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Discipling Our Children and Grandchildren with Love
Source: Photo by Robert Collins on Unsplash
When our children or grandchildren behave in a way that concerns us, we often feel the need to draw their attention to it in the hope it will correct their behaviour. Sometimes this has the desired result and sometimes it does not.
I truly wish I could say I am the perfect parent and grandparent, never losing my temper, or regretting anything I did or failed to do. Unfortunately, that is not my truth.
The Bible encourages us to raise our children in Godly ways:
Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it1.
Proverbs 22:6 (ESV)If you have a neurodiverse child (child on the spectrum), a child with special needs, or a child with high energy (ADHD), you may find yourself reprimanding them constantly. This can lead to both parties experiencing high levels of distress.
The parent or grandparent may be disheartened when they don’t receive the response they expect from the child. They may become punitive in an attempt to force obedience. In turn, the child may become discouraged and conclude there is something wrong with them. I am sure no parent nor grandparent wants to do this.
Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.
Colossians 3:21 (ESV)Children are a precious gift from God. They are only young for such a short time. As parents and grandparents, we must choose our words wisely as they may be remembered for many years after we are gone. How many of us can recall harsh remarks spoken over us as a child? How were we effected by those comments? Did they leave marks on our hearts and minds that still cause difficulties? We have the authority of the kingdom when we speak. Our words have the power to lift up or cast down:
The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
Proverbs 18:21 (NIV)Our children and grandchildren may be misreading and/or misunderstanding the cues we are sending. We don’t want them to lose hope of ever receiving the validation and encouragement they want from us. It can lead to a cycle of frustration and acting out which may spur parents and grandparents on to become more severe.
Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger [do not exasperate them to the point of resentment with demands that are trivial or unreasonable or humiliating or abusive; nor by showing favoritism or indifference to any of them], but bring them up [tenderly, with lovingkindness] in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
Ephesians 6:4 (ESV)Discipline in the bible comes from the root word disciple – which means student2. It indicates learning, studying, training and applying a system of standards. The disciples were learning and transforming the way they thought and behaved to become like Jesus. Discipline is not punishment nor enforcing compliance. The source of discipline is internal not external pressure.
As parents and grandparents, we can impart knowledge, guidance and instructions to children. However, eventually it is their choice to choose the discipline of living by Godly standards and values.
Our God does not force His way on us. He invites us to join Him of our own free will. How does our loving God treat us when we mess up? Does He lose His temper with us? No! When we wander away from the path of righteousness and refuse to accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour, God desires to be in relationship with us. He continues to love us. When we return to Him, and ask for forgiveness and change our ways, He instantly removes our sins, in fact He covers them up. It is as if they never existed. Then He welcomes us back and blesses us with His gifts of the spirit and lavishes His love on us.
How do we encourage our children and grandchildren to choose self-discipline. By applying it to our own lives. Admitting when we are wrong and making amends, even to children. Being slow to anger, loving, caring and truthful. Displaying patience, kindness and compassion. Listening to them and playing with them.
How we behave speaks volumes to all those around us. It teaches and instructs more powerfully than eloquent speech or persuasive arguments. Let’s choose to disciple our children and grandchildren. The fruits of our labour will continue long after we have passed away.
If you are struggling with managing your emotions when parenting, take heart. It’s not an easy job. The pay and conditions are poor. It’s 24/7 with no holidays or breaks. But help is available. Pray to God for help and guidance. Don’t try to hide it. Ask for help from a family member, a friend, or your pastor. In Australia, you can call Parent Line on 1300 301 300.
If you notice someone is having difficulties with parenting, consider respectfully offering to help them. I’m sure they would be grateful, even if it is only for a shoulder to cry on. There is a popular saying, “It takes a village to raise a child”. As grandparents, we are uniquely positioned to help our children raise the next generation.
Thankyou for reading my blog. I hope you enjoyed it. Please feel free to share it with anyone you think it might bless. If you would like to leave a comment or subscribe, please complete the section below. I would love to hear from you. God bless you and your family.
References:
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Embracing Submission: Finding Strength in Relationships
If you’d prefer to listen to this blog, please click on the link below and listen for free on Podbean. Alternatively, you can listen to The Jesus 4 Generations Podcast on your favourite streaming platform, e.g. Spotify, Apple Podcasts, etc.
https://ozsazzles.podbean.com/e/embracing-submission-finding-strength-in-relationships/
Being submissive in our culture is seen as a sign of weakness. Being less than and admitting we are inferior.
This is a topic I have really struggled with. I was born in the 1960s when women’s rights and the “fight for equality” was in full swing, and then continually championed throughout my lifetime. Not to mention my personal experiences of being powerless, vulnerable and abused in the workplace and in some of my relationships.
