Devotions

                                                    The Heart of a Child

     At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" He called a little child and had him stand among them. And he said: " I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven."
                                                                                                       Matthew 18:1-4 (NIV)   


     One night while I was doing some work on my computer, my four year old son walked into my room and asked me, "Dad, when I get to heaven will I be able to hold your hand?" It was apparent to me that he was deeply concerned about this and wanted an answer immediately. Holding back the tears, I gave him a hug and began to share God's truth.

    At that moment, I was reminded of how precious our children are and how important it is for us, as parents, to instruct them in the ways of the Lord at a young age. I was also reminded that my priorities are much too often selfishly arranged.

    When is the last time you took a walk with your child? Have you asked your child to help you find animal shapes in the clouds lately? How about a nice drive through the forest preserve so that your family could enjoy God's beautiful creation. Can you remember the last time you sat at the dinner table, uninterrupted, with your entire family?

    If you answered some of these questions like I did, you may want to be more aware of these seemingly harmless traps set by the enemy:

-Television
-Video Games
-Ipod Touch
-MTV
-Texting
-Cell Phones
-Computers
-Facebook, Twitter, etc.
-Fantasy Sports
-Sports
-MP3 Players
-Work, Work, Work!

    These are just a few of the obvious ones, but there are many more.

    Whatever happened to family game night? Do you remember when it was fun to play Yahtzee or Connect Four as a family? Can we ever get that back?

    Sometimes, as a family, we turn off all electronics and play a game called "Hot Seat." It's not really a game, but my kids think it is so that works for me. We put a chair in the middle of the room and take turns encouraging the one sitting in it. My kids have a great time and can hardly wait to play it again. Sometimes my daughter wants two turns in the hot seat. Kind words seem to be few and far between these days, so this quality time is essential.

    Time is our most fleeting resource. Every time that we miss an opportunity to read scripture with our children, express interest in their lives, go to their game, or simply give them a hug, we are opening the door for Satan to have his way with them.

    Now is the time to take a stand against the enemy!

    Remember, he is powerless in the presence of God!

    Why not invite Jesus into your home tonight.



    Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.
                                                                                                        Revelation 3:20 (NKJV)


Click on the links below for more devotions:

Pray for our children

A good servant

You are special

A "Father's Day" message

Is Disney a family affair?