Reflection James 2:14-16

 In our lives, we often preach and learn about the principles of faith and compassion. Those words are so often repeated that it is easy to think if you have faith in the Word, and compassion for others that you’re good to go. But James 2:14-16 stands as an important reminder of the inseparable union between belief and action. This piece of Scripture acts like a compass guiding us through the complexities of our journey. They illuminate the ultimate power of a faith that extends beyond words.  

James, the brother of Jesus, begins with a probing question in his epistle: “What good is it, my brothers, and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them?” It’s a challenge that pierces the heart, prompting us to take a look in the mirror at the authenticity of our beliefs. Verse 15-16 further unpacks this truth by presenting a vivid scenario: a brother or sister in our midst of lacking necessities. The contrast is stark – offering empty words of comfort without addressing their tangible needs. James poses a rhetorical question that echoes in our souls: What good is faith that doesn’t translate into compassionate action?

Envision a world where our response to those in need goes beyond platitudes. Imagine a community where faith isn’t a passive concept but a vibrant force, moving us to alleviate the struggles of our brothers and sisters. James beckons us to step into this reality, urging us to embody the love and mercy we’ve received. Our faith should shine like a flame within, radiating warmth to those in the cold, providing sustenance to the hungry, and offering solace to the distressed. It’s a call to be conduits of our Lord’s grace by extending our hands to pick up those who stumble along life’s journey.

To practice what James was conveying in these verses, we must understand the holy intersection between belief and compassionate deeds. It’s an invitation to be intentional in our actions, and to actively seek out opportunities to make a difference. Whenever we encounter those in need, I pray we become more than spectators – let’s be participants in the grand waltz of compassion. The impact of faith lived out in deeds is immeasurable. It creates a ripple effect like a stone skipped perfectly across still waters, transforming the lives of not only those we touch, but the very soul of our communities. I pray that we can use James 2:14-16 like a compass guiding us towards a faith that is alive, and resolute in its commitment to love in action. 

I pray that our faith may be a beacon of hope that illuminates the path for others to find comfort, love, and redemption. For in the fusion of deeds and faith, we discover the power that transcends words, and the potential to change the world, one compassionate act at a time. My beloved, let our lives act as testimony of God’s grace, tender hand, and the source of true hope and salvation. Amen.

Steven

Mercy, Mercy, Me

 

Today, 

    I want to talk about the beautiful concept of mercy and forgiveness. Haven’t we all had moments of lapse in character that we feel shameful about? Haven’t we all had something unfavorable done to us? We all sin. I am no more or no less a sinner than you. There was only one person in the flesh who never sinned, and he was nailed to a cross made of cedar, pine, and cypress, to wash away our sins with his blood.  As we confront our shortcomings, we become more compassionate towards others. This introspection enables us to extend the same mercy we seek for ourselves.  In John 7:53-8:11, the narrative of the woman caught in adultery unfolds, presenting a profound lesson on mercy and forgiveness. Faced with condemnation from the scribes and Pharisees, Jesus responds with the powerful challenge, “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.” This pivotal moment encapsulates the core of Christ’s teachings on mercy.

    The implications of this encounter resonate deeply in our daily lives. To authentically manifest the mercy of Christ, we must actively engage in the practice of forgiveness and compassion. This goes beyond societal expectations, choosing understanding over judgment, and extending grace when it seems undeserved.  Consider if you will, the story of Corrie ten Boom, a Holocaust survivor who forgave her captors. Despite enduring tremendous suffering, she chose to embrace forgiveness, illustrating the transformative power of mercy. Her story serves as a guiding light, encouraging us to transcend our grievances and cultivate a spirit of forgiveness.

    In contemporary society, forgiveness often plays a role in mending broken relationships. Families torn apart by misunderstandings, friends divided by conflicts – these are the arenas where Christ’s mercy can be palpably expressed. By letting go of the weight of resentment and offering forgiveness, we contribute to the healing of wounded hearts.

    If we turn our attention to the parable of the prodigal son found in Luke 15:11-32, the father's response to the wayward son’s return is profound. It is a wonderful example of unconditional love and forgiveness. As we go about our relationships, this parable serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring us to extend mercy without hesitation.

