Escaping This World

The House is Saved by the Parent

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 02:00:02 PDT

Many parents can take heart to know that the family is saved because of the deeds of the parent. I imagine there are others that worry about it too.

In Genesis 7:1 it says, “Then the LORD said to Noah, “Come into the ark, you and all your household, because I have seen that you are righteous before Me in this generation.”

Noah’s family was saved because he was righteous. It was not because his sons were righteous or his daughter in laws. The family was saved because Noah stayed faithful to God.

As a parent we can take heart in knowing that as long as we are staying faithful to the Lord’s teachings, our family has that protection. This gives parents all the more reason to live as Christ and be true Christ followers.
Just as Cain inherited the nature of sin from Adam, so do our children inherit sin. This is why we have to teach our children God’s love, God’s grace, and God’s mercy. God overcomes the sinful nature of man, but that can only happen if we allow it.

Resembling the Father

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 13:18:27 PDT

Is it not a wonderful feeling when somebody says, “Oh you must be ___’s mom/dad! They look just like you!”

God enjoys that too.

"but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, 'Be holy, for I am holy'." - 1 Peter 1:15-16

God wants His children (us) to resemble Him. It’s not always a physical appearance that gives away who our parent is. In the case with God, it would be our soul-ful appearance.

Do you show Godly mercy?

Do you show Godly compassion?

As a parent, do your children see that loving side as much or more than the discipline side? God lovingly leads us to Him. He does not force us, we have our own will. It is noted, however, that in order to get to Heaven and to be with Him, we are to follow His commands. The best way to do that is to live according to His example.

The best way for your children to see God, is through you.

Taking Care of Mom…

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 23:34:00 PDT

It is very easy to focus all of your attention on the kids. Wanting the kids to have the best and most opportunities happens in all homes, it doesn’t matter if the focus is on God or football.

As a mom I have reached burnout a few times in this 17 year career. It is not pleasant feeling hopeless and having anxiety attacks when things do not go “just so”.

It was not until I finally was in a healthy relationship that I realized I have to take care of myself in order to be able to be the parent that my children deserved. It is not a matter of putting yourself first, but it is a matter of taking care of your needs.

The most loved way I was able to do that when my children were little was by attending a moms group that is faith based and with the goal of being there for moms that may not have anyone else. A marvelous organization for Mothers of Preschoolers is MOPS. Our local group was a God send for me. I met ladies that were close to my age and had children the same age as my young ones. The mentor moms brought messages of hope and it centers on God.

Mom needs a sweet treat eaten during a few minutes of quiet, that doesn’t involve locking herself in the bathroom and crouching in the shower. Ha-ha!

Check MOPs.org for a group near you! And even if your children are older than kindergarten, MOPs groups always can use volunteers to help with the kids of the moms that go to the meetings.

Waving The White Flag

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 10:49:23 PDT

We are very glad to feature this guest post from Brooke over at the M.O.B. Society. As parents of boys (and girls) we find this a very valuable resource. We hope you enjoy.

Are you the mother of boys who often finds herself ready to waive the white flag in defeat?

Do they drain you, overwhelm you, steal your heart, break your heart and cause you more anxiety than you ever dreamed possible?

Maybe you only have one boy amongst a sea of estrogen and you just can’t figure out how to respond to him in a way that affirms all that is good about his masculinity.

You're not alone.

Last May, over 1300 women and a few dads in SEVEN different countries joined together to pray purposefully and passionately for the hearts of their sons in a challenge called 21 Days of Prayer for Sons. 21 Days is based on the best-selling eBook Warrior Prayers: Praying the Word for Boys in the Areas They Need it Most.

Even our best parenting efforts don't come with a guarantee. As much as we might wish we could change their hearts of stone to hearts of flesh (Ezekiel 36:26), we can't. But we serve a God who can. Knowing this, it becomes quite clear that there is only one thing we can do…

Plead with God.

Pray.

“The fervent prayers of a righteous man avails much.” James 5:17.

It’s our hope.

The next 21 Days of Prayer for Sons challenge starts September 6 and ends September 26, 2011. How can you participate? Easy!

