Thinking out loud-what I pray for my children

As a mom it is only natural to think and pray for my children.  I have recently been thinking and pondering on all the areas of prayer that I would want my children to be shielded with everyday. The following are what I have come up so far and would love to hear from others who have reached down into their hearts for words of prayers that would send protection over our children.

That they will have the desire to receive the Lord and come to know the Him personally. -(John 1:12-13)

That they desire righteousness and shun evil. (Psalm 98:10 and Amos 5:15)

That they will humble themselves before the Lord.  (1 Peter 5:5-6)

That they will always be honest and seek after truth. (Proverbs 12:22)

That their hearts will be soft in order to hear and obey the Lord in all things. (1 Samuel  3:10)

That they will stand mind, body, and spirit spotless, pure, and blameless before the Lord.  (1 Thessalonians 5:23)

That the children who are not married yet that the Lord will prepare for them a godly spouse who will commit to a godly marriage for all eternity.  (2nd Corinthians 6:14-18)

That they will love to read the scriptures everyday, meditate and pray on them that they may find direction and guidance through them.  (Psalm 119)

That no matter what happens in life they will always be strong and that their faith will never fail them.  (Luke 22-32)

That they will watch and keep their hearts always from evil.  (John 17:15-16)

That they will love prayer and commit to daily prayer.  (Psalm 55:17)

That they will stand strong in the face of temptation  and no matter what, never compromise their faith.  (1 Peter 5:8-9)

That they will always let their light shine to influence those around them for good.  (Matthew 5:16)

That they will have complete discernment to always know good from evil in all circumstances in life.  (Isaiah 59:14-15)

That they will seed the Lord with all their hearts.  (Psalm 27:8)

That they will always attend church and worship with God's people.  (Hebrews 10:25)

That they will hate evil, never give in to the desires of the flesh, nor the pride that can it's way into our hearts.  (1 John 2:15-17)

That they will be filled with the Holy Spirit at all times.  (Acts 2:16-18)

That they will keep themselves pure and clean for their future spouse.  Mind, body, and soul.  (Romans 6:12-13)

That they will desire children and created a godly home for them.  (Psalm 127 and 128)

And especially.....

That they will love the Lord with their heart, soul, mind, and strength and serve Him always.  (Mark 12:30)

And that the Lord will watch over each of them and protect them from danger, sickness, harm, accident, and from all the attacks from the adversary physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.  (Psalm 91)

Note to self: Just one day at a time

It is a blessed secret, this of living by the day.  Any one can carry his burden, however heavy, till nightfall.  Anyone can do his work, however hard, for one day.  Anyone can live sweetly, quietly, patiently, lovingly, and purely till the sun goes down.  And this is all that life really ever means to us - just one little day.  "Do today's duty, fight today's temptation, and do not weaken and distract yourself by looking forward to things you cannot see, and could not understand if you saw them.": God gives us nights to shut down the curtain of darkness on our little days.  We cannot see beyond, and we ought not to try to see beyond.  Short horizons make life easier, and give us one of the blessed secrets of brave, true holy living.

From Secrets of a Beautiful Life

Hope comes after opening Pandora's Box

"Hope is necessary in every condition. The miseries of poverty, sickness, of captivity, would, without this comfort, be insupportable." ~Samuel Johnson

From the story: The Paradise of Children (a story that captivated my mind and set me to thinking on what hope truly is and how it blesses our lives)

The naughty little Pandora had opened the box. "Now if you wish to know what these ugly things might be, which had made their escape out of the box, I must tell you that they were the whole family of earthly Troubles. There were evil passions; there were a great many species of Cares; there were more than a hundred and fifty Sorrows; there were Diseases, in a vast number of miserable and painful shapes; there were more kinds of Naughtiness than it would be o any use to talk about."

Amazingly, Pandora had closed the lid so quickly that she had left one more 'person' in the box. Undecided as to whether or not to open it again after all her previous 'troubles' to let it out she was convinced to do so because of the sweetness of the voice she heard in the box.

"Pray, who are you, beautiful creature?" inquired Pandora. "I am to be called HOPE!" answered the sunshiny figure. "And because I am such a cheery little body, I was packed into the box, to make amends to the human race for that swarm of ugly Troubles, which was destined to be let loose among them. Never fear! We shall do pretty well in spite of them all."

