Why not take a moment to share encouraging words with your children? Whether that be a note tucked into a lunchbox or pocket or a special valentine, our kids and teens need to be affirmed and encouraged just as much as we do! Writing the words down means your child can be impacted by them countless times in the future.
Encourage them when life presents challenges.
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
This verse is popular and with good reason as it serves to rally our spirits in the midst of trouble. And surely there is nothing so reassuring as knowing our all-powerful God is always with us! When your child is facing challenges big or small or anywhere in between, reading the book of Joshua together should be a comfort. Joshua was faced with a brand-new job that he wasn't sure he was ready for but God Himself offered reassurance and advice. Remind your child that God goes with them as they face friendship difficulties, moving, a new school, a challenging class, or any other disappointment life might throw her way.Prompts:
- I know this (situation) is hard for you but I want to remind you that God is always with you.
- Joshua was scared to do the new job God chose him to do. If you are scared that's ok and perfectly normal. But look at what God told Joshua…
Catch them doing good with fruits of the spirit.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Galations 5:22-23
Ad Jesus-followers we strive to align our hearts and actions with what His Word teaches. The fruits of the spirit have long been a challenge for me personally… but perhaps this challenge extends to all of us, our kids included. How special would your child feel to be noticed for doing the right thing! Choose one of the qualities listed in the passage from Galations and tell your child when you saw him exhibiting that quality.Prompts:
- I noticed your (quality) when…
- You showed (quality) when…
- You are so full of (quality)! I enjoy it when you…
Notice how God made them and their special roles.
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10
The most intimate and lasting message you can give to your children is to affirm who they are and how God created them. The best way to do this is to keep their actions completely separate from this observation. Our God's love for us is total and complete no matter what we do or do not accomplish. As parents our love should be this very same way. Your observations of their gifts or the roles they play in the lives of others are a true treasure.Prompts:
- God made you… (loving, generous, sensitive, an observer, a defender)
- God gave you a heart for… (justice, friendship, creation) I notice this when…
- One of the special jobs God has given you is to be… (a friend, a listener, a sister, a brother). I notice how well you do at this job when…