    We can use practical manifestations of Christ’s mercy by actively listening, understanding, and offering support to those who have stumbled. It means acknowledging our shared humanity and the inevitability of mistakes. Rather than casting stones of judgment, we become agents of reconciliation, creating an environment where forgiveness can thrive. Self-reflection is crucial in this process. Examining our flaws and understanding the need for forgiveness in our lives makes us more empathetic toward others. As we grapple with our imperfections, we are better equipped to extend the same mercy we seek in ourselves. I think the most incredible gift that Jesus offers us is forgiveness.

    To sum things up, the narrative in John serves as a timeless reminder of the mighty power of mercy. By weaving forgiveness into the linen of our daily interactions, we embody Christ’s compassion. Through stories like Corrie ten Boom’s, the parable of the prodigal son, and our own experiences, we witness the far-reaching impact of forgiveness, molding a world where love conquers judgment, and mercy prevails over condemnation. Anyone can throw a stone, but it takes the blood of the Lamb in our hearts to forgive.  

Amen.

Steve

Santa And Jesus

 Dear friends, 

In contemplating the significance of Jesus as the best gift we’ve received, we find ourselves immersed in the profound depth of God’s love for humanity. Yahweh, the embodiment of God’s grace and mercy, is a gift that transcends time and transforms our lives in ways unparalleled by any earthly treasure. 

The incarnate Word, is the expression of God’s love. In the Gospel of John (3:16) we’re reminded that “God so loved the world that he gave his only son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but have eternal life.” The magnitude of this gift is absolutely staggering. This is a divine sacrifice that bridges the gap between our humanity and God’s divinity.

Jesus offers us redemption of our sins, salvation, and the promise of eternal life. That sounds like the best gift to me. His teachings, life, death, and resurrection provide a roadmap for us to navigate the complexities of our existence. We find hope that surpasses any fleeting happiness the world can offer through Jesus.

Moreover, Jesus is the gift that keeps on giving through teachings that inspire forgiveness, compassion, and selflessness. His example challenges us to love one another as He has loved us. In a world scarred by hate and greed, Jesus remains a beacon of unity, calling us to embrace the commonality of our shared humanity. 

This bounty extends beyond individual salvation to the transformation of communities and societies. It inspires acts of kindness, mercy, and justice. The Holy Spirit guides and empowers us to bear the fruits of patience, goodness, love, joy, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control.

This is a call to not lose sight of the immeasurable gift we’ve been blessed to receive. In Him, we find not just a historical radical, or a moral teacher, but the literal living Son of God, who knows our joys, our sorrows, and our intimate struggles. May we cherish and share this gift with others to receive a path to true fulfillment and the assurance of a love that will never fade away.

While the gift of Jesus holds profound spiritual significance as the embodiment of God’s love, the comparison with Santa Claus introduces a different cultural perspective. 

Santa is deeply rooted in folklore, but born from the resplendent legend of Saint Nicholas of Myra. He is popularized in modern culture with the joy of giving and receiving gifts during this festive season. In the context of Christmas celebrations, Santa symbolizes the spirit of generosity, spreading cheer and merriment, and bringing joy to children and families around the world.

However, it is essential to recognize the distinction between the two concepts. Jolly Old St. Nick represents a cultural and secular figure associated with the exchange of the material gifts, emphasizing the joy of giving and the magic of the season. Jesus, in contrast, embodies the divine gift of salvation, spiritual transformation, eternal life, and a connection with god.

While both Jesus and Santa are associated with the Christmas season, the parallel serves as a reminder of the dual nature of Christmas celebrations. As a blend of cultural traditions and spiritual noteworthiness it encourages individuals to reflect on the deeper meaning behind the festivities and to balance the ebullience of exchanging material gifts with an appreciation for the spiritual gift of Jesus Christ.    

Are You Well In The Suffering

 Perhaps I have a unique point of view on the topic of children suffering from disease and disabilities by being the father of a medically complex child. I see how our world is not catered to all. My daughter is non-verbal and communicates using American Sign Language. So many times, she will sign simple words like please or thank you to nurses when we’re at the doctor’s office, and her signs fall flat with them. They either think she is blowing a kiss, waving hello, or reaching for something. People look at my wife and I to ask what she is saying. Schools require a foreign language as a provision for graduation. They usually offer German, French, Spanish, or Italian; languages that they may never need to use. I often ponder why ASL isn’t a basic instruction like English is, let alone as an offering for another language in schools. I believe that companies should include basic ASL in their yearly compliance courses so that deaf and/or non-verbal clients and customers feel welcome.