I always wanted to be fiercely independent, especially where my opinions were concerned. I wouldn’t give up my “freedom” to speak my mind or do what I wanted for anyone. This was the status quo until recently, when I was at a Christian school intensive weekend. We were spending time with the Holy Spirit and asking Him what He wanted to let us know.
I was shocked when Holy Spirit told me I must submit to my husband and acknowledge my husband’s authority in the house. Immediately, I was convicted of this truth. It’s interesting that when God convicts you it is with love and you receive a sense of hope that it is possible and better to change. Whereas when Satan condemns you, it leaves you feeling ashamed, wretched and full of despair. That’s an easy way to discern whose voice you are hearing from.
I slumped back in my chair. When asked to share I announced to all that this is the opposite of my norm. I publicly apologised to my husband and acknowledged his leadership and authority over our household including me.
Within 48 hours, I found myself questioning – “Did Holy Spirit really say ….” I realised this is a line of questioning Satan used with Adam and Eve
“Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?”
Genesis 3:1 (NIV)And when he questioned Jesus in the wilderness
“If you are the son of God…”
Matthew 4:6 (NIV)Then, this morning a good friend of mine sent me a reel by Kristi McLelland:
Kristi McLelland on Instagram
Kristi’s reel was sent at exactly the right time for me to hear. In Genesis when God speaks about creating a help mate for Adam he uses the Hebrew words Ezer Kenegdo. She explains that this word is powerful and means to aid, help and strengthen someone in ways they cannot do for themselves. Additionally, God uses this word many times in the bible to describe himself and His relationship with Israel. We do not see God as less than Israel. Kristi gave me a lightbulb moment that I needed to have – I do not need to see myself or value myself as inferior to my husband. I am valuable. I am loved. I am part of God’s plan.
So what does the bible say about wives yielding to their husbands:
Wives, be submissive to your own husbands as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, just as Christ is the head and Savior of the church, which is His body. But as the church submits to Christ, so also let the wives be to their own husbands in everything.
Ephesians 4:22-24 (MEV)Now, before you become concerned about your freedom and rights, I implore you, do not fear. Our loving God has an even higher expectation of husbands:
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for it, that He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, and that He might present to Himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing, but that it should be holy and without blemish. In this way men ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord cares for the church. For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones.
Ephesians 5:25-30 (MEV)It is obvious God wants our husbands to carefully look after us and love us and make sacrifices for us as Jesus loves us. Pretty amazing really!
Surprisingly, submitting to my husband has been an incredible relief. I did not realise the burden of responsibility I had been carrying. Strangely enough, the world did not go to pieces when I chose to do this. My husband Peter has not become domineering nor controlling. He asks for and welcomes my opinion. We discuss things as we always have. He now has his rightful place as my number one priority in my human relationships. I find I discuss things with him first, prior to anyone else. I think he appreciates this.
I’ve realised my attitudes, behaviours and beliefs around the fear of being vulnerable and the desire to dominate as a way of avoiding this had crippled my relationship with my husband. Instead of strengthening him I had been draining him. Godly men deserve their proper place, as do Godly women. Our place as wives is crucial to healthy marriages, families and communities. We have a powerful position when we realise the parallel with God and His relationship with Israel.
Wives, I believe when we surrender the need to control our husbands, we release them to become all they were meant to be. My husband is a good, kindhearted man. I can see him growing daily more fully into the man God made him to be. I am no longer holding him back. I am cheering him on and encouraging him forward.
If your relationship is struggling. If you don’t know where to begin. Invite Jesus in. Ask Holy Spirit for guidance. Speak to your husband or wife. Let them know you would like to work on your relationship. Let them know you want things to be better. Speak to friends who have good relationships and ask for advice. Speak to your Pastor. Get help and guidance to mend what seems to be broken.
I want you to know that if you are in a domestic violence situation this message is not for you. Seek help immediately. In Australia you can call 1800 RESPECT. Speak to a friend, a family member, a colleague, your Pastor or a DV service. Don’t remain silent.
If you enjoyed this blog, I’d love to hear from you. If you would like to comment or subscribe, please fill out the section below. God bless you and your family.
Acknowledgement: I would like to thank my friend Milly who kindly let me use one of her lovely photos for this blog. If anyone would like great photos, please go to fotosbymilly.com and check out her fabulous work.
- References:
- https://www.biblegateway.com/
- https://www.fotosbymilly.com/
- Kristi McLelland (20) Facebook
- YouTube
- Hillsong Worship
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Cultivating Joy: 5 Biblical Ways to Develop Lasting Joy and Happiness
https://unsplash.com/@benwhitephotography If you would prefer to listen to this blog rather than read, please copy and paste the link below into your browser and listen for free on Podbean. Alternatively, you can listen to The Jesus 4 Generations Podcast on your favourite platform, e.g. Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
When I look at my grandchildren they are so full of joy.