HOPE!! One definition, and one that brings to mind the very essence of hope is....

Confidence in a future event; the highest degree of well founded expectation of good; as a hope founded on God's gracious promises; a spiritual sense. 1828 Webster's Dictionary

Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. Jeremiah 17:7

The Wonder Book by Nathaniel Hawthorne

The foundations for my kindergarteners (and beyond)

It's not spring time but in our home there is a new beginning. It's called a kindergartner! And, in keeping with my most of my previous 5-7 year olds my teaching begins with the basics. Reading and writing???? Well, not so fast. I first like to lay some important foundations that they will carry with them throughout their school years and throughout their lives. The following is a basic outline of how I like to introduce a young child to world of academic learning. Which pretty much sets the stage not just for their academic instruction but for living life as well.

These principles are weaved throughout their curriculum and also pointed out to them through their everyday living, and by the end of the year he or she can be trained to respect:

1. The authority of God and His Word, for all subjects and for all government-from self to civil.

2. The authority of parents and teacher as representatives of God and His Word.

3. The Christian individuality of each student as unique and valuable in God's plan of history. He can appreciate others' individuality and show concern for their needs.

4. The principle of Christian self-government. He can develop the capacity for self -government by:

A. using the scriptures as a standard for knowing right and wrong:

B. realizing that God is interested first and foremost in the internal attitudes of the heart. Outward expression is important, but secondary:

C. recognizing that each student is in control of his own eyes, mouth, hands, and body:

D. learning that home, school, church, and civil government can be governed by Biblical principles.

5. The principle of Christian character as illustrated by biographies from scripture, America's Christian history and literature and practiced through the student's daily work and play.

6. Individual property, including the property of conscience, by:

A. recognizing each individual as God's property, made "in His image." and accountable to his Creator-Maker:

B. Caring for his own property and allowing others to care for theirs:

C. Training his conscience in the Law of God and also respecting others' expression of their conscience in understanding Biblical standards and principles.

7. The rudiments of each subject by learning the first principles, or elements, and the rules which govern them.

8. The liberty to become self-teaching through mastering them first principles of the English language.

These guidelines are taken from my copy of A Guide to American Christian History for the Home and School by James B. Rose. I have them printed off and keep them handy for the times when the children need reminders and for the foundation of learning for my "new beginnings" child.

So what exactly is an American Christian Education? In short:

The book A Guide American Christian Education for the Home and School is based upon Biblical reasoning and governmental principles emphasized in first century Christianity, and expressed in America's first two hundred years. For example, some of the truths which govern the student, as well as the emphasis of the subjects, are the Biblical principles of individual worth, local self-government, character, personal property (especially the property of the conscience), and voluntary consent.

An American Christian education focuses on cultivating the individual, heart, mind, and character needed to maintain a Christian Republic. This provides opportunity for the teacher/parent to help the student to apply his knowledge to the government of himself, and then to extend it into his home, church, community and nation. This approach purposes to develop in students a mind and temper, redeemed by the Spirit of Christ. and the manners and habits required for the useful life of service to God, man and country. (American Christian Education for the Home and School).

It is better known as the Principal Approach method and works very well along side the ideas taught by Charlotte Mason. By googling it you will come up with many wonderful writings on and the importance it plays in education.

When I'm not at my best....

which is quite often, I refer to this poem I have written in my notebook (author unknown) and it really helps my perspective. (And my patience) I hope it helps you when you are down as much as it has me.

There are little feet that follow

In my footsteps every day

Their little voices echo

So much of what I say.

Sometimes I'm not too happy

With all the things I see

Then I begin to realize

That they're imitating me

My patience seems to falter

And I speak with too much haste -

Til I hear the Saviour speaking

When I look into each face.

Oh Lord, please grant me wisdom

As I train each little one,

Help me set a good example

As You yourself have done.

I would not ask for riches

Or that they famous be

But may each find Christ as Saviour

And live each day for Thee.

A quaint definition of what a home is

A reminder to self~~

There are little feet that follow, in my footsteps everyday,

Their little voices echo, so much of what I say.

Sometimes, I'm not too happy, with all the things I see.

Then I begin to realize, that they're imitating me.

My patience seems to falter, and I speak with too much haste -

'Til I hear the Saviour speaking, when I look into each face.

Oh God, please grant me wisdom as I train each little one,

Help me set a good example as You yourself have done.

