I recently read the book, Why Can’t I Get My Kids to Behave, by Joey and Carla Link of Parenting Made Practical, and I love how they not only explain the importance of teaching children to obey but also the practical side of how to do it! The Links get to the heart of obedience and provide practical tools to help train your kids that are easy to understand and implement.
Last month I had an opportunity to interview Joey and Carla Link from Parenting Made Practical, and in “part two” of our interview, they share some practical tips and resources for teaching our kids to obey. Moms that find themselves parenting through difficult circumstances will be encouraged that, while it may not be easy, teaching your children to obey is possible!
I enjoy hearing creative ways that other families disciple their kids to love Jesus and follow in His ways. Although each family is unique, we can all glean ideas and wisdom from each other, so I thought it would be beneficial to hear from some families as to what Biblical resources and approaches they have found effective in encouraging their children in Christ-like ways.
The Rollins family has been very dear to our family for the last few years, and we are always touched to learn how God uses them to share God’s love with others in the most difficult of times. It amazes me how even their kids take initiative and find ways to reach out to hurting kids through the ministry! I have asked them some questions to find out more about their ministry and how kids can get involved in serving through it.
Last summer I led a small group of teenagers at Camp 220 with my church. I had heard many great things about this camp and how teens’ lives had been dramatically changed, and I wanted to experience it first hand with the students from my neighborhood Bible club. It was an unforgettable experience, to say the least.
I recently met a wonderful lady named Victoria who is part of a refugee ministry. Her family ministers to refugees from countries all over the world. I was amazed by her heart for serving others and how she and her husband, Sergrey, have involved their whole family in sharing God’s love with others.
I have had the privilege of knowing the McMullen family for many years and hearing first hand their stories of bringing children into their home through foster care and adoption. I know the road has not always been easy for them, but seeing their beautiful children become part of their family and watching how God uses them to impact other families by their ministry is inspirational.
I have always dreamed of taking a family short-term mission trip one day. Family vacations are so great, but getting to serve others, be a part of the great commission, and experience another country and culture as a family would be an unforgettable experience! While we have yet to do this with our children, I wanted to find a family that has for my next family highlight. I was introduced to the Jordan family of Houston who went on a family mission trip this year.
I have had the privilege of knowing and serving with the Jaimez family for several years now and have been so blessed by them and their heart to serve the Lord. Even though Carmen is a single mom, she does not let the difficulties of life hold her back from all that God has for her and her family. She not only serves with her immediate family, but she also serves with several of her sisters and their families too!
I hope you enjoy this devotional on an attentive heart! Read the italic section or paraphrase with your children to fit their age level. You can do all in one day, or split between a few days. Visual links entitled “visuals” in light blue can be printed ahead of time to show during the lesson, or click link if using your mobile device.