Joy is an interesting emotion. A lot of people confuse it with happiness. Happiness is fleeting and is caused by particular circumstances or events. Joy endures regardless of trials and tribulations.
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
James 1:2-4 (ESV)When you think about it joy is in the top two fruits of the spirit, second only to love. So it’s pretty important
Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.I’ve noticed I am a pretty serious person with a bit of a Martha attitude. I’m always thinking about what needs to be done and of course doing it. I seem to find it hard to relax. I’d really like to chill a bit and cultivate an attitude of joy and grow that fruit 🍇 in my life. Perhaps, you need to consider this too.
So how might we go about developing joy in our lives?
We notice the blessings in our lives. We may start by identifying three things we are grateful for every day. Then we express our gratitude to God and the people who bless us. Remembering to bring our awareness to new ones daily and not just go over the old gratitude list.
We make time to praise and worship God. This might be through song or it can be spoken words. Sometimes it’s silence and coming into His presence.
1 Peter 1:6-7 (NIV)
In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.We read our bible and recall all the blessings God has bestowed on His people. We acknowledge these promises are for us too.
We share our testimony with others, letting them know how God has blessed us. This births hope and joy in ourselves and the people we are sharing with.
Let this hope burst forth within you, releasing a continual joy. Don’t give up in a time of trouble, but commune with God at all times.
Romans 12:12 (TPT)I hope you enjoyed this post. If you would like to leave a comment, or subscribe so you don’t miss any future posts, please fill out the section below. Alternatively, if you would like to message me privately, please email me at admin@jesus4generations.com. I’d love to hear from you. God bless you and your family.
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Drifting in Prosperity, Returning in Grace
https://www.freebibleimages.org/photos/shepherds-sheep/ If you’d prefer to listen to this blog, click on the link below and listen for free on Podbean, or cut and paste it into your browser. Alternatively, you can listen to The Jesus 4 Generations Podcast on your favourite streaming platform, e.g. Spotify, Apple Podcasts, etc.
https://ozsazzles.podbean.com/e/drifting-in-prosperity-returning-in-grace/
Often, as Christians we think the times of trial are the worst thing we will experience. However, seasons of abundance and celebration may be the very times danger is lurking. They may lull us into a false sense of security in the natural things of this world – our income, our status, our possessions, our intelligence our relationships, our environment. No matter how good these things make us feel they are temporary and not a guarantee of the future. In times of plenty we may stop praying and spending time with the Lord because we have no immediate needs. We may end up wandering away from God.
If we look at Israel’s example, it was often during their prosperous times they forgot the Living God who saved them and worshipped other idols.
There’s a long history of people who burned for God and made a spiritual impact on this world, before, unfortunately, falling away. Solomon is a case in point. The Lord appeared to him twice. Solomon was blessed with wisdom and wealth and he was famous and other kings and queens marvelled at him. He was wise and did so much good in his early years. However, in his later years his wives turned his heart after other gods.
Not that long ago, I too withdrew from God for a long season. I allowed myself to be offended by members of my congregation. I refused to go to church and influenced my husband to do the same. I felt so hurt that I began to believe lies and distortions of the truth about Christians and even about my own identity.
I knew God was there, but I stubbornly refused to turn my face toward Him. One thing I did do though, was pray for my children every night.
Within a short time I was tinkering with New Age and Buddhism – looking for comfort, power and strength in inanimate objects and relying on myself. Pretty useless really.
Five years later I was in a whirlwind of trouble. Although we now had a better income, bigger house, fancier car, raised status and “higher” lifestyle – things the world tells us will make us happy, I was anything but happy. We were in a lot of debt and argued all the time, blaming one another. I became a workaholic believing I was what I produced and owned. I didn’t trust anyone and started to believe I was a lesbian. My marriage was in tatters, and we separated, sold everything and paid off our debts. It is surprising how quickly a person can descend from grace.
Fortunately for me, my beloved husband Peter never gave up on me. Within two years we started repairing our relationship. I asked Peter for forgiveness, and he humbly gave it. We spoke honestly and transparently with one another. Which was probably a first, because both of us had held back in the past, never revealing our vulnerabilities nor risking true intimacy. We promised one another that we could talk about anything – no more secrets. We agreed that we could and probably would argue, but no matter how annoyed we might become with one another, divorce was no longer an option. And we moved back in together.
Our merciful God never abandoned me either. In fact, I know He was always there, I had rejected Him, but he never left me. I know that I know that I know that this verse is true:
What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray? And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.
Matthew 18:12-14 (ESV)The near death of my grandson several years later was what pointed me back to the Lord with a vengeance. God does not cause bad things to happen. However, He used everything, even the difficult times to bring me back to Him.
And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. …… But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry.