Despite the lack of communication that we have with the “normal” world, we also get stares and words spoken under the breath of a passerby when they see her feeding tube. In the realm of raising a child with a disability, we have it pretty easy. Harper is just as physically active as a typical child and is smarter than the average children her age. There are others whose daily life isn’t as easy as ours. We see children all of the time who are cemented in wheelchairs or attached to ventilators, IVs, and machines to keep their hearts pumping. We know others who are so severely handicapped that they require assisted living facilities to care for their basic needs. 

I recently had a conversation with a coworker about why God can allow the suffering of innocent babies. I brought up how sad it made me during our most recent hospital stay to be roomed next to a little girl who had no visitors, even on Christmas day. It broke my heart to walk past and see her lying still in her bed, in complete darkness, only surrounded by a stuffed animal. In our discussion, I told my friend how it is commonplace for disabled children, and the elderly, to have no one visit them. No one should be alone. No child should have to live through a long battle with terminal cancer, or never be able to play on the playground with other kids their age. It is a part of the human condition that leaves us scratching our heads and praying for solutions. However, like all things, we can find an answer in Scripture.

I want to dive into the words of our Lord found in Matthew 19:14, where Jesus says, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of Heaven belongs to such as these.” These words hold tremendous significance, especially when considering children who suffer from disabilities and diseases. In this verse, Jesus is emphasizing the importance of childlike faith and innocence. He encourages us to welcome children with open arms, for they exemplify qualities that align with the values of God’s kingdom. Now, how does this relate to children facing disabilities and illnesses? 

Firstly, we must recognize that the challenges these children and their families endure are not a result of their lack of faith or virtue. Rather, they are a testament to their resilience and strength, embodying the very characteristics that Jesus commends. In their vulnerability, these children become powerful witnesses to the grace and love of God.

As a community of believers, it is our responsibility to ensure that we do not hinder these precious ones from coming to Jesus. We are called to create an environment that fosters inclusion, compassion, and understanding for our fellow brothers and sisters. By doing so, we embody the essence of Christ’s teachings and create a reflection of the Kingdom here on Earth.

In our journey to embrace the Kingdom, we are to learn from these children. Their unique perspectives and challenges provide us with an opportunity to grow in selflessness, empathy, and patience. Through our collective efforts, we can create a supportive community that acknowledges the intrinsic value of every individual regardless of their cognitive or physical abilities.

Furthermore, our response to those with health conditions or impairments should extend beyond mere acceptance; it should involve active advocacy for their rights, access to medical care, and education. By championing their cause, we become instruments of God’s justice and love, working to break down barriers that hinder these people from flourishing. 

There are several ways we can help our families with disabilities: 

• Inclusive Communities: Foster inclusive environments within our churches and communities. Ensure physical accessibility and create programs that accommodate diverse needs.

• Education and Awareness: Promote understanding, and awareness about different disabilities. Educate the community on how to interact with and support people with diverse needs.

• Advocacy: Advocate for policies that promote inclusivity in education, healthcare, and public spaces. Support organizations working towards the rights and well-being of disabled individuals.

• Support Families: Provide emotional and practical support to families caring for loved ones with disabilities. Offer respite care, assistance with daily tasks, or even a listening ear.

• Medical Assistance: Collaborate with medical professionals and organizations to ensure children receive the proper medical care, therapies, and interventions tailored to their specific needs.

• Educational Opportunities: Create or support educational programs that cater to diverse learning styles. This includes adapting a curriculum and providing resources.

• Financial Assistance: If able, offer financial support for medical treatments, therapies, and assistive devices which can be costly for the families. Daily living expenses tend to take a deeper toll on the family.

• Volunteerism: Volunteer time and skills to work directly with adults and children with disabilities, or support organizations that focus on their well-being.

• Prayer and Spiritual Support: Include them in prayer and spiritual activities. Foster a sense of belonging within the spiritual family. 

• Promote Positive Narratives: Share stories and experiences that highlight the abilities and achievements of children with disabilities, challenging stereotypes and fostering a more inclusive mindset.

