SI
SI
discoversearch

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor.  We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community.  If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.
Pastimes : Ask and You Shall Receive -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?


To: calgal who wrote (5759)6/1/2004 4:47:37 PM
From: calgal  Respond to of 14396
 
19 June
Making a Good Connection

2 Samuel 14:28-33

Everyone is aware of the tragedy of broken families and the domestic discord that ensues. The immoral and rebellious behavior of some teenagers is deplorable; however, we need to remember that for many of them, a contributing factor was deprivation of the normal affection that should characterize every home. Unfor-tunately, far too many households lack a father who knows how to express love and support in a telling way.

This is an age-old problem. We see it in the Bible with fathers like David, who seemed painfully unaware of how to foster strong emotional relationships with his children. This critical skill is imperative if we are to keep our families connected and healthy. It is even more important since we are supposed to demonstrate the character of God to our children. If Dad comes across as shaming and demanding or passive and detached, is it any wonder children want nothing to do with a God they assume is like that?

Fathers may not feel naturally equipped to remedy this problem, but they can begin with simple words of affirmation such as "I love you" or "That was a fine job." They can also show love is by giving meaningful gifts. Sometimes love is best expressed by spending quality time with our children and doing things with them or for them. And don't forget physical affection. In some cases, a hug or an arm around the shoulder will unlock a child's heart faster than anything else. Learning the "languages of love" will help keep the hearts of our children.



To: calgal who wrote (5759)6/1/2004 4:47:56 PM
From: calgal  Respond to of 14396
 
20 June
Family Influence: Good or Bad?

2 Timothy 1:3-5

Sometimes we wonder if there’s any way we can leave a mark of the time we spent on earth. How will anyone know we’ve been here? How can we leave behind something that will benefit society? Will others know of our faith in Jesus Christ?

The answer is a resounding yes–it’s your children. The way you rear your children ripples down from generation to generation. If you ground your children in godly principles through both word and action, they will follow in your footsteps as they grow older.

As Paul writes Timothy, we see that Timothy had a spiritual heritage. Timothy’s grandmother, Lois, and mother, Eunice, were both devoted to God. Paul saw that same devotion in Timothy, who learned it from his relatives.

When your children imitate you, what place will Jesus have in their lives? Will they be a man or woman of prayer? Will they develop strong, godly relationships? Will the Word of God have a place of importance in their lives?

You can’t just tell your children, "Do as I say." Children are watching. So, in order to hand down this godly foundation, you must show them what place Jesus has in your life. You must be a man or woman of prayer. God’s Word must have a strong place of importance in your life. When you do these things, your children will see you and do likewise. (Proverbs 22:6)