Luke 15: 20, 22-24 (NKJV)When I returned to the Lord, He welcomed me back like the prodigal son. He holds me close to His heart and I cling to Him. I never want to return to the void again. My faith in God is greater now than it has ever been. He’s returning the lost years that were stolen and the latter years are sweeter than the former years. My husband and I are closer and more in love than we ever were.
“So I will restore to you the years that the swarming [d]locust has eaten,
The crawling locust,
The consuming locust,
And the chewing locust,
My great army which I sent among you.
26 You shall eat in plenty and be satisfied,
And praise the name of the Lord your God,
Who has dealt wondrously with you;
And My people shall never be put to shame.Joel 2:25-26 (NKJV)
If you have wandered away from God, know that He loves you and wants you to turn to Him. It is easier than you think. Ask forgiveness and invite Him back. Like the prodigal son’s father, He will run to you. He will meet you more than half-way.
If you have welcomed Him back, Congratulations! I encourage you to read the Word of God, particularly the gospels where Jesus demonstrates the will and nature of the Father. Take time daily to praise, worship and pray to God, to draw closer to Him. Then join a church community to encourage, teach and bless you in your walk with the Lord.
I hope you enjoyed this blog, please share it with your family and friends.. I’d love to hear if you’ve returned to God. If you’d like to comment or subscribe, so you don’t miss any posts, please fill out the section below. God bless you and your family.
References:
https://www.freebibleimages.org/
https://www.openbible.info/topics/
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/
https://youtu.be/6xx0d3R2LoU?si=wCTZc8vXXZeXQ8a7
Christian testimony, Faith in Hard Times & Abundance, Grace & Forgiveness, Marriage & Family Restoration, Overcoming Idolatry & Distractions, Returning to God, spiritual growthChristian encouragment, Christian testimony, dangers of success, drifting from God, faith and prosperity, finding true fulfilment in Christ, God restores the years, God’s grace and forgiveness, healing in marriage, hope in Christ, overcoming idols, prodigal son story, reckless love of God, Returning to God, spiritual restoration -
How to Keep Going When Life Gets Hard – Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus
Photo by Morgan David de Lossy on Unsplash
Photo by Mark McGregor on Unsplash
If you’d prefer to listen to this as a podcast, please click on the link below and listen for free on Podbean. Alternatively you can listen to The Jesus 4 Generations Podcast on your favourite streaming platform, e.g. Spotify, Apple Podcasts, etc.
https://ozsazzles.podbean.com/e/how-to-keep-going-when-life-gets-hard-fixing-our-eyes-on-jesus/
People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.
Mark 10:13-16 (NIV)
Children can teach us so much. They are extremely open and honest and overflow with hope, joy and determination. They expect good things to happen. When they fall over there may be a few tears, but they quickly get up and try again. They don’t give up.
Many years ago, when we were on holiday, my 6-year-old son and his cousin could swim in the pool. However, my 4-year-old daughter did not know how. The boys teased her of course, swimming to the deep end and calling out in a sing-songy voice “You can’t come here ’cause you can’t swi-im”. Well, the answer was a furious “I can too swim! And I will swim over there!” Followed by poking her tongue out for good measure. Within a couple of days, she was swimming and proved them wrong. In fact, in time she became a stronger swimmer than her older brother.
My daughter demonstrated determination, perseverance and a strong faith in her ability to swim just like the boys could. It was fascinating to witness. She struggled time and time again, arms flailing and body sinking. She swallowed a lot of water and her Pa and I had to save her a few times. However, after coughing, spluttering and the occasional vomit, she would look up at me, smile, wrinkle her nose and say “I’m swimming good aren’t I mummy?” I would agree with her, letting her know I could see she was improving. She was full of joy while she was struggling and learning to swim. My daughter was so pleased with herself and shone with happiness and pride.
My daughter’s example can teach us a very valuable lesson about perseverance.
Perseverance is continuing in a course of action without regard to discouragement, opposition or previous failure.
wikidiff.comRegardless of the context, whether suffering or experiencing gladness, hold onto the faith that God is good and He is with us in everything. With every trial, worship the Lord. With every blessing give glory to God. You can use both times of struggle and rejoicing to raise your faith and deepen your relationship with Him.
Blessed [happy, spiritually prosperous, favoured by God] is the man who is steadfast under trial and perseveres when tempted; for when he has passed the test and been approved, he will receive the [victor’s] crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love him.
James 1:12 (AMP)In the past I wandered away from God and I will never risk that again. I want to be like my daughter and persevere regardless of whether it feels like I am drowning. I want to be someone who runs the good race to the finish. Someone who doesn’t fall away at the end.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes upon Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith…
Hebrews 12:1-2(NIV)The cloud of witnesses are the saints and angels watching us. I believe that the people we know and come into contact with watch how we respond to good times and hard times. How we behave in these situations speaks volumes about the God we serve. It is a powerful statement of the goodness of God and glorifies Him. Our example may lead people to God or turn them away.