I would not ask for riches, or that they famous be.

But may each find Christ as Saviour, and live each day for Thee. ~ Quiet Reflections for Mothers

A generational vision

Grandpa Vance & Elaine

May ever soul that touches mine---

Be it the slightest contact---Get there from some good,

Some little grace, some kindly thought,

One inspiration yet unfelt, one bit of courage

For the darkening sky, the gleam of faith

To brave the thickening ills of life,

One glimpse of brighter skies beyond the gathering mists

To make this life worth while and heaven a surer heritage.

This does not mean that we should be officious and obtrusive in pressing our help upon those we meet. There is a story of one whose prayer was that he might be permitted to do a great deal of good without even knowing it. That is the best helpfulness which flows out of the heart and life as light from a star, as fragrance from a flower. Love works most effectively when it works unconsciously, almost instinctively, inspired from within. Then it bestows its blessing or does its good obtrusively."

J. R. Miller

On this Father's Day I honor those around me whom I see blessing the lives of others as stated above. My own father who left this life several years ago quietly, gently, and unobtrusively blessed my life. (pictured on left) My son in law and my son are doing the same for their little families. But I think I haven't come to appreciate the fruits of their labors until recent years when maturity sets in my spirit and I can see with my eyes and hearts the blessings passed down from one

generation to another. My own husband is a piece of work from what I call a 'generational vision.' I am reaping the blessings of generations of Godly husbands and fathers. While I didn't know my husband's grandfathers I do know his father. (pictured right with his family) The words spoken above from J. R. Miller quite explains my thoughts when it comes to the influence my husband has been under all his life. I thank my father-in-law (and of course his lovely wife) for bringing up such a fine man as my husband. It is my prayer that this vision will continue to be passed down from generation to generation in the future. Happy Father's Day to the father's I love and to all fathers!

Daddy Vance, Vance Jr. and son-in-law Kelly

A parent's SOLE responsibilty

Who's running around Walmart these days? DISOBEDIENT CHILDREN & PASSIVE PARENTS! I really dislike Walmart but try as I might I always end up paying them a visit for one reason or another. Oh, I'm not implying that Walmart has anything to do with the following experience I am about to share with you. (I'm just saying I hate Walmart)

So here's this mom; a toddler in the front seat, a preschooler in the cart and two children tagging along behind. I'm thinking ages 7-10 give or take. Forgive me if this story is the norm but you have to remember that I live in a bubble, in the country, and not much of a 'get around town' kinda girl. (the kind that hits all the stores all the time)

Back to the little family. Mom says to one of the boys in tow. "Here is the shirt I picked out for your pictures." Son shoots back with, "I don't like that shirt and I'm not wearing it." Mom~"Well you are going to have to, it's one of the cheaper ones." Child, in a hot, irritated voice. "Mom, I don't think you're listening to me. I said I'm NOT wearing it. So just put it back on the rack right now. You never listen, never, now put it back."