Purchase your own copy of Warrior Prayers: Praying the Word for Boys in the Areas They Need it Most (just $5.97 as a PDF download or on Amazon Kindle!) You could, in theory, participate in the challenge without a personal copy, but your experience will be much deeper and richer with it.
Commit to praying for your son(s) or grandsons 10 times a day for 21 days straight. This is a huge commitment, so if you feel God leading you to participate, pray and ask Him to give you the strength and endurance you need.
Consider leading your own group on your blog or in your community!
Sign-up HERE!

Get inspired by recent participants!

“This challenge…has given me my joy back in mothering” ~LaToya

“Thank you for giving me a tangible method for transformation in my family!!” ~Anne

“Thanks, Brooke for your help. I’ve always known that God was listening; I just didn’t know what to say!” ~Laurel

“So many heart changes are going on in our home and I’m just so thankful…” ~Ashley

************************

Brooke is a mom of two young boys who leave her desperate for God’s grace. Her pursuit of being a better mom has left her at the foot of the cross, knowing that if God doesn’t show up … nothing happens. This dependence upon God to turn hearts of stone to hearts of flesh leads her to her knees in prayer. She’s the author of the best-selling eBook Warrior Prayers: Praying the Word for Boys in the Areas They Need it Most, creator of the 21 Days of Prayer for Sons challenge and co-founder of the well-loved online community for mothers of boys, the M.O.B. Society. She offers hope for change to the hearts of women at her main blog, A Life in Need of Change.

Casting Cares

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 13:05:44 PDT

“Momma!! Bubba busted his head open! And it’s bleeding ALL over the place!”

Now think, what is the first thing you do? Seriously. The first thing when you hear that?

Remarkably, I was able to pray. Before I moved I prayed to God and asked him to give me the strength and the wisdom to be able to handle what I was about to see. (I have a VERY squeamish tummy and do not do very well with bodily fluids.)

Bubba had blood everywhere, on his face, hands and in his hair. Figuring out where the wound was appeared to be a tricky proposition. Thankfully I had the stomach for it, thank you Jesus! Washing Bubba’s face off and seeing no abrasion or wound worried me, this meant it was in his hair. We rinsed his hair out in the sink with the sprayer and found a three inch abrasion. Again, thanking God it was an abrasion instead of a gouge. It was bleeding enough as is. Once we got Bubba calm it stopped and we were able to get him set up with some ice on his head. He’s good and he is extremely happy that we did not have to go to the emergency room.

While dealing with the situation, I realized that many times we react before taking a breath. As Christians and, more importantly, as parents we need to take a breath.

Psalms 94: 19 When I am filled with cares, Your comfort brings me joy. (HCSB)

I honestly believe that God comforted my troubled mother’s heart and equipped me in this situation. This matters because God cares about us and wants the best for us.

1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care on Him, because He cares about you. (HCSB)

Little Star : Book Review

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 12:30:54 PST


Enjoying the "Little Star" by Anthony DeSefano

Near the beginning of November, Anthony DeStefano sent us an email to inquire if we would be interested in review his newest book Litte Star to see if our readers would enjoy it. My only regret is that we have not gotten the review up sooner.

Product Description

“I think I understand!” Little Star cried out. “The baby Jesus is a king! He’s just little!”

A king is about to be born! The stars in the heavens are competing to shine the brightest to celebrate his birth. But when they see the poor family, the donkey, the shabby stable, the stars all think, That can’t possibly be a king. We’ve been fooled.

All except one. The smallest, loneliest star in the sky, Little Star, is the only one to understand what the king was about to bring to the world. But what can Little Star do for him?

Certain to become a Christmas classic, this delightful tale connects the star atop our Christmas trees to the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of Jesus, in the hearts and minds of young children.

In House Review

There are not very many books that our youngest child will sit through, he just doesn't have the interest typically to listen all the way through. This book however is different. All through reading the story he was interacting and pointing out things in the pictures that the story described and even better was the relation to reality when he pointed to the star on our Christmas tree and asked "is that little star".

This book is a hit that all of the kids enjoyed and will be treasured among our Christmas and Advent Traditions for years to come!

Little Star

Thanksgiving

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 19:54:52 PST

I will praise You, O LORD, with my whole heart;
I will tell of all Your marvelous works.
I will be glad and rejoice in You;
I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High.

