We didn’t always do what was best for our kids. Pt.1

…That isn’t to say that we didn’t want to, but sometimes we just couldn’t. A good example of this is when our kids were age 1, 2, 6 and 7 we moved to Liberia. They were uprooted from their friends and their grandparents, we lived in third-world country and a war-torn city with very little security and we drank un-sanitized water, just to name a few hazards. If all our decisions were made by “doing what was best for our children” we would have never gone. But we made this decision based on obedience to the voice of God.

He told us to move there, and then He told us to move home 9 months later. It was a challenging time, but as it turns out, it was the gift that keeps on giving. We learned so much about obeying God and trusting Him and we have been able to pass that on to our children. We have all been broadened, deepened and grown immeasurably from this one experience of walking by faith as a family.

So, the big worry might be that if I’m not looking out for my kids first, who is going to? God will! Think about it this way, there is peace and security in the family when God is in control and the parents and children line up and follow God together; and it doesn’t end there! God is an attentive God. He watches us closely to see our response of faith and obedience to Him and He strategizes to bless our children.

Here is a little discussion you can have with your kids while you talk about following God. This is a great verse to memorize as a family. It will help your kids remember how you make decisions at your house as you get everyone lined up and follow God together!

Proverbs 20:7

 The righteous man walks in his integrity;
His children are blessed after him.

1. Who is this righteous man? Those whom God has justified because of their faith (Genesis 15:6)
2. What does it mean to walk in integrity? To follow God in conduct and character.
3. Who is the blessing secured for? His children
4. What are the children doing in this verse? Following the righteous man.