Obviously embarrassed mother steps up her pace in the hopes of being able to 'close' down the conversation. However, son was not going to let that happen. In a voice well above talking he shouts, "Mom, slow down, what the he** do you think you're doing? I was talking to you now stop walking right now."

~~~~~~~~~~

I was saddened by this whole scene. The love and respect between parents and children is such a positive thing to have and I hope that all parents who struggle can overcome these obvious trials and bring back peace into their homes. But it has to begin with mom's and dad's and much prayer. (I need to add that I understand there are families who struggle with a son or daughter who is suffering from emotional imbalances & my heart goes out to you as you give everything you have to help these little ones. Even children without obvious problems can be a challenge to their parents. But what I am trying to express in this post is bottom line, that we can't leave it to 'chance' how our children are being raised. Effort is key, diligence, prayer, etc. It is these things when in lack that we find ourselves drowning. Where there is no vision the people perish! But I know if we seek the Lord, pray, hope, love, and keep being consistent then the blessings will come.)~this is my eye's being opened edit

"A parent's sole responsibility"

There are many parents today, in and out of church who seem to have lost all common sense when it comes to raising children and teaching them to obey. Training our children in obedience leads to many God given blessings. Blessings I'm sure as parents we all hope to see in our children. Obedience opens the door to our children's hearts and better enables our teachings to find a place in their lives. Our one, true, and noblest example of obedience is our Savior Jesus Christ.

My question is why? Why is it so easy to be passive in the training of our children? I've come up with some examples of what can cause us to be a bit laid back in this responsibility.

Parental inexperience, (obviously a new parent will have inexperience, that's where scripture comes in, especially Proverbs) feeling inadequate, perhaps a bit apprehensive to fully, 100% expect obedience from our little ones. Maybe we fear that they won't love us, respect us, or end up resenting us because of our expectations we have for them. But as their parents it is our Godly role to see to this facet of their lives. Consider Eli and his sons. Eli was chastised by God for honoring his sons before God. God held Eli responsible for the desecration of the tabernacle because his son's made themselves vile and he restrained them not. Did Eli ever have a handle on his sons? Did he ever teach them about authority? Were they ever expected to obey mother and father, thereby teaching them obedience to authority? I feel that in order to obey our Father in heaven, obedience must first be learned on earth, in our home, under the righteous authority of the parents. It is very easy to allow small acts of defiance to go unpunished while raising our children. But we must remember that those small acts of defiance, if allowed to continue unchecked will grow into bigger acts in later years.

"One who has never been in the habit of submitting to others, will always be headstrong and self-willed; and such a character nobody loves." Harvey Newcomb

It has been my experience that when a child falls into 'woes' I must ask myself if I have been diligent. Diligent in attending to their training. Do I watch over my children, keep bad habits in check, and nip the beginning of bad habits and behavior in the bud before they intensify. Diligence~

Steady application in business of any kind; constant effort to accomplish what is undertaken; exertion of body or mind without unnecessary delay or sloth; due attention; industry; assiduity.

Diligence is the philosophers stone that turns every thing to gold.

I think that this is one of the many reasons why I love homeschooling. It enables me to be diligent. Being with our children, physically, for as many hours of the day possible is key to keeping them in 'check.' When they are off, doing who knows what, learning who knows what lessons, pulling who knows what kind of tricks children are capable of. Are we sure, absolutely sure that whoever our children are in the care of; will they correct bad behavior, (if they chance to see it) teach kindness to a child who is being selfish, encourage patience when it's not their turn, praise them when they have shown an act of kindness thereby encouraging them? I love having the opportunity to take a troubled little one and open up the scriptures, read them a story or poem to illustrate that there is a preferred way for them to act. To rise above the normal childhood antics that befalls everyone of them. Moms and dads, it is our job to do this. Diligence is the key. Be ever watchful over your children and teach them in the way. 24/7

"And ye shall teach them your children, speaking of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. Deut. 11:19

Is your cup running empty?

He giveth more grace when the burdens grow greater;

He sendeth more strength when the labors increase.

To added affliction he addeth His mercy;

To multiply trials, His multiplied peace.

When we have exhausted our store of endurance,

When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,

When we reach the end of our hoarded resources,

Our Father's full giving is only begun.

His love has no limit; His grace has no measure.

His pow'r has no boundary known unto men.

For out of His infinite riches in Jesus,

He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again.! Annie Johnson Flint

Do you sometimes get weighed down with the many cares of the day? I know I do. Time keeps moving and children keep growing. I need to be at my best for my family and overwhelming myself with "things" takes from that and adds stress to my life. Stress gets in my way and then I'm not able to focus on the things that are most important. When those weighty moments come visiting I know for sure at least these two things are needful.