- Psalm 9:1-2 (NKJV)

We encourage you on this day of Thanksgiving here in the United States to remind yourself of things that your family should be thankful for. Take a moment to remember how God has provided for your family with His perfect provision.

In our family, although there have been ups and downs, God has been faithful every step of the way. Our youngest child has a lot of medical stuff that could be a focus of negativity, except that in the past year he has been VERY healthy and doing quite well with his development.

How has the Lord blessed you?

Looking for a Few Good People

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 13:18:55 PDT

As fall has struck, so has Back to School. Thus, time has become limited.

Here at ParentsForChrist.com we are looking for a few people that would be interested in sharing with us God-inspired posts about family, parenting, or marriage.

If you would like more information please, comment below or email webmaster(at)parentsforchrist(dot)com with the subject of Guest Blogger.

Thank you!

Responsibility

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 05:00:07 PDT

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. Mark 16:15

We are to go and tell everybody and everything about God and our Savior Jesus Christ. The only question is how we go about it, my personal suggestion is that "you catch more flies with honey". If you want others to know the love of God, you have to allow God's love to come through you.

The same goes with your children. If your desire is that your family grows to love God, they have to see the example of God's love in you.

Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Matthew 5:13-16

We as Christians if we are doing what we are supposed to cannot be hidden we are to make the difference. This means that the way we talk, the things we involve ourselves in, EVERYTHING about us points back to who we serve. If we serve God, then the love we show goes back to God.

When the salvation of Christ is within you, you can't help but be a light shining before others.

Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6

Our children are to be taught of God and the Bible. If parents instill the love of God into their children when they are young; they are likely to follow the Lord as adults. Just as parents teach their children to be independent by learning how to take care of themselves, children should be taught of God.

Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.

But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?

My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. 1 John 3:16-18

Simply put, walk the talk. Parents can not expect their children to live godly lives and be obedient, if they themselves do not do the same. As a parent, your authority is God.

All About Survival...

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 05:00:07 PDT

After checking some of the blogs we follow, we found this wonderful idea! It's Back to School Survival Kit with Scripture. (http://www.executivehomemaker.com/back-to-school-survival-kit-scripture/)

It's really cute and through the eleven years we have had a child in school we have seen secular variations. This is the first time we have seen it with scripture! Our family wishes we saw this about a month ago since the kids have been in school for three weeks now. The awesome thing about these though is that it doesn't have to be just for back to school. You can do them whenever you want!

Enjoy surprising your children with the goodies and bless them with the scripture!

(We saw the link over at ModSquadMoms. The link for this is at Executive Homemaker)

Divided We Fall

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 06:00:13 PDT

Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand. Matthew 12:25

Hmmm... Divided we fall... United we stand. Our marriages and our families are included in that. A house can not be divided; because if it is, it will fall.

This doesn't mean that husband and wife agree on everything. There will be times when you just completely disagree. That does not mean that you can not be united.

To give an example from our own family, we have learned as a blended family that the show of solidarity is more important now than ever. We (Jeff and I) have to be on the same page with the kids. If not what ends up happening is the comedic "go ask your mother/go ask your father" and the children end up playing the game until they get the answer they want.

As parents, we have to communicate with each other so that we know what is going on with each child. We have to be on the same page and we have to show a united front. If there are disagreements, they are behind closed doors away from the kids.

As spouses, this comes into the "unequally yoked" clause. (2 Corinthians 6:14) The scripture specifies believers and unbelievers should not be yoked together. (married) I have also seen this scripture used in terms of the spouses have to be on the same page. It is difficult for people of different denominations to come together in agreement. I am not saying that it can not be done. I am saying that before one marries, there needs to be communication and understanding. Marriage is not to be taken lightly.

If you find yourself in marriage where you and your spouse are "divided", pray. Pray for the Lord to bring you the wisdom you need, pray for the Lord to open the eyes of your spouse. And most importantly, be open to what the Lord brings to you when you pray. Be willing to change yourself.

Marriage Monday

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 09:59:00 PDT

Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies. The heart of her husband safely trusts her; so he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life.