By actively engaging in these ways, we contribute to creating a world where children with disabilities are not only accepted but also empowered to thrive. Matthew 19:14 challenges us to view those with disabilities through the lens of Christ’s love. Let us be a community that embraces, welcomes, and advocates for these precious souls recognizing that in doing so, we are actively participating in the realization of God’s Kingdom on Earth. May our hearts open with intentional actions and our love be unconditional, for the Kingdom of Heaven truly belongs to such as these. 

Breaking Anxiety

 

My dear friends,

Let us dive into the eye-opening wisdom of Philippians 4:6-7, a passage that offers a guiding light in the face of life’s trials. The Apostle Paul, inspired by the Holy Ghost, encourages us: “Do not be anxious about anything; but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to god. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Life throws a corn maze of challenges that often leave us grappling with anxiety. The complexities of our existence can weigh heavy on our minds, threatening to obscure the light of faith. Yet, in these moments of turmoil, we are reminded that we serve God who not only listens but welcomes us to cast our cares upon him.

In Psalm 55:22 the author implores us with these words; “Cast your cares on the Lord for he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.” This beautiful verse paints a vivid picture of a God who not only invites us to unburden our hearts but assures us of His unwavering support. The Almighty sustains us in our moments of weakness, providing a steadfast foundation upon which we can stand firm like a mighty oak tree.

1 Peter 5:7 reiterates this sentiment, urging us to “cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” What a miraculous truth that lies within these words – the Creator of the universe cares so deeply for each of His children. Our anxieties, both great and small, matter to Him, and He invites us to entrust them into His loving hands.

The call to prayer is not just a formality; it is a divine invitation to communicate with the One who holds the entire universe in His Hands. I believe that Matthew 11:28-30 resonates with us a comforting assurance as Jesus declares, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest.” Here, we find an open message of love to lay our problems and worries before the Lord, exchanging our weariness for the rest that only He can provide.

Therefore, my friends, let us approach the throne of grace with confidence (Hebrews 4:16). In prayer, let us pour out our hearts, not only expressing our concerns but doing so with an attitude of gratitude. As we engage in this holy conversation, the peace of God, an unexplainable hoard of tranquility, will stand guard over our hearts and minds, rooted in our Emmanuel.

May we strive to be a people who, through the power of prayer, confidently lift our anxieties to the Lord, knowing that His peace will reign supremely in our hearts.

May the grace and peace of Christ be with you,

 Steve

Working With God

 My beloved brothers and sisters,

In the rich and nurturing ground of Corinthians 3:7-9, we can dig deeper into how we can be God’s co-workers and serve others through our works. Imagine yourself as a diligent gardener in the never-ending fields of our Lord’s great creation, with each seed of kindness and every act of compassion being a unique contribution to the holy garden.

A simple smile has the power of a seed that when planted, can blossom into you in someone’s heart. When we greet others with warmth and genuine kindness, we water the soils of human connection, allowing the bonds of love to grow and flourish. We find the potential for immense impact in these small acts.

Think about when we extend a helping hand to those in need. Whether it’s offering assistance to a struggling friend, supporting a neighbor in times of hardship, or volunteering in our community, we become collaborators with Jesus’s mission of building a foundation of compassion. Through our unity in service, we are part of the living testament. 

The words we speak have the potential to shape worlds. Encouraging words are like seeds of affirmation, nurturing self-worth and confidence in others. Furthermore, our ability to listen attentively with the intent to understand and empathize can be the water that soothes the parched souls of those facing challenges. We’re co-creating spaces for healing in these conversations.

I encourage you to think of a time when a community came together for a shared cause. Whether it was addressing social injustice, alleviating suffering, or cheering on a cause of the marginalized. (The events of 9-11 come to my mind where a horrific day was met with a beautiful reaction.) Our collective actions become the bricks and mortar of a society built on the foundations of justice, compassion, and equality.

Each one of us is a finely tuned instrument, playing a unique part in the heavenly composition. As co-workers with Christ, we orchestrate the melody of service, kindness, and love. How blessed are we that our lives are a reflection of divine harmony? It is my prayer that our music inspires others to join the chorus, cultivating a world where God’s love is evident in every deed and shared moment.

Go forth my faithful friends, knowing that your labor is not in vain. Embrace the role as the Good Sheppard’s co-pilot with enthusiasm, for in the garden of life, your works are integral to the blooming of our Lord and redeemer’s kingdom on Earth.

Amen,

Steven

Contentment

 

    Have you ever thought to yourself, “Man, I wish I had (blank) like (insert name here). They have it made.” I know that I sure have. I still do to this day if I’m being honest with myself. The drive home from work is where the thought comes to mind, and it’s usually a kid driving on his way home from school. I’ll look out the window and think, how in the world does that kid drive a better car than me?! Another time I have a thought like that is when I’m watching football on tv. I think about how much money those guys make to play a game I enjoyed playing as well; I could’ve gone pro – lucky ducks. The truth of the matter is that the only thing I could go pro at is playing an armchair quarterback. Professional athletes have an absurd amount of skill, talent, dedication, and a little luck.

    You see, often we find ourselves wishing and wanting something that someone else has. We let the whisper of jealousy drown out the voice of reason, and we end up feeling envy about our circumstances. We focus on the have-nots, and not enough on the haves. The thing is, is that even though we might feel that we deserve better things, better stuff, more money, faster cars, bigger houses, longer vacations in better destinations, we have exactly what we’re meant to have and, in the time we’re meant to have it.

    The Lord gives us what we need, at the time he thinks we’re ready to receive it. God’s timing is perfect whether we understand it or not. He assures us in Psalm 27:14, “Wait for the Lord; be strong and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord.” Consider the story of Abraham and Sarah, waiting for the fulfillment of God’s promise of a child. Despite their impatience, God’s timing prevailed, and Isaac, the child of promise, was born. Their journey teaches us the beauty that unfolds when we place our trust in God’s appointed time.

    Trusting the timing of the Lord is an act of faith, a declaration that his plans surpass our understanding. I pray that in our waiting, we draw closer to Him, for His timing is the key to unlocking the fullness of His promises. May we stand firm in the assurance that, indeed, everything beautiful happens in His perfect time. Amen.

    In the timeless words of Paul from Philippians 4:11-13, “I’ve learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation.” I pray that these words resonate in our hearts today as we gather in gratitude. Envy can be a formidable adversary, yet in 1 Timothy 6:6, we’re reminded, “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” Our faith calls us to find wealth not in possessions, but in the richness of a content heart.

    We can find solace in God’s enduring presence by reflecting on Hebrew 13:5, “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” In a world that often measures success by comparison, let Psalm 23:1 guide us: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” May we trust in His provision and cultivate gratitude for the blessings already bestowed upon us. James was trying to warn us of the destructive nature of envy in verse 3:16, “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.” Instead, we should emulate the spirit of 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this God will for you in Christ Jesus.”

    In closing, I pray that as we navigate life’s challenges, we let gratitude be our anchor, and contentment be our guide. With hearts full of thanksgiving, let us cherish the abundance found in God’s love and the simple joys He provides. Amen.

Fruits of the Spirit

 

Friends, today I want to talk more about the wisdom that St. Paul has to offer us on the teachings inspired by Jesus. Paul writes in his letter to Galatians 5:22-23, “But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” In our journey of faith, these virtues serve as a compass, guiding us to our true north in a life that reflects the love and grace bestowed upon us by our Lord Jesus. 

Embracing the fruits of the Spirit in our daily lives offers a transformative path to becoming better people of faith. I implore you to start each day in prayer, seeking out Christ’s guidance to cultivate love, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 16:14 “Do everything in love.” By approaching our interactions for the day with love, we create an environment where the other fruits can flourish. Channeling the words of Jesus in Matthew 22:37-39, He declares, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind… Love your neighbor as yourself. From love springs joy, and as Psalm 16:11 reminds us, “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.” This joy is not dependent on circumstances but deeply rooted in our connection with God. 

Peace, as mentioned in Galatians, finds its roots in Isaiah 26:3, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they truly trust in you.” Trust in God cultivates a peace that surpasses understanding. We should all take a page out of Proverbs and seek peace in our relationships and circumstances. Proverbs 16:7 tells us, “When the Lord takes pleasure in anyone’s way, he causes their enemies to make peace with them.” Trusting in God’s plan allows us to maintain inner peace, even in the face of challenges.

Forbearance, goodness, faithfulness, and kindness are intricately woven together. Reflecting Christ’s example in Ephesians 4:2, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” Our life in faith involves extending kindness and patience to others. In the inevitable moments of challenges, we all face, I like to remember the call to patience and forbearance. James 5:11 encourages us with the example of Job’s perseverance, reminding us of the reward that awaits those who endure difficulties with steadfast faith. Goodness and faithfulness are found again in the words of Psalm 25:10, “All the ways of the Lord are loving and faithful toward those who keep the demands of his covenant.”

As we seek God’s goodness, we find strength in remaining faithful to his covenant. One of the key components of the fruits of the Spirit is to practice kindness and goodness consistently, and we can do so by focusing on the principle found in Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you.” By extending grace to others, we embody the goodness that flows from a transformed heart of faith. Remain faithful in your commitments and relationships, recognizing that faithfulness is reciprocal. As one of my favorite passages in the good book, Proverbs 3:3-4 advises, “Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.”

We’re advised to approach challenges with gentleness. Colossians 3:12 reminds us, “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” Gentleness fosters understanding and promotes unity, something lacking in today’s realm of harsh times and even harsher tones. Gentleness, as highlighted in the Scriptures, echoes Jesus’ own words in Matthew 11;29, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” 

We are encouraged to pursue joy with an understanding that it reflects our relationship with God. In Philippians 4:4, Paul is urging us to “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Usually, I would say that you don’t have to tell me twice, but in this instance I’m all for it. Let us grow joy by focusing on gratitude and the blessings that surround us.  The final key component is to exercise self-control in all aspects of life. This is perhaps, the hardest of all Spiritual fruits. It is so easy for us to be impulsive; anyone else grab a soda and candy bar in the check-out lane? Proverbs 25:28 says, “Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.” By maintaining discipline, we exhibit the power of the Holy Spirit.

Incorporating these virtues into our daily lives helps us radiate the fruits of the Spirit, becoming living testimonies of God’s holy grace. It is my prayer that we’re able to embody these qualities, and not only strengthen our own faith, but also create an environment where others are drawn to become disciples of Christ’s everlasting love.

 

Righteous Parenting

 

I want to begin this letter/sermon/reflection, by saying, praise the Lord, my brothers and sisters! Glory to God in the highest for His gift of another beautiful day in His presence. I’m not blind to the woes of the world, in fact, I do my best to keep up on global calamities so that I may pray for those dealing with the stress and heartache that soon follow. But, as St. Peter instructs in Ephesians 6:10-20, verse 11 says, “Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” I put on the armor of God as soon as I wake up, and that allows me to stand with power, and pray for everyone going through a hard season. Now, let’s take a dive into the Word, and I tell you what, it’s going to set your heart on fire for righteous parenting!

Hallelujah! Proverbs 22:6 declares, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” We’re talking about shaping champions for Christ, raising them up to be warriors for the everlasting Kingdom! You hear me? That is some mighty fine good news if you ask me. As parents, our responsibility extends beyond providing for physical needs; it encompasses nurturing the spiritual foundation that will sustain our children throughout their lives.

Going back to the words of the Apostle Paul, he says in Ephesians 6:4: “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” This teaches us the importance of creating an environment of love, discipline, and above all, instilling the Word and the power of God into their very beings. If we reflect on Psalm 127:3-5, we understand that children are a heritage from the Lord, a reward, and like little arrows in the hands of a warrior and you’re launching them into destiny. Aim them towards righteousness and purpose. Our homes are the training ground, and we’re molding champions for God’s Kingdom. Let the devil know he isn’t stealing your legacy!

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 reads, “And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children and shall talk to them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.” Our homes need to be filled with a continuous dialogue of faith and values, not just on Sundays, my beloved brothers and sisters; I’m talking about a 24/7 immersion in the world.

I just love the promise of Matthew 7:11, it is the ultimate example of divine parenthood. Jesus assures us, “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him!” As earthly parents, we strive to emulate the boundless love and generosity modeled by our heavenly Father. Lean into His example, tap into His wisdom.

As parents, let’s rise in prayer and dedication, embracing these immaculate principles, and cultivating an atmosphere of faith. We’re on a mission, and God’s Word is our battle plan. I pray we can raise a generation that will impact this world for Jesus Christ. May they shake nations for the glory of the Lord. As we navigate the challenges that come with being blessed as parents, may we seek strength and guidance in these verses, knowing that through our dedication and reliance on God’s Word, that we can raise children who shine as a light in a world hungering for love and purpose. 

Amen.