1. Obviously, I have bitten off more than I can chew and it is now time to cut back and simplify.

2. The most important, ponder and pray. Turn to the Lord and He will be my strength.

"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasures in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong."~ 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

Yes, we shelter our children

Yikes, you "shelter" your children? Here's a new word that keeps coming up around homeschoolers. It is mostly used by non-homeschoolers and you may even hear it at your church from your Christian friends and leaders. That word is often spoken in whispers regarding 'the family' who has chosen to shelter their children.

 I admit that we do. But before you begin to psycho analyze our decision let's consider the meaning of the word shelter.  (I firmly believe that however the Lord leads you in your family, then that is what's best for you. All families are different.  I feel it is extremely important to search the Lord's will through faith and prayer when it comes to decisions being made for your family.)

Shelter~That which covers or defends from injury or annoyance. The state of being covered and protected; protection; security. He that defends or guards from danger. To cover from violence, injury, annoyance or attack. To defend; to protect from danger; to secure or render safe; to harbor. There are many scripture passages that show what a loving, protective, sheltering, delivering, Father we have.

Psalm 18-2 The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer

2 Timothy 4:17-18 God strengthens us and rescues us.

2 Thessalonians 3:3 But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.

Psalm 56-9 When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back

Psalm 91:3-5 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler...he shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

Psalm 121:3-8 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is they keeper: the Lord is they shade upon they right hand. vs. 7-8 The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve they going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.

Joshua 1:5 There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

Isaiah 41:10 I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Psalm 1241 2-6 If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, when men rose up against us: then they had swallowed us up quick,, when their wrath was kindled against us....Blessed be the Lord, who hath not given us as a prey to their teeth.

If our family is guilty of sheltering, then so be it. Even the wonderful Christian 'sooth sayers' who love to counsel families in regards to the idea that our/your {homeschooled} children should be the 'salt and light' to the world, and, they should be exposed to the evils and the wrongs in the world in order to 'strengthen' them against it.  Those overwhelming feelings of love, the desire to protect, and care for you baby! That shouldn't end just because your child turns 5. They depend on us, their parents, to bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord all their days. They don't need to be exposed to evils, lies, and the false teachings that are corrupting our children each and every day to make them strong and stand against the storms of life. The word of God, His teachings is what they need to make them strong. Do we feed their bodies junk food to strengthen their bodies? No, that weakens them, just as the junk food fed their minds in our schools, by tv, etc do not strengthen them. We feed them whole foods, living foods; that is where their bodily strength comes from. So as filling them up in the word of God strengthens their souls.

So I say "shelter away." "I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble. Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life. Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evil men. Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way." Proverbs 4-11-15

I love those verses in Proverbs. Ask yourself~are YOU guiding your children in the way of wisdom? Are their teachers, the television, friends, and church leaders guiding them in the way of wisdom. To whom are we trusting the guiding to?

Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well. Whatever your child is being instructed in, that will he hold onto.

Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evil men. Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way."

"If you want to know what has de-Christianized the country, I point my finger to the provided school from which Christ has been turned out and the door slammed in His face. The thought of it makes me bury my face in my hands and sob with sorrow and shame.~Heber C. Iverson Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way.

Year end logistics, funnies, goals, & cautions!!

Things not to be repeated in 2011!

1. Making it all the way to church and getting seated before noticing my son had stapled the rip in his white church shirt instead of getting it sewn. And the rip was right up front near the collar for all to see!

2. Double check before leaving home that your young daughter has on her panties under her dress. Otherwise, when she decides to do some somersaulting while in public you will find she isn't completely modest.

3. When your son finds a rip in his dress pants, have him tell you so it can fixed. Otherwise he might just use duct tape to fix them and then wear them out in public at a formal event.

4. Don't let too many things get in the way of taking the time to inspect your children's dress before leaving for church. You may find you have a son who from the waist up looks very respectable, with his white shirt and tie, but below the waist is a black pair of baggy sweat pants and a pair of black, shiny dress shoes. (he thought they would work since they were black and he couldn't find his pants.) At least his shirt was tucked in.

