plastic, and impressions are easily made.

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6.

Parents should not forget that they are responsible for the future of their children. On the other hand children must know the fifth commandment by heart and by practice: “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12.

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise.” Ephesians 6:1, 2.

Sometimes corrections involve punishment. The wise king Solomon says: “The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame. . . . Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.” Proverbs 29:15, 17.

A practical religion in a family is vitally important. Every morning and every evening the family should come together and offer their prayers to God. The children should also take part in this worship. The reading of the Bible is essential during this great educational period as it builds a hedge about the children.

“And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” 2 Timothy 3:15.

The family circle is the school in which the child receives its first and most enduring lessons. Their own household is the first missionary field in which parents are required to labor.

“Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them.” Ecclesiastes 12:1.

The Ideal Home
“Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them. Children, obey your parent in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.” Colossians 3:18-21.

The family has a sacred circle where nobody should intrude. Husbands and wives should carry the burdens of one another, and keep between themselves every defect that one may find in the other. Nobody but Jesus should know what happens in the marriage circle. They should ask Him what is right and what is wrong, for to Him they will have to render an account.

The key to happiness is found in the following Bible verses: “Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shalt be well will thee.” Psalm 128:1, 2.

Remember to fear the Lord, to walk in His ways, and to eat of the labor of your hands, because this is the way to happiness. The promise reads: “happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee.”

Husbands, wives, and children must strive to fulfil their duties. Their home could be as heaven on earth, or it could deteriorate into a living hell. Make your home a happy one, by walking in the counsels of God.

When Jesus comes again, many faithful parents will bring their children to the Lord. They have been saved by their untiring efforts and persevering prayers: “Behold, l and the children whom the Lord hath given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the Lord of hosts, which dwelleth in mount Zion.” Isaiah 8:18.

Keeping and Passing the Faith

Written By Victor Bowen
“And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.”
2 Timothy 2:2 (ESV)
A campfire only lasts if someone keeps feeding it. Years ago, I watched the final night of a retreat end with church members quietly lighting candles from one central flame. One by one, the light spread across the room until every candle burned brightly. No one lost their flame by sharing it. The light only multiplied.

That image returns to me whenever I read Paul’s words to Timothy.

Paul was nearing the end of his life. He wasn’t building a platform or protecting his legacy. He was thinking generationally. The gospel had been entrusted to him, and now he was entrusting it to Timothy, who would one day entrust it to others. The mission of Jesus was never meant to stop with one person or one generation.

We often think of spiritual legacy in dramatic terms — preaching to crowds, writing books, leading ministries. But Scripture shows us that legacy is usually formed through ordinary faithfulness. Moses walked with Joshua. Elijah mentored Elisha. Lois and Eunice quietly shaped Timothy’s faith at home. Their influence stretched far beyond what they could see in the moment.
When I think about my own walk with Jesus, I realize how much of my faith was passed to me through simple acts of obedience from others. Someone prayed for me consistently. Someone opened Scripture with me. Someone modeled repentance instead of pretending to have it all together. Someone showed me what it looked like to depend on the Holy Spirit in everyday life.

None of those people were famous. But their faithfulness still bears fruit.

Sometimes we underestimate the impact of investing in one person. We may never know how God will multiply one conversation, one prayer, or one act of encouragement. The Kingdom often grows quietly, like seeds beneath the soil. But the Holy Spirit delights in using ordinary believers who are willing to pour into others.

Discipleship is not about having all the answers. It is about walking closely with Jesus and inviting others to do the same. As we remain rooted in Scripture, dependent on prayer, and surrendered to the Spirit, God forms a legacy that outlives us.
The question is not whether we have influence. We all do. The question is what we are passing on.

*Jesus, thank you for the people who faithfully passed their faith on to me. Help me to walk closely with you and to invest intentionally in others. Fill me with your Spirit so that my life points people toward you. Teach me to think beyond myself and to live for the generations that follow. Amen. *

Throughout this Day:
Think about one person who has shaped your faith. Reach out and thank them. Then ask God to show you one person you can intentionally encourage or disciple this week.

The Bibles Sabbath # 4
Please, share these lessons with your family, friends, and Facebook groups. To enhance the Kingdom of GOD.

How Celebrating the Sabbath Can Strengthen Your Family Relationships

What Day do You Go to Church? The Hope Channel Helped This Couple Find the Right Day

Did you know that keeping the Sabbath can help make your family stronger?

After all, it’s a time set aside by God to enjoy all that He created—from the air we breathe to the people we come in contact with each day.

By stepping away from work, school, and all the other obligations and stressors of the week, we can enter into rest and communion with God. This allows us to better connect with those around us as well.

Let’s look at exactly how Sabbath can provide the focused, quality time to build up your relationships with those you love.

Review: Why was the Sabbath created?

How is the Sabbath beneficial to families?

What did families in the Bible do to grow spiritually?

Ideas for celebrating the Sabbath with our families (and friends)

First, let’s look back at why the Sabbath was created and how it’s perfect for uniting families as they focus on God.

WHY WAS THE SABBATH CREATED?

The Sabbath was created as a gift on the seventh day of Creation (Genesis 2:1-3). God had our well-being in mind during the first creation week. He knew how much we’d need time set apart to refresh our weary hearts and remember how much He loves us.

He also knew the importance of taking a moment to revel in the goodness of His creation. And in the beautiful relationships that are part of it.

The word “Sabbath” comes from the Hebrew word shabbat, which means to stop or pause for the purpose of rest.

At the first shabbat, right after creating the world, God stopped His work and rested on the seventh day, enjoying what He just made, as an example to us.

After a long day’s work, we’re worn out. We need physical rest from our labor. The blessing of the Sabbath restores us physically, spiritually, and emotionally:

We are able to physically rest on the Sabbath

We are able to reconnect with God by reading His word and being in His presence

Through these things, we are able to strengthen our family relationships and help fulfill one another’s emotional needs.

So let’s look more closely at exactly how the Sabbath helps us enrich our relationships, especially with our families.

HOW IS THE SABBATH BENEFICIAL TO FAMILIES?

True rest is more beneficial than we might realize. Taking time to hit pause allows us time to focus on what is truly important in life.

During the week, we tend to forget to prioritize our relationships as we get caught up in deadlines, work projects, home projects, etc.

The Sabbath helps us realign our priorities.

God knew that prearranged, set-aside time is highly beneficial for keeping relational bonds strong. Relationships need nurture. Or they can wither over time.

So it’s no surprise that families who spend more time together are stronger and happier.

In fact, time and proximity alone can be enough to spark new friendships. Consistently being in the presence of someone helps us bond in ways we aren’t even aware of, or can’t always put into words.

And each Sabbath, this can happen regularly between us and God, and between us and our loved ones.

To help us understand what this looks like, let’s see what we can find in Scripture.

WHAT DID FAMILIES IN THE BIBLE DO TO GROW SPIRITUALLY?

It’s God’s design for families to worship and pray together. We see in the book of Deuteronomy that prayer, worship, and knowledge in the Lord were encouraged to be part of an everyday regimen:

And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart.

You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.

You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes.

You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.

Deuteronomy 6:6-9 (ESV)

For God’s people, faith is a part of their everyday lives. Parents are to teach their children the Scriptures and the commandments of God, including the Sabbath.

Writing to Timothy, Paul says:

I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.

2 Timothy 1:5 (ESV)

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 3:14, 15 (ESV)

Timothy’s mother and grandmother taught him to be a faithful follower of Christ. What a wonderful legacy to pass down to future generations.

We can learn so much from the faithful people in the Bible. We can also use the example of Jesus to learn ways to keep the Sabbath as a family.

In the Bible, Jesus:

Rested by communing with God and others (Matthew 27:58-60)

Healed the sick (Mark 3:1; John 5:2; John 9; Luke 13)

Taught people about the love of God (Matthew 12:19; Mark 1:21; Mark 6:2)

Spent quality time with/shared meals with loved ones (Matthew 12; Luke 14:1)

We can use these activities as starting points for other ideas. Participating in things that align with Jesus’ actions on the Sabbath can restore our family relationships and bring us closer to our Heavenly Father.

IDEAS TO CELEBRATE SABBATH WITH YOUR FAMILY

Keeping the Sabbath is really about spending your time focusing on those things in life that really matter. Try planning activities on the Sabbath that can bring you closer to God and your family.

Creating family traditions for the Sabbath can help make the day something to enjoy and look forward to. It can also create stronger bonds between us and God.

Some of these traditions can revolve around:

Preparing for the Sabbath

Beginning the Sabbath

Enjoying Sabbath meals

Spending quality time with God, each other, and fellow believers

Let’s explore each of these in detail to help us find ways to strengthen our families.

#1 Preparing for the Sabbath

Sabbath preparation will help you:

Anticipate the Sabbath and feel more rested

Bond through working together on shared tasks

First of all, observing the Sabbath is so much easier when you don’t have to worry about things like:

What you will all eat

If the house is clean

If you have the things on hand you’ll need for the weekend

Preparing your home for the Sabbath is the first step in making sure you’re able to truly rest. It’s easy to still feel stressed if your environment is still messy or full of half-done projects.

Secondly, participating in preparation activities is a great way to spend quality time together. Doing cooperative tasks ensures that everyone plays a part in making Sabbath special.

Here are some ways you can work together to prepare before Sabbath day so that it can be as restful as possible:

Cleaning the house

Filling the gas tanks in your vehicles

Grocery shopping

Planning your Sabbath menu

Preparing food ahead of time

Choosing what you’ll wear to church

Shopping for items you need for the weekend

Switch things up each week, too, if you feel like that might help. For example, one week, the children of the household can plan the menu and help with grocery shopping, and on another week they can help with preparing the house.

Or, each week your family can decide on a certain part of the house to add some Sabbath decoration to, like Sabbath candles, a framed Bible verse, a special table setting, or a reminder of God’s creation, like a bouquet of wildflowers that you picked together.

These are just some examples of how Sabbath preparation can involve all members of the family. When we work together, we nourish our relationships and look forward to the restfulness of the end result: the Sabbath.

When it comes to your family, you know each other best. You might come up with all kinds of things you’ll look forward to doing (or not doing!) each week as you prepare for Sabbath.

#2 Beginning the Sabbath

Each member can play a part in greeting the Sabbath each Friday evening and making it special.

For some ideas on how to do that, a few Jewish traditions for Sabbath observance can give us a fun starting point with a biblical basis.

Since the Sabbath begins at sundown, some people light “Sabbath candles,” and a member of the family chooses a passage to read from the Bible.

You can make this specific to your family by letting each member share their favorite Bible verse or singing a praise song together.

Also, instead of greeting people with a “hello” like every other day of the week, try greeting each other with “Happy Sabbath!”

#3 Enjoying Sabbath Meals

One of the best ways to bond with people is over food, right? So it would only make sense to make Sabbath meals a special time to enjoy together.

A special meal on Friday night and Saturday afternoon is a wonderful way to relax and enjoy your favorite things while you celebrate the Sabbath.

To make it even more special, you can make your own food traditions to become part of your Sabbath celebration.

Maybe Friday night you always serve soup with Jewish Challah bread.

Or perhaps you make your favorite homemade pizza. Or make fresh lemonade.

Of course, you don’t have to have the same kind of food each week for Sabbath. It’s really all about making the day meaningful for your family and spending time together. Match your traditions to what your family enjoys.

(But a word of caution: Be careful not to let the traditions become more important than the fellowship—or your health! If, over time, some things become stressful or tiresome to maintain, or if they just lose some of their original excitement, remember that the priority is restful, bonding, God-focused time. No need to put too much pressure on yourself or your family.)

#4 SPECIAL SABBATH ACTIVITIES

Setting aside special activities to reserve for Sabbath can help you spend time with God, serve others, and spend meaningful time with your family.

To start, ask your family what activities they think would be fun to do on Sabbath. (These could possibly become the Sabbath traditions or rituals you grow to enjoy and remember.) Even brainstorming these traditions together can be an activity in and of itself!

For instance: Perhaps your family would like to wake up early on Sabbath morning for breakfast together or for a nature walk.

Or, maybe you pre-make a delicious breakfast together the day before, so you can all sleep in!

Or maybe you decide to volunteer somewhere together, like a soup kitchen, a nursing home, a children’s home, a community service center, etc.

Get creative and work together to plan for making Sabbath special each week.

But always remember that Sabbath’s real blessing is about enjoying God’s creation and spending time with those He gave us in our families.

Sabbath does not have to become all about how creative of an activity can you come up with, or how many things you can do that are uniquely for the Sabbath, etc.

This special day is also made to restore our souls. Some weeks, you may not feel like doing anything!

And that might be just what you and your family need. Some Sabbaths can be celebrated by embracing shabbat, by stopping everything else and just relaxing together, enjoying one another’s company, thanking God for this opportunity.

92 SABBATH ACTIVITY IDEAS FAMILIES CAN DO TOGETHER

Enjoy Friday night worship with family and friends

Ask for prayer requests and pray together

Take a hike or spend time in nature

Play a Bible Trivia game

Visit a neighbor or church member.

Study the Bible together

Draw or illustrate Bible stories

Do crafts to illustrate Bible characters or stories

Play musical instruments together

Read a Sabbath book out loud

Listen to a Sabbath podcast

Listen to Your Story Hour stories on CD or online

Visit online sites to answer spiritual questions people have

Invite a less fortunate family over to visit

Learn new praise songs

Write a song

Use Bible-based conversation starters to connect with one another

Draw discussion topics from a hat and talk about them

Brings treats to your neighbor and fellowship together

Take food to a homeless shelter or volunteer to help

Visit a nursing home

Invite friends to the park for a campfire and songs

Hold a Bible story time in the park

Give a Bible study to a new believer

Write and share your personal testimony

Share Bible tracts with people in town

Visit widows or shut-ins who belong to your church

Create a Bible scene with felts

Play Bible charades

Look through old family photo albums

Color in a pretty nature-themed coloring book

Create “Top Ten” lists: Bible stories, sea animals, pets, etc.

Go on a nature scavenger hunt

Visit with relatives

Go on a walk

Dress in costume and do a Bible skit

Video chat with friends or family who live far away

Write letters to missionaries and pray for them

Go camping with your family or church group

Put a nature puzzle together

Do a topical Bible study

Study trees and learn how to identify them

Offer to babysit children for a single parent

Read the words to a hymn and discuss the meaning

Sing songs around the piano

Listen to Christian music

Have a special Sabbath box of toys and activities for the children

Do Bible crossword puzzles

Play a Bible board game

Pray outside together

Read miracle stories

Pray for the family you plan to visit next week

Quietly watch the sun as it sets on Saturday evening

Call someone who wasn’t at church and let them know they were missed

Share one thing you love about each other

Visit prison inmates or start a prison ministry

Visit an orphanage

Talk about what heaven might be like together

Study the Sabbath school lesson

Think of questions you’d like to ask Jesus

Take a cd copy of the sermon to someone who missed church

Have family worship outside

Write a letter to Jesus or color a picture for Jesus

Learn a memory verse

Invite someone to your home who can’t return the favor

Make a gratitude list

Pick someone up for church who doesn’t have a ride

Take church magazines or literature to a neighbor or friend who would appreciate them

Write down your prayer requests and answers to prayers

Take your dog for a long walk or to the park

Take a meal to a shut-in or a family with a new baby

Turn off the lights on Friday night and use candles instead

Memorize Scripture songs

Visit a national forest

Invite someone to attend church with your family

Interview the oldest member of your church

Make handmade cards to send to someone who is sick

Make a shoebox diorama of your favorite Bible story

Spread a blanket in the grass and find pictures in the clouds

Have an “object lesson:” Each person picks an object and shares a lesson from the Bible using that object

Talk about how to honor and respect God’s house

Write a parable in your own words

Write a letter to a Bible character

Discuss the highlights of the pastor’s sermon over supper

Take a bike ride together

Plan a random act of kindness

Find gospel quotes to share on social media

Write in a family journal

Pick flowers and take them to a friend or neighbor

Talk about family values and what they mean to you

Write a thank you note to someone who was kind to you this week

Attend your local church

When you put in effort toward celebrating the Sabbath as a family, you can find yourselves blessed in countless ways. The Bible even tells us that God wants us to find the Sabbath “a delight” (Isaiah 58:13).

Eve- the first mother -mother of all living.
Sarah- the promised mother- mother of Isaac
Jochebed- the courageous mother- mother of Moses
Bithiah- the Egyptian mother- adoptive mother of Moses
Hannah- the dedicating mother- mother of Samuel
Bathsheba- the persevering mother- mother of Solomon
Elizabeth- the miracle mother- mother of John the Baptist
Mary- the chosen mother- mother of Jesus Christ
Lois- the legacy mother-grandmother of Timothy
Eunice- the faithful mother- mother of Timothy

All mothers are blessings from Heaven but a godly mother holds the fort and builds up purpose-filled lives.

Mothers are chosen vessels to not only bring to life a creation by God Himself but to nurture, care, love, instruct and raise as well. It’s a GREAT privilege and an HOLY ASSIGNMENT.

Mothers are not perfect human beings nor should they be expected to. They are, though, the best version of themselves as humans when it comes to their children. It starts much before conception.

It starts when a girl is born and raised, not with pressure, comparison, expectations or societal taboos or limitations but when she is raised acknowledging the truth that she is made by God in His image, in His likeness. Such a girl learns her identity well-established in God and grows by kneeling down ONLY to God, day by day. Such a girl then choses to keep herself for the purpose of rearing generations to come. And there, with each day, she raises warriors who are ready to conquer and establish their God given purposes.

Remember, God created them even when man was already existing and had everything to his access. God created woman because she had a purpose, not only towards man as a helper but to produce and be fruitful. Remember, the same God created her anatomy with a womb in the first place.

The woman’s job continues on her knees before she conceives and after she gives birth.

She is on her toes as the toddlers start taking their first steps.

She holds her heart in her hands as the child is first exposed to the wild world, even if it is first day in school.

She pulls her mat and goes on her knees the moment her teenager starts stating I am grown up.

And this goes on as the child navigates life each day.

There is no such thing as a perfect mother. Each one of them is perfect for their own children in their own ways.

So, let’s not put the weight of performance on them.

Let’s honor and pray for strength and create some physical and emotional rest for the years of their “non-stop job” description.

There are spiritual mothers apart from birth mothers who helps you grow in your calling. They are the ones who are not only in constant intercession but also for guiding through the times.

There might also be mothers who are bit more lost in the grip of the world, not present enough to raise their children or be there for them as they were needed. Some of them may have realized this at later stage and might have been feeling guilty. For others, it might still not be their moment of realization.

Let’s also not forget mothers who might be battling with addictions, some with not-so-right choices, some who had to give away their children for adoption, and some who might be regretting the choice of abortion.

Then, there are mothers who lost their children, and mothers who offer themselves as foster mothers.

Then, there are men who are performing mothers as single parents. Every contribution is worthy of praise.

Hats off to the persistent perseverance of mothers who are raising specially-abled children.

Let’s also acknowledge the gift of surrogate mothers.

Today, let’s pray for them because everyone falls short somewhere. Each of them needs strength, guidance and grace.

For every woman needs GOD’s strength to be a mother.

Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers and mothers to be.

#immother
#lovingma
#todayismothersday
#mymomgodsgift
#godlymother
#Jesusgivenmother
#parentcounseling
#christiancounselling
#christianparent

A godly mother does more than raise children—she shapes generations.
Jochebed trusted God, Hannah prayed faithfully, and Eunice passed on sincere faith.
Their stories remind us that a mother’s love, prayers, and faith leave an eternal legacy.
#MothersDay #GodlyMother #Jochebed #Hannah #Eunice #ChristianMother #FaithfulMother #BibleWomen #Motherhood #ChristianFaith #PrayerfulMother #SpiritualLegacy #BiblicalWomanhood #FaithAndFamily #Proverbs31Woman #ChristianReels #InstaDevotion #BibleDevotion #JesusChrist #ChristianInspiration

Train Your Children in the Way of the Lord

Children are gifts from God. They are not only to be fed, clothed, and educated in worldly things, but they must also be trained in the fear, wisdom, and knowledge of God.

In today’s world, many children are growing without godly direction, and this has brought pain to families and society. God is calling parents, guardians, and the church to raise children in His way.

Training a child in the way of the Lord is not optional; it is a divine responsibility.

A child left without godly training may grow into confusion, rebellion, and destruction.

But a child trained in God’s way becomes a blessing to the family, the church, and the nation.

What Does It Mean to Train a Child in the Way of the Lord?

It means to teach, guide, correct, discipline, and model the life of Christ before them. It means helping them to know God, love His Word, obey His commands, and live a holy life.

Deuteronomy 6:6-7
“And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children…”

God wants His Word to be taught to children continually, not occasionally.

Why Must We Train Our Children in the Way of the Lord?

1. Because children belong to God

Psalm 127:3
“Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.”

Children are God’s heritage. They are entrusted into our hands for proper nurturing and spiritual development.

2. Because the world is full of evil influences

1 Corinthians 15:33
“Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.”

If parents do not train their children, the world will train them. Bad friends, immoral media, wrong teachings, and ungodly environments can destroy a child’s future.

3. Because godly training builds a strong foundation

Matthew 7:24-25
“Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man…”

A child trained in God’s Word will have a solid foundation that can withstand temptation, trials, and pressure.

4. Because it brings peace and joy to parents

Proverbs 29:17
“Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.”

A well-trained child becomes a source of joy, not sorrow.

How to Train Your Children in the Way of the Lord

1. Teach them the Word of God

Children must be taught the Scriptures from an early age.

2 Timothy 3:15
“And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation…”

Let them know Bible stories, memory verses, prayers, and the commandments of God.

2. Lead by example

Children learn more from what they see than from what they hear.

1 Timothy 4:12
“…be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”

Parents must live the life they want their children to follow. You cannot teach holiness and live in sin before them.

3. Discipline them with love
Discipline is part of godly training.

Proverbs 13:24
“He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.”

Correction should not be done in anger or wickedness, but in love, wisdom, and for the child’s good.

4. Pray for your children always
Prayer is one of the greatest gifts parents can give to their children.

Job 1:5
Job continually prayed and sanctified his children.

Parents must pray for their salvation, protection, wisdom, and destiny.

5. Bring them to the house of God

Teach children to love fellowship, worship, and the presence of God.

Psalm 122:1
“I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord.”

Do not let children grow up seeing church as punishment or burden.

6. Teach them obedience and respect

Children must be taught to obey God and honor authority.

Ephesians 6:1-3
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother…”

Obedience is one of the first signs of godly training.

Biblical Examples of Godly Training

1. Hannah trained Samuel

1 Samuel 1:27-28
Hannah dedicated Samuel to God, and he became a great prophet.

2. Lois and Eunice trained Timothy

2 Timothy 1:5
Timothy’s mother and grandmother passed sincere faith into him.

3. Joseph and Mary cared for Jesus

Luke 2:52
Jesus grew in wisdom, stature, and favor because He was raised under godly care.

Consequences of Failing to Train Children in God’s Way

1. Rebellion

1 Samuel 2:12
The sons of Eli became corrupt because they were not properly restrained.

2. Shame and sorrow

Proverbs 29:15
“A child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.”

3. Destruction of destiny

When children are not trained in the way of God, they may lose direction and ruin their future.

Benefits of Training Children in the Way of the Lord

1. They will fear God
2. They will grow in wisdom
3. They will become responsible adults
4. They will bring honor to the family
5. They will stand strong in times of temptation

Proverbs 20:7
“The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.”

Message to Parents

Parents must not hand over the total training of their children to schools, society, phones, television, or the internet.

Your child’s spiritual growth is your responsibility before God. Start early, be consistent, be prayerful, and never give up.

Conclusion

Training children in the way of the Lord is one of the greatest investments a parent can make.

Money can be lost and recovered, but when a child’s life is destroyed through lack of training, the pain can be deep.

Raise your children to know God, to fear Him, to obey Him, and to walk in righteousness. When they grow, they will remember the truth you planted in them.

Proverbs 22:6 remains the foundation:
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

Prayer Points

Father, give me wisdom to train my children in Your way.

Lord, let my children love You and serve You all their lives.

Every evil influence over my children, be destroyed in Jesus’ name.

Father, help me to be a godly example before my children.

My children shall not depart from the way of the Lord in Jesus’ name.

Pastor Abiodun Kadri












#TrainYourChildrenInTheWayOfTheLord #GodlyParenting #ChristianParenting #Proverbs226 #RaiseGodlyChildren #FamilyInChrist #BiblicalParenting #ChildrenOfGod #ParentingWithPurpose #TeachThemGodsWord

2 Timothy 1:5 NIV
I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.

Good morning and praise God. I hope you're doing well. Yesterday was an important day to mark start of a season called Lent. It is a reminder of how our Lord Jesus spent forty days and nights in prayer and fasting. After this , He was tempted and later His ministry began. It is a time that traditionally should remind Christians that life here on earth is temporal and they need to repent and believe in Jesus in order to gain eternal life. John 3:16. One thing that worries or better challenges me is how many younger people no longer have sincere faith that lived in generation that is slowing passing into eternity. For example, in practicing some of Christians traditions you find some who are so ignorant about it or rather the deeper meanings of these rituals. I was not worried when we witnessed that one of the girl in Russian guy video was taken from 'church' and in fact the pastors saw this man do som mischievous acts but for their own reasons it was just a visitor in their church. I know they may give the common false apology or blame the lady or just look for a way to cleanse themselves to the world but not God in Heaven. Where are we failing as believers in teaching sincere faith to the new generation ? One main thing is that very few adults live the faith they profess! They are the kind who avoids 'praise the Lord' beyond the church gate because it will harm their 'businesses'.Timothy was fortunate to learn and live his faith from his own grandmother, Lois and his mother Eunice. Paul who later in life as he mentored Timothy to be a leader saw this. He did not see a young man who was devoid of basics of Christianity like many are today but rather a young man who had already grown in sincere faith! My question to you is, how are you grooming your children in faith? Do they see you practicing what you believe or are you a wolve in sheep clothings? I think we need an inscription at home door post saying 'faith begins at home' to remind us that if we don't practically live our faith, we contribute to the faithless generation that is expanding exponentially. Going to church is not enough and also depending on what children teachers work hand to instill in your children; you must practically groom and nurture your children in faith. As a parent you must follow-up on what they were taught in there church school not just following with rituals such as dedication, baptism, confirmation and others. By the way many still want their kids baptised or confirmed after missing all classes and if the priest gets serious on it they hate him or her. It is a duty that God has given us to raise our kids in sincere faith. As we start this season of prayer and fasting, please do check on this. Deuteronomy 11:18-19 NIV "Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. " God loves you, have a blessed day. Shalom. Shalom.