June 17, 2010
I have suggested in recent broadcasts that summertime is a great time to continue praying for your children: prayers for their spiritual growth and stability in challenging times, for their protection when faced with temptation, as well as prayers for doors of opportunity to open for ministry and witness.
We can also be praying that our young ones will continue in their love for God’s Word and their desire to worship with God’s people. Summer is a time when the essential spiritual disciplines may lose their position of priority. With so many competing activities, things that are critical for your child’s walk with Jesus Christ may inadvertently take a back seat. Children may even observe the behavior of the adult Christians in their life, and come to the conclusion that God must go on vacation, as well, starting June first!
During your child’s break from school academics, he or she may need even greater encouragement to have daily exposure to God’s Word: reading it, discussing it, and memorizing it. The Spirit of God is able to put a hunger for the Scriptures into your child’s heart. Be praying for that desire to be greater than the temptation to sleep until noon or head out with friends. Along with your intercession on this matter, I urge you to set aside space in the daily schedule for a family “quiet time,” where both parents and children take time to walk with Jesus Christ through the Scriptures. Television, video games and playing with friends may demand your child’s attention, but your prayerful encouragement can keep the life-giving Word of God from losing its place of priority. Get your children their own Bible in a format that is appropriate for their age. Pray for the illumination of the Spirit before the reading time starts, and do not be afraid to ask, “So, what did the Lord teach you today?”
I share the same concern about summertime worship. When nice weather has finally arrived, it is so tempting to head out to the lake or crank up the lawnmower when the time for Sunday morning worship comes. However, if you have been praying for your children to have a desire to be in worship and Sunday School with God’s people, and if you demonstrate that being a part of God’s family is a priority to you, then your children will be reminded that their walk with Jesus Christ is more important than any other plans. You will know that your prayers have been answered when your young ones arise on a beautiful Sunday morning and ask, “So, mom and dad, what are we doing together after we come home from church?” Satan would love to have your children consider worship as just one of many Sunday options. Your intercession may be the key for them to see the truth.
Our program today was sponsored by our friends at the Buena Vista Ski area outside Bemidji, with a reminder that their beautiful lodge is available for summer weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and meetings. Call them at 218-766-9919 to make a reservation.