5. At times we have 2 cars at church if someone has to stay later.  I will no longer assume a child will be coming in the 2nd car with daddy (even when I'm told they are) without first making sure.  Otherwise, it would be way too easy to leave one standing on the steps alone while I begin driving off without her!

Comments received this year worth sharing (and laughing over)

• "A woman asked me if I had ever heard of Family Planning." (planned parenthood I presume) My answer, "Oh certainly I've heard of it! We planned a family and now we're having it." (Is that being sassy?)
• "Is number 13 on the way yet?"
• "Are they all yours? Like one father, one mother kind of thing!" (seriously?)
• "You must homeschool." Why I ask, do you say that? "Because your son has a nice, short haircut and he is polite."
• Upon arriving at my husband's open house at work we were announced; "The Vance Smith family has arrived, hmm, aren't you missing a few people?" My son-in-law Kelly; eyeing our large group promptly answered, "Oh, you know you're right, where's the other 20?
• After visiting the doc for my boys' scouting physical I was told they were both fine and did I have any questions. Before I could speak, he said, "Oh wait, maybe I should be asking you the questions."
• "That's a lot of babies? Do your older ones have jobs to help? Does it get easier and easier to birth them the more you have?" (Of course it gets easier, I barely feel anything, the 'older' ones have the job of birthing the babies for me!)
• "I only have 2 kids and they drive me crazy." (Yeah, well, your kids would me crazy too!)
• "Mom, why do we always have to dress the same when we go out?" Two reasons... 1. So I don't lose you in the crowd, and 2. So I don't accidentally take home any kids that aren't mine!
• "Do you all eat at the same time, or do you eat in shifts?"

Logistics for the year, just for fun!

I think I heard the word mom about 10,000 times

I heard "I love you" almost as many times

Had over 100 dates with my husband

Had and or gave thousands of hugs

celebrated 20 birthdays

over 25 little handfuls of flower/weed bouquets

kissed over 100 boo boos-could be more! (let's not mention the number of band aids)

read aloud to my children over 300 hours

executed 100's of braids, pony tails, and up do's!

graded over hundred spelling/math tests between all the children

over 3000 miles of running was logged between daddy and the boys

mom logged over 300 hours of exercise

925 gallons milk-give or take

650 dozen eggs

1500 loads of laundry-give or take (probably take)

ran my dishwasher around 750 times

baked over 100 batches of bread

ground over 300 pounds wheat

popped over 300 large bowls of popcorn

served over 500 pounds of potatoes

consumed about 750 lbs of bananas. Banana smoothie addicts live at my house. Plus our family eats them all day long.

used about 750 rolls tissue paper, one roll a day per bathroom. (It's a girl thing)

at least 365 pounds of butter

peanut butter and jam:we won't even go there!

And the very best of the best New Year's goals...

"Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious." 1 Peter: 1-2

Living room, parlor, family room, dining room.....

Does your home have a favorite room where everyone likes to gather? Our favorite would be our living room. Cool weather (especially) finds nearly everybody in the house gathering to this simple room for activities such as:

Reading

Sewing, arts & crafts

Games

School lessons

Cuddling with daddy

Exercising

Hair cuts

Napping

Chatting with one another

Wrestling

Gymnastics

And everybody's favorite-eating meals

Where's your families favorite place in the home?

The girls made Christmas skirts, purses, and are busy knitting sweaters and gloves!

Homeland Security

When we think of Homeland Security exactly what comes to mind? 911? At least that is where it began. The role of the Department of Homeland Security was set in place to protect our nation from fanatical terrorist who seek to destroy us through acts of terrorism against US citizens.

Those two words, Homeland Security can have other meanings as well. Let's consider our very own HOMEland Security. The homes in which our little ones are growing up in. All one needs to do is look around to see that the family is under attack. I was reading that over 50% of Christian marriages end in divorce. As if that isn't sad enough, we need to think of our children and under what influences they are growing up under. There are TV programs, movies, questionable friends, music, magazines, drugs, alcohol, and a myriad of other negative traps set by the adversary that our children can fall into. Are we being diligent to protect the borders of our homes?

"How indignant and horrified we would be if our national homeland security was so slack as to allow an army of terrorists from abroad to break into our nations homes and kill, rape and destroy over 50 percent of our families. Yet, in many ways, this happens morally on a daily basis and few are up in arms and appalled about it." ~Nancy Campbell

Just as our armed military is important to the safety of our nation so arming our children with the word of God is even more important. If our children are 'strong' spiritually in the Lord then that will automatically transfer to being strong in the physical being. "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness."~2 Timothy 3:16 This scripture pretty much covers everything. The answers are there for us if we just incorporated it's teachings everyday in our lives and into the upbringing of our children.

Daddy admonishes his children

He rounded up all the kids that were home at the time for one of his "you need to know this" moments! I like to call them 'light bulb' moments because he seems to suddenly be inspired to share his wisdom and knowledge with his family at times when you least expect it! The children are quite used to times like these and I honestly think they look forward to them. This time there was a story included so he had their full attention!