So how do we persevere? How do we continue in the face of struggles? We remember that the things of this world are temporary. We focus on Jesus, and the goodness of God. We get into His word (the bible). We remember His promises and His faithfulness from the past. We spend time with God, soaking in His presence. We pray and meditate on scripture. We worship God and thank Him for being with us through everything.
Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth.
Colossians 3:1-2 (NLT)Praise God in everything. Speak it out loud. Initially, we may only be able to muster a whisper. However, every time we declare His promises and describe his faithfulness, goodness and mercies, our conviction will grow, our voice will become stronger and louder. We may even find ourselves shouting. When we glorify and honour God in songs and words it changes our mindset and the atmosphere around us, because the Lord inhabits the praises of His people (Ps 22:3 [KJV]). And where the Light of the World shines, darkness flees.
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.
John 1:5I absolutely love the song Praise by Elevation Worship, and it is so true – “with everything praise the Lord.” Take the time to listen to it today. Hope it blesses you too.
I hope you enjoyed my blog. If you would like to comment or subscribe, please fill out the section below. I will do my best to respond to you. God bless you and your family.
References:
BibleGateway.com: A searchable online Bible in over 150 versions and 50 languages.
What Does the Bible Say About Light And Darkness? (openbible.info)
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The Impact of Friendship on Our Character
Photo by BBC Radio 4 – image of baby copying – Bing images
If you’d prefer to listen to this blog, please click on the link below or cut and paste it into your browser and you can listen to it on Podbean for free. Alternatively, you can listen to The Jesus 4 Generations Podcast on your favourite streaming platform, e.g. Spotify, Apple Podcasts, etc.
https://ozsazzles.podbean.com/e/the-impact-of-friendship-on-our-character/
Have you ever noticed that when you smile at a baby they smile back? It is a beautiful example of how babies imitate a person’s behaviour. As humans we tend to copy or mirror one another. There is a famous Spanish proverb that says “tell me who your friends are and I will tell you who you are”. Or sometimes I’ve heard it said “show me your friends and I will show you your future.”
The people we hang around with have a significant effect on our thoughts, values and actions. They help to create the culture in which we learn and grow. That is why it is imperative we surround ourselves with people of integrity and good character.
Become wise by walking with the wise; hang out with fools and watch your life fall to pieces.
Proverbs 13:20 (MSG)Are our friends people we want to mirror? People we hold in high esteem and want to be like? Or are we socialising with people who who treat us badly, steal our self-esteem and drag us down into thinking, talking and behaving in ways that lead to regret?
Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.”
1 Corinthians 15:33 (NIV)In particular, who is our best friend? Our best friend is Jesus. He is the epitome of a selfless friend. He never disappoints and always follows through on His promises. He helps us to become all we were created to be. He never puts us down. As a matter of fact, he advocates on our behalf to His dad and prepares a room for us in His father’s house. And His dad is a pretty big deal. He will adopt us into His family and care for us all the days of our lives. He can open doors for us that we never even knew existed and closes doors on our past that need to be shut. He created the heavens and the earth, and He knows and loves us.
My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. […] You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit – fruit that will last – and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. This is my command: Love each other.
John 15:12-14 & 16-17 (ESV)Another aspect we must consider is, are we ourselves a good friend? Are we someone who listens, supports, encourages and blesses the other. Are we helping our friends to reach their potential, or are we part of their downfall?
Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (ESV)Are we copying the attitudes and behaviours of those around us? Alternatively, are we positively influencing them with Godly actions, deeds and words? Do we honour our friends? Are we there for them when they are suffering, not just the good times? Do we speak the truth they need to hear, even when it’s difficult? Or do we hide our Christianity from them, robbing them of the opportunity to know Jesus? Do we humbly ask to pray for them? Do we respectfully introduce them to our Lord and Saviour? Are we ourselves virtuous people and are we displaying the good fruits of the spirit –
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.
Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT)Furthermore, are we modelling the character and attributes we would like to see in our children, grandchildren, friends, colleagues and our community? Or do we say one thing but do another? The bible tells us that actions speak far louder than words.
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says
James 1:22 (NIV)Bill Johnson asks are we thermometers – noticing the temperature (behaviour, attitudes, etc) of the room and reproducing that. Or are we thermostats – setting the temperature (culture, values and direction)?
If this conversation is challenging for you and the thought of leading rather than following brings fear, spend time reading your bible. Proverbs, psalms and the gospels are a good place to start. The bible is a manual for how to live your life. Worship and praise God. Linger with the Holy Spirit and ask Him to speak into your life, transform your mind and guide your steps. He will not disappoint.
I hope you were blessed by this blog. If you have any questions, comments, or would like to subscribe, please fill out the section below. God bless you and your family.
References:
BibleGateway.com: A searchable online Bible in over 150 versions and 50 languages.
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Finding Peace in Life’s Burdens
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https://ozsazzles.podbean.com/e/finding-peace-in-lifes-burdens/
It’s easy to find ourselves struggling to fulfil all our roles in life – spouse, parent, grandparent, child, grandchild, sibling, friend, our role at work, as well as the work we do at home – cook, cleaner, gardener, nurse, accountant, counsellor, diplomat and of course our ministry. Let alone when crises arise. At times we may feel like we’re drowning.
If we are trying to do everything in our own strength it will be difficult. We are likely to become run down and tired. When we are weary we may become frazzled and behave in ways we regret later on. At these times the pressure and stress may effect our judgement. We may start thinking “I can’t ….” “It’s too much …” “It’s not fair …” Or return to old habits and a negative mindset.
Kris Vallotton says that complaints are to the devil what praise and worship are to God. So, if God inhabits our praises, who do we invite into the room when we complain?
We have a merciful God. He sent His son Jesus to walk on this earth, fully man. Jesus understands the difficulties in our lives, as he has experienced all it is to be human. He urges us to give our burdens to Him.
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28 (NKJV)A few years ago I was in a challenging season. It felt like pressure was pushing in on me from all sides, work, home, finances and relationships. I was attempting to control all the variables by my own strength and nothing was working. I felt beaten.
Just when I got to the end of myself, I called out to God and admitted I can’t do this. I told God I was handing all these burdens to Him. Now in the past I have called on God for help and given my concerns to him. However, I had never really let go of them. A time would always come when I would gather all my troubles back close to my heart and worry over them again. It is crucial to remember that whatever we focus on is our treasure – the most important thing in our lives.
For where your treasure is, there your heart [your wishes, your desires; that on which your life centers] will be also.
Matthew 6:21 (AMP)I was crying and talking to God, revealing all my concerns. I repented from never trusting Him enough in the past to fully let go. This time was different. I was done. I had no interest in taking anything back. I agreed to continue to put one foot in front of the other and do whatever I had to do in the natural. However, I would also listen and follow His direction. I resolved to finally abide in Him.
A sense of calm and peace soon filled me, quenching the anxiety and lies of the enemy. Life still happened, nevertheless, I was immovable in my faith that God had taken my burdens. I did not worry. There was an ease to my life, and nothing rattled me. Also, the circumstances that I was concerned about never eventuated.
We would do well to avoid the trap of struggling with our expectations and His divine solutions and timeframe. Reject any thought that causes doubt. Most importantly, never make the mistake of taking our troubles back into our own hands.
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.
Romans 5:1-2 (NIV)Bill Johnson puts it this way: there is an exchange – our burdens for the peace that surpasses all understanding. He goes on to say it is a pretty great bargain for us. It’s all in our favour. I like to say “no backsies” No matter what!
This peace is available to every believer who surrenders themselves to God. If you have never accepted Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, and maybe you aren’t sure how, it is a surprisingly simple, yet profound act.
If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.
Romans 10:9-10 (NIV)Congratulations! You have just begun an incredible journey with our loving God. I recommend you get a bible and read it, as well as join a church to fellowship in. Remember, we have a good God and He will never forsake you. You will never have to go through anything alone again.
I hope you enjoyed this blog. If you gave your life to Jesus I would love to hear from you. If you have any questions or comments, or would like to subscribe, please fill out the section below. God bless you and your family.
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Out of the mouths of babes
3 of our 6 grandchildren with Poppy If you’d prefer to listen to this blog, please copy the link below into your browser and listen for free on Podbean. Alternatively, you can listen to The Jesus 4 Generations Podcast on your favorite streaming platform, e.g. Spotify, Apple Podcasts, etc.
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Young children have such a unique way of seeing things and it’s so delightful. They are honest and transparent. They haven’t learned to hide what they are thinking.
Recently, my grandchildren suffered the loss of their old dog. This has evoked strong curiosity and a veritable onslaught of questions and statements about God and heaven.
Our grandson starts with saying “I miss Benny” and follows up with either a statement or a question. This past Wednesday he said “You know Nanny, when you are in heaven you have to stay in the white bits, not the blue bits”. This peaked my curiosity, because I could not understand what he meant. On questioning he pointed to the sky and said “If you go in the blue bits you will fall through” – meaning if you venture out of the clouds into the blue sky, you will plummet to earth. Well, wasn’t that just precious! I said “Is that so?” Apparently, he learned this important fact from a cartoon.
Another comment I am hearing over and over is “God lives in me Nanny”, followed by a glorious smile. I always respond with “Yes, he does.” This warms my heart and gives me such unimaginable joy.
It is a great blessing to be a grandparent and it is also a great responsibility. The Bible states clearly that we are to take our obligation seriously:
Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.
Deuteronomy 4:9 [NIV]Often, we are unaware of the great influence we have over our children and grandchildren’s lives. It is wise to consider the foundations we are laying for this generation, and the next. As well as how that will affect the thousand generations that follow.
Therefore know that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments;
Deuteronomy 7:9 [NKJV]I love this quote, but, perhaps add grandparented to this:
One hundred years from now, it won’t matter what kind of car I drove, what kind of house I lived in, how much money I had in the bank, nor what my clothes looked like,
Forest Witcraft
BUT,
The world may be a little better because, I was important in the life of a child.We have the privilege and honour of leading our children and grandchildren to Jesus and I believe this is our sacred duty. Sylvia Schroeder writes that the geneologies in the bible attest to the faithfulness of parents and grandparents sharing the testimony of Jesus with their family and friends. I love the beautiful picture painted by the following verse about a grandmother’s strong faith being passed down through the generations:
That precious memory triggers another: your honest faith—and what a rich faith it is, handed down from your grandmother Lois to your mother Eunice, and now to you! And the special gift of ministry you received when I laid hands on you and prayed—keep that ablaze! God doesn’t want us to be shy with his gifts, but bold and loving and sensible.
2 Timothy 1:5 (MSG)But how do we do this? Firstly, we need to demonstrate the love, joy, goodness, truth, peace and mercy of God in all our interactions with them and the world. When we are living a good Christian life with Jesus at the centre, our words and even more so our actions, carry a spirit of authenticity and truth.
We need to spend time with our children and grandchildren. We need to know them and help them through any troubles they are encountering. We listen, we play, we read to them. We take them to parks and play games with them. We are fun. We answer their questions. We introduce them to Jesus. We look for the treasures Father God placed inside of them and we declare this over them. We tell them that God loves them, and we do too. It is not a burden; it is a joy.
Some of us may not have children or grandchildren, however this needn’t stop us blessing the next generation. Our lovely Pastor, Crystal Midson spoke about this during our Mother’s Day service a couple of years ago. Recognising we have many families in our church without grandparents, or without them nearby, she suggested that mature women and men in our church consider becoming involved in those families as grandparent figures. This arrangement would benefit both the family and the mature adult.
Another idea is to become involved in children’s, youth, women’s and men’s ministries to bless the next generation. Really the possibilities are endless.
When I consider Moses did not commence his ministry until he was 80 years old it gives me great hope. You are never too old to co-labour with Jesus and benefit those around you.
What spiritual inheritance are we going to leave our families? What will our legacy be to our community and 1000 generations?
I hope this blog blesses you. If you would like to comment or subscribe, please complete the section below. God bless you and your family.
- References:
- Sylvia Schroeder, Bible Study Tools, What Does the Bible Say about Grandparents and How They Are Blessings? – Topical Studies (biblestudytools.com)
- Bible Gateway, https://www.biblegateway.com
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Embracing God’s Goodness in Daily Life
Photo by Lee Pigott on Unsplash Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.
Psalm 107:1 (NIV)It never ceases to amaze me how good our God is. Our Father is perfect. He is goodness itself. He is so outrageously good, that we cannot over-exaggerate His virtues. As humans, we find it impossible to imagine the depths of His goodness. No evil can exist in His presence. Therefore, there is nothing less than good in Him. And He never changes.
This verse in James is so beautiful:
Every gift God freely gives us is good and perfect, streaming down from the Father of lights, who shines from the heavens with no hidden shadow or darkness and is never subject to change.
James 1:17 (NLT)When I take the time to meditate on the goodness of God. His solid, unchanging faithfulness, peace and joy fill my heart.
You are good, and what you do is good; teach me your decrees.
Psalm 119:68 (NIV)We are God’s representatives on this earth. Our greatest desire is for our children, their husbands and wife and our grandchildren to know and love Jesus. If the people around us don’t see the goodness of God flowing out of us, when will they ever arouse the desire to know Him?
Astonishingly, the bible tells us we can change and become more Christ like. Jesus only did what he saw the Father do. If we read the gospels we will see the love, compassion, truth, mercy, service and sacrifice with which Jesus lived.
Knowing how Jesus lived is an excellent model of how we also can live. However, this is head knowledge. Limited to theory. Many people know a lot about the bible and Jesus and yet fail to put any of this information into action. Transferring the insights gained from the bible into a faith filled, loving, merciful life where we serve others is something else entirely.
Spending time with our Lord and saviour in our quiet place is invaluable. This is where we bask in His presence and learn to know His voice. In this place we gain discernment to recognise what is from Him, sounds like Him, and agrees with His word.
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:2 (NIV)My husband Peter and I pray for this transformation of our minds daily. It goes something like this:
Today God, continue to transform our minds and make them more Christ like. We are your sheep and know your voice. Today, make us so sensitive to the urgings and nudgings of the Holy Spirit, that we will be aware of when a thought comes from you, our own selfish desires, or the evil one. We will toss out anything that is not of you, holding every thought captive unto you, and obediently follow your direction, in Jesus name.
Over time, God has been doing a mighty work in us. He has changed the way we think, which affects the way we act. We walk to the beat of a different drum. The heart of the Father. We constantly look at how we can be a blessing to those around us – family, friends, neighbours and strangers.
Before our day starts we will pray to the Lord and ask Him how we can co-labour with him. While we are out shopping, we look for opportunities to bless people with care and kindness. Noticing the person cleaning the food mall and thanking them for their work and how it makes the area pleasant to eat in. We may ask permission to pray for someone if we feel called to, or they relay a need. While travelling to work we pray over our workplaces that whoever may enter that day would feel the presence of God and that we would be a light in the darkness.
We have gone from insecurity in sharing Jesus with the world, to Godly confidence and anticipation to see how He is moving that day. The first time we prayed for a stranger we were nervous. However, God is good. He does all the work. We just have to be willing to step out of our comfort zone and initiate the conversation. We experience great joy when we work with Jesus. We do not force ourselves upon others, or shout from street corners. Being someone who turns people from God is definitely not our aim. We pray that Jesus will highlight someone to us and specifically follow His lead. We don’t embarrass people or interrupt businesses.
A major part of learning how to step out in faith in a respectful and courteous way, has been learned through the teachings we have received while attending School of Faith (School of Faith). They are a supernatural school of ministry based on the teachings of Bethel Supernatural School of Ministry in Redding, California.
We have learned that if we want to get closer to God, we need to spend time with Him. We need to be intentional each day to take the time to grow in faith.
Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is [indeed] plentiful, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest.”
Matthew 9:37-38 (AMP)We need to practice our faith, not just read about it. The world is hungry for Jesus. How are they going to meet Him if we are unwilling to share?
I hope you enjoyed this blog. I’d appreciate any comments you might have. You could share how Jesus has changed your life, as He has mine. Just fill out the section below. I will make sure to reply. You can also subscribe below. God bless you and your family.
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Understanding Godly Peace: Beyond Worldly Views
Photo by Brian McGowan on Unsplash
If you’d prefer to listen to this blog please click on the link below and listen for free on Podbean. Alternatively, you can listen to The Jesus 4 Generations Podcast on your favourite streaming platform, e.g. Spotify, Apple Podcasts, etc
https://ozsazzles.podbean.com/e/understanding-godly-peace-beyond-worldly-views/
Peace. What is it really? In the world, peace is seen as the absence of conflict, a state of harmony and tranquility. Some people see peace as a time in the future, when they retire and no longer have to work. Alternatively, some see peace as everyone agreeing with them.
This would mean that peace in the world relies on others and other countries behaving in a certain way. Or the absence of both responsibility and differing opinions.
However, what is Godly peace? The Hebrew word translated into English as peace in the Old Testament is shalom which means:
- To be complete or to be sound.
- To be whole or to live well.
- Right relationship and harmony between two parties or people.
- Prosperity, success or fulfillment.
- Victory over one’s enemies or absence of war.1
In the New Testament the Hebrew word eirene is translated into peace:
- A state of national tranquility
- Peace between individuals
- Security, safety, prosperity, felicity, etc.2
These all sound good and most people would desire them in their lives and their countries. However, our world is imperfect, and life is not always serene. What does Jesus say?
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27 (NIV)3The way Jesus speaks here about peace is the same as what Moses said before he passed away. This also mirrors what God said to Joshua prior to taking the promised land.4 This peace we’ve been gifted includes strength and courage.
In the bible it says that God is peace.
So Gideon built an altar to the Lord there and called it The Lord Is Peace. It is still in Ophrah of the Abiezrites today.
Judges 6:24 (CSB)5God’s peace doesn’t mean our life will be without troubles. It means we will be able to cling to Him, knowing that He is with us and will help us through. He is with us in the storm. When life is chaotic, like a cyclone or hurricane whirling around, imagine being in the eye of the storm with God. Quiet, calm and safe at the centre where nothing can touch us. We are complete with Him and need not worry. We can remain focused on Jesus, regardless of what is happening in the natural.
When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour the Holy Spirit comes and resides in us. As we obey God and follow Jesus, we become more like Him. The fruit of the spirit is the evidence in our lives that we have a relationship with God and the Holy Spirit is dwelling in us. So how do we cultivate this fruit called peace? We build our relationship with God by spending time with Him. We read and meditate on His word. We praise and worship Him. We obey Him. We serve Him and others. We fellowship.
Thankyou for reading my blog. Please share it with anyone it will benefit. If you would like to leave a comment or subscribe, please fill out the section below. God bless you and your family.
Jesus 4 Generations
Revealing our loving God to generations
Jesus 4 Generations 