Proverbs 31:10-12

Powerful scripture, this passage is. Do you and your spouse have a relationship where you fully trust each other? Do you really trust each other?

There is an old Bryan Adams song entitled "(Everything I Do) I Do It For You". In that song it goes on to say they die for you, they'd walk the world for you, everything they do, they do it for you. That is quite a commitment! Could you imagine loving your spouse so much that everything you did would be for them? Or, can you imagine your spouse doing everything they did for you?

The scripture above describes how a virtuous wife does her husband good all the days of her life. She never has ill will towards him, never does anything that is malicious towards him. The wonderful thing about this is that when a wife shows no evil towards her husband, he holds that in his heart and develops a magnificent trust in her.

For the husband, knowing that his wife will always back him up and always be there for him, that empowers him to be able to do what is needed for the family. It can be as simple as the husband works his 40 hours and has the trust that things are taken care of at home. It can also be that husband and wife share tasks around the home and both bring in income. It's not a matter of who brings in the money and who keeps things in order, it's a matter of trust between the spouses that is gets done.

It's Different

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 06:43:05 PDT

Being a Christian Parent is more different than not. This is mostly obvious right?

In our family’s experience we discover that our values are looked at as being old-fashioned or over-protective. Does this stop us from proceeding to strive at raising a godly family? No.

“Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” - Romans 12:2 NLT

As Christians we are told to no conform to the customs of the world, so why would that be different as parents?

We will be different from those that are not Christ followers. We will have different values and different morals. Even within Christian circles there will be differences. This is where it becomes important to teach biblical truths.

One family may ban TV completely from their home due to the negative influences and another may just limit what is allowed to be watched. One family may ban all secular music and another may ban all music that isn’t approved by the parents first. There are extremes and I can’t tell you if they are right or wrong. What I can say is that if you take a stand with your children; make sure you have a Biblical stance that cannot be twisted.

And The Winner Is...

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 10:23:15 PDT

The winner of the Personalized Bible Giveaway is Jen.

I apologize for the late announcement, our internet was down.

Thank you to BibleCo for Sponsoring this Giveaway.

Thinking About… the broken.

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 09:48:48 PDT

In Church service Sunday, several ladies spoke about the women’s conference they attended this past week. It was a tremendous blessing to all, even if they had to demand to be blessed by God. (Those who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength.)

In the service there was testimony of how the Lord corrected their vision of themselves, that each and every one of us is beautiful inside and out. There were those that were stirred to seek God daily instead of only during the tough times. Countless stories of how God touched these women in different ways. And then, there was one testimony that literally screamed out to my heart.

The testimony was how this woman was abandoned by her mother at the age of 5, and she didn’t know the Lord until she was an adult. Because of the loss of the relationship with her mother, she had difficulty in many relationships including with God. When a child is abandoned by a parent, regardless if there is just cause or not, they are flooded with so many different emotions. This woman had her eyes opened and her heart healed, but my focus turned to a young teen I know that hurts because of her loss of a parent.

The Lord opened my eyes that because we have free will, none can be forced to accept God’s love. The testimony has renewed my resolve for praying for this specific teen, but also making sure I let God’s love be shown through me.

What it all boils down to is that God is there for us, we merely have to accept His help.

“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:” Matthew 7:7 (KJV)

All we have to do is ask God for what we need and it will be given to us. If we need to be loved, we should turn to the Lord and accept the love from Him that He freely gives. In my simple thinking, I can’t imagine why anybody would turn their back on love.

Relationships in the Home - God

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 13:05:05 PDT

In a Christian home the most important relationship is the family's relationship with God. It is extremely important that the family is rooted in the Word of God.

Ways to make sure your family is in the Word can consist of family devotions and individual Bible study. There are several devotional studies out there that are focused on family. There area also individual Bible studies that parents can tailor to the children. This works wonderfully if there is a large age difference in the children.

Another option to get in the word and stay in the word is to read the Bible. There are schedules available online and in bookstores that allow for you to read the Bible in 90 days, a year, or even two years. This works well for budget conscience families that just need their Bible instead of purchasing another book.

By focusing on God's Word and storing it in your heart, it gives your family understanding. Then praying together and talking to God teaches your family that the relationship is not just one way.

The children in the home learn from the relationship the parents have with God. Knowing this parents in a Christian home need to make sure at the minimum that their children see that they are in the Word and that they pray.

Bible Reading Plans from Zondervan

Search Amazon.com for devotions for families

Personalized Bible Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 10:24:50 PDT

This GiveAway is now closed. The Winner was announced here.

BibleCo is a new resource for those looking for Christian gifts, Bibles, decorations, and books. The offer custom imprinting and free shipping on orders over $100.

BibleCo is sponsoring a giveaway of one Bible.

In preparation of this giveaway, they sent me one with custom imprinting to review.

This is the Pink and Brown Personalized NIV Bible. The cover is soft and the duo-tone color is a modern decoration. The Bible has silver edging on the pages and the words of Christ are in red.

I am very pleased with the imprinting. It is in silver Script. And the delivery was quick. (It ended up sitting in the P.O. Box over the weekend because we thought it would take longer)

The size of this Bible is perfect for a child or a college student. It is small enough to fit in a backpack and large enough to not lose it. In fact, I personally will be keeping it in my backpack while I take my college classes on campus this fall.

(This giveaway is open to the U.S. & over 18)

Main Entry - Visit BibleCo. Then in a comment below tell us which Bible you would like if you were to win our giveaway. The Pink and Brown in this review, or the Brown and Blue.

You can get extra entries by doing any or all of the below. Each entry needs to be a separate comment.

1 Extra Entry - Follow my blog and let me know in a separate comment.
1 Extra Entry - Subscribe to my RSS feed and let me know in a separate comment.
1 Extra Entry - Tweet this post and let me know in a separate comment.
5 Extra Entry - Write a post on your blog linking to my blog, and let me know in a separate comment

Contest Ends July 15th

And the Winner is...

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 08:53:38 PDT

Congratulations to Marci J, Shirley and Christie!

You are the winners of the Nikki & Babs: Dos and Doubts DVD giveaway!

If you missed your chance to win one of the DVDs we were giving away you can order one from Amazon.com

Many thanks to CloudTen Pictures for sponsoring the giveaway.

Original review is at Nikki & Babs: Dos & Doubts Review & Giveaway

That House on a Rock? or Sand?

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:57:35 PDT

Those that grew up in church remember the story right? You know, the one about the wise man that built his house upon the rock while the other guy built it on the sand. The rains came down and washed the house on the sand away while the house on the rock stood strong.

I know that story can have a different meaning for people in the area I live in having had a 500 year flood in middle and west Tennessee at the beginning of March. Also, those in other areas that have flooded that don't normally. I am going to focus on how the parable relates to our families though, from a spiritual sense.

Matthew 7:24-27 (NKJV)
²⁴ “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: ²⁵ and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.
²⁶ “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: ²⁷ and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.”

While we are raising our children and making sure they become well rounded individuals with good self esteem, are we missing something? The wise man and the foolish man both built a house. I am sure they both took great pride in their work and did the best that they could. The difference though was the foundation.

It's easy to get caught up in our children's development and activities. There is academics that they have to do, sports and extra curricular activities. Then if you are active in your community and church there are other distractions. The question comes down to, are the children learning about Jesus?

Academics, sports, community involvement, volunteering, obligations are church, are all wonderful things to do. The thing is, if the focus isn't on Jesus, then it is all for naught.

Jesus is to be our foundation, or the corner stone in the foundation. Jesus is key because without Him, nothing else matters.

As parents raising our children and families to love the Lord, before we do anything else, we have to have a firm foundation in the Lord.

Nurture and Admonition

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 10:26:10 PDT

Bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. - Ephesians 6:4 (KJV)

When we nurture our children we not only feed and protect them, but we also support and encourage them while training them what is right and wrong. How we nurture them of the Lord is training our children in the ways of the Lord. By teaching our children the Ten Commandments and teaching them that God is love, we nurture them to love God.

By bringing our children up in the admonition of the Lord, we teach them that not only is God love, but also that God does allow bad things to happen. This may not be a favorite thought, but it does happen and both adults and children have to be able to accept it. There will always be consequences for actions.