"And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven; and let us make us a name, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth. And the Lord came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded. And the Lord said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and nothing will be constrained from them, which they have imagined to do.~Genesis 11:3-6

Why did they do this? "Lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the earth." This, was done in disobedience to the command to replenish the earth. They however thought that they would stay together, live together, and die together. To "unite" and pursue anything which theyimagined to do. Here we have, most likely King Nimrod in command and having his own agenda. The agenda being to clam universal monarchy, in order to unite for their common safety, he conspires to keep them in one body, having them all under his eye, he might not also in the future fail to also have them under his power. But, it is God's prerogative to be universal monarch, King of kings; Lord over all. So, in following chapters we see how God handled the situation.

Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another's speech. So the Lord scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city.~Genesis 11

"In Matthew Henry's words, "The project of some to frame a universal character, in order to a universal language, how desirable soever it may seem, is yet, I think, but a vain thing to attempt; for it is to strive against a divine sentence, by which the languages of the nations will be divided while the world stands."

Simply put, they brought on themselves by their open rebellion to God what they feared most. The Lord scattered them. Do we see a pattern here in our day. Could not the building of a "one world government" be compared to the tower of babel. We can see where things in our society are moving. Towards a one world everything. United in thoughts, desires, goals, etc. THIS my friend is not God's intentions. "And they said to one another, Go to, let us make brick, and burn them thoroughly. And they had brick for stone, and slime they had for mortar."

Brick for stone, and slime for mortar? Herein lies daddy's lesson to the kids. What a difference there is between men's building and God's. When men build their 'world' or 'Babel,' they use bricks made from slime and mortar. But when God builds his kingdom, he lays even the very foundations of it with sapphires, and all its borders with pleasant stones. He cautioned the children against this. To be diligent and always focused so as not to become a 'builder' of men and man's work in this world but in God's only. Like Nimrod there are 'hunters' who hunt for the hearts of men in order to move their agenda forward for their own purpose and desires and not for God's. They [the hunters] want the glory and the honor. All we need to do is look around. There is a reason we are referred to as sheep in the scriptures. Sheep are in need of a shepherd. One whom they can look for all things. Children, be careful who you give allegiance to. There are bricks everywhere in the world, and more are being made even as we speak. What makes these 'bricks?' The media, the fashions of the world, the schools, both private and public, the colleges and universities, even in our churches you will find bricks. What do bricks have in common? They are all the same color, size, and shape. They are held together with slime and they break easy. Could the slime and mortar used in the bricks be compared to our thoughts, ideals, goals, and even to how we dress and look. God's desire is that we become as stones. Not easily broken. Individuals, different colors, shapes, etc. (Thoughts, goals, ideas....) Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.~Phillipians 4:8. In this world we are not to engage in "follow the leader" games. Unless that leader is the Lord. Let the Lord build the house and do His work in you. And be weary of wolves in sheep's clothing who desire your heart even though intentions may be honorable. Always follow and stay focused on the King of kings, and Lord of all.

I love it when daddy sits the children down for these inspired moments. He just seems to draw their minds and spirits in sweet communion and inspire in them a desire to do what is right and good.

Serving Proverbs at brunch!

There is nothing better than a cold, overcast day, a warm living room, hot cocoa served up with a warm pan of Impossible Pumpkin Pie with pure cream. (recipe below) Top this off with our scriptures opened before us as we are gathered around our table studying the Words of Solomon! We have chosen to use Wisdom for Life: A Proverb Bible Study from Simply Charlotte Mason. It is simple to use, to the point, and at the same time allows for in depth thinking from our children. (and me) Serving up something nice for the tummy seems to make our scripture studies sweet and memorable. Most of the time it is simply a cup of cocoa but once in a while a surprise is in order.

2 Timothy 3:16-17~All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

This is so very simple, not to mention healthy and delicious.

Impossible Pumpkin Pie~this is not doubled. We double it for our family.

1/4 C. melted butter

1/2 C. honey

1 1/2 C. pumpkin

1/2 C. wheat flour

1/2 t. cinnamon

2 eggs

1/2 t. salt

1/4. t. ginger

1/4 t. nutmeg

1 1/2 C. milk

Combine all ingredients thoroughly. Bake at 425 for 15 minutes, turn down to 350 for 45 minutes. Thats it. Very yummy with plain cream whipped or not.

Wordless Wednesday

"See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven.~Matthew 18:10

Speaking of modesty....

Modesty, a subject often spoken about in our home. Maybe it has a little something to do with having several daughters that it keeps coming up. It is a topic of much discussion in our home as we strive to raise our daughters to be "in the world" but not "of the world." I found it interesting when I looked the word up in the 1828 Dictionary of Noah Webster~That lowly temper which accompanies a moderate estimate of one's own worth and importance. This temper when natural, springs in some measure from timidity, and in young and inexperienced persons, is allied to bashfulness and diffidence. In persons who have seen the world, and lost their natural timidity, modesty springs no less from principle than from feeling, and is manifested by retiring, unobtrusive manners, assuming less to itself than others are willing to yield, and conceding to others all due honor and respect, or even more than they expect or require.

It goes on to say~Modesty, as an act or series of acts, consists in humble, unobtrusive deportment, as opposed to extreme boldness, forwardness, arrogance,presumption, audacity or impudence. The word is also used as synonymous with chastity, or purity of manners. In this sense, modesty results from purity of mind, or from the fear of disgrace and ignominy fortified by education and principle. Unaffected modesty is the sweetest charm of female excellence, the richest gem in the diadem of their honor.

As we see here, modesty is NOT just about what we wear! I Samuel 16-7~For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." Well now, that's a relief right? Now we have biblical proof that we can 'gloss' over the subject of dressing modestly. WAIT, that doesn't sound right! I Timothy 2:8-10~ "I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting; in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but which is proper for women professing godliness with good works."

Let's end the "Hostage Crisis" by determining right now that we will no longer follow the trends of our decadent culture. In matters of personal holiness, why not shoot on the high side? The church is a Bride, not a harlot. Let's determine to adorn ourselves modestly, both inwardly and outwardly.~Harold Vaughan

God promises blessing to obedient children. That should be a powerful motivation for Christian parents because they love their children and want God’s blessing upon them. Today, many parents have developed a pattern of responding to their children rather than instructing and training them. They spend a lot of energy negotiating with their children, often lowering some standard in the process. Parents have been seduced by self-esteem propaganda (e.g., "My son is student of the month at…") and the very liberal idea that a family should be a mini-democracy. The result is child-centered family relationships that may have more in common with anarchy than Biblical order and harmony.

Joshua declared before all the people, "but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." For Joshua, serving the Lord was a family affair. His was a right-side-up view of family. Christian parents, standing together as "benevolent dictators," should be teaching their children respect for the holiness of God in every area of life ― even when they don’t like it. Parents who model and enforce Biblical moral and ethical values consistently in the family home are protecting their children by setting standards of thought and conduct that will help keep them anchored spiritually and socially as they mature.

Trust

I will cry unto God most high; unto God that performeth all things for me. Psalms 57:2

It is such a remarkable gift to know that your children walk in truth. And this is especially true when they have children of their own I have learned. It's one thing to "trust" yourself to make right decisions when it's only YOU involved, but when you have to figure 'life' out for an entire family then the ball rolls in a different direction since there are so many more issues involved. Yesterday I had the wonderful opportunity to just sit and chat on the phone with my oldest daughter Juli for quite a while. It was so nice. The children, hers and mine both were occupying themselves nicely while we 'visited' with each other. She and her husband Kelly are in the middle of making strong decisions for their little family that requires much prayer and direction from the Lord. How wonderful for me to know that they are turning to the ONLY source wherein they can receive those blessings. I lean heavily on the word TRUST and I have learned that it is such and important attribute to have in this life. TRUST in our Heavenly Father, TRUST in ourselves and in the training that we are giving to our children as we raise them. We can and must be willing to put our trust in the Lord and in His word. There is 100% unfailing truth in His word that we can trust in every-thing.

I also have found that we can 'trust' our children to make righteous decisions based on their own hours in prayer. We will always be their parents, we will always be there for them, but nothing is more wonderful than knowing that they can stand, and will stand strong in this life when the rains come and beat upon them, when life brings those unending questions, decisions that have to be made, worries or concerns because they know, that nothing is too big for our God. My married children are still quite young. But they are finding that their faith is key in bringing them through the storms of life. And uniting their faith with their spouses is doubly important.

I am here to tell you that NOTHING in this life is greater than raising our children in the word of God. The time we have with them is so precious. And short. It is our duty to see to it that they are brought up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord so that when they are grown, they will not depart from it.

Are we praying for our children's spouses, (future ones included?) Do we pray that our children will be lead to righteous men and women who's parents have placed in their children the precious teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ? So that when they marry, the legacy of faith will continue on with them and their children. And on and on through generations. What a great responsibility we have. Fortunately we are not alone. Our prayers of faith are our weapons. And when we call upon the Lord in faith we will not be forsaken. What a great blessing!!