In society, there are many that do not accept cause and effect. We as adults, as children, as people, have to accept that for every action there is another action. We can’t blame God for the bad things that happen in our lives and the lives around us. If a person decides to get drunk and then behind the wheel, that is their own free will. When that person is in an accident, it is the effect of them doing something dangerous and not thinking of others.

With our children we can show this on a daily basis. If they do as they are told and are obedient then they can play outside or make a craft or something. Where if they aren’t obedient, then they don’t get to go and play until the chore is completed. The best way to teach this premise is to be hands on.

When the parent shows the discipline of studying God’s Word and doing chores, and being love, the children pick up on it. Children learn best by example. So in order to “bring them up in nurture and admonition of the Lord” we, as parents, have to do what we ask of our children. If we are teaching them to be in God’s Word, then we ourselves have to be also. If we are teaching them obedience, then we have to be obedient to. If we are teaching them to respect authority, then we ourselves have to respect authority. If we do not respect God, how can we expect our children too?

So the gist through my understanding is that we have to learn to show love, to our families and to those around us. Nurturing God's love into our children will teach them love and teaching them up with admonition will teach them respect and understanding there is consequences.

Being Chosen

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 20:04:35 PDT

In celebrating Father's Day our family is reminded of the challenges that we face regularly. For those that don't know, our family is a blended family. Sometimes we have to remind ourselves, like around family oriented holidays and celebrations.

We have learned over the last seven years however, that it is best to focus on the good instead of the bad. While all of our children have their biological parents, four of the six have extra parents too. They have adults that chose to be in their lives and to be a part of their life.

When I think of it that way, it reminds me of Joseph. Joseph, husband of Mary, has got to be one of the most famous step parents in the Bible. Yet, many people don’t connect him to Jesus as his stepfather.

Joseph could have done things differently when he found out that Mary was with child. He could have had her put to death, which was and is custom in the region. He could have divorced her and sent her away, which is what he was planning on doing. Then, God informed Joseph that the child Mary was carrying was His son. (Matthew 1:18-24) Joseph could have still divorced Mary, but there would have been heavenly intervention. (At least that is my belief.) Even, after taking Mary as his wife, Joseph could have treated Jesus differently from his other children that they had later. There is no evidence to support or deny this in the canonized Bible, although what little it does say may be enough to form an opinion. As was custom, Joseph taught Jesus his trade. He trained Jesus how to be a carpenter. (Matthew 13:55, Mark 6:3)

The one thing that strikes me with the most inspiration and hope in being a parent and in being a step parent is that even Jesus’ parents had a handful when he was entering those teenaged years. Can you imagine, your child missing and after three days you finally find them and ask what they were thinking and you get this answer?

"Why were you searching for me?" he asked. "Didn't you know I had to be in my Father's house?" (Luke 2:49 NIV)

Joseph and Mary didn’t know how to answer him. I know I feel that way at times. This shows me though that Joseph had to be a strong Father, he knew who his son was and accepted the blessing that God gave him by allowing him to raise Jesus. I also love how Luke went on to say that they went home and Jesus was obedient to them.

This is how, even at the difficult and crazy times we focus on loving our children. Because even though our children are not “holy”, they are blessings that God has given us.

Love your children. Look for the blessing in all things.

Nikki & Babs: Dos & Doubts - Review & Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 08:48:09 PDT

The GiveAway is Now CLOSED. Winners were announced here.

I just had the pleasure of viewing a new series that is targeted to teen girls. When I heard about it initially, I was excited. I am always looking for something to help with our girls. You know, that will reinforce what we have already taught them.

On this DVD there are 5 episodes that are about 15 minutes each. Each episode has a theme, a biblical basis, and plenty of comedic interjection. This series is brought to DVD by Cloud Ten Pictures and Sonlight Pictures.

As a parent: This DVD is great to use for family devotions or even as just individual devotions. Every episode has a strong biblical influence and a realistic situation. I can even see this being used in a Sunday School class or a teen girl ministry.

The chemistry between the two teen girls, Nikki and Babs, is amazing. The conflict between the conservative and reserved Nikki with the energetic and bubbly Babs makes for an interesting match. The cousins end up becoming best friends through a summer of trials. The series shows how the girls grow as people and more importantly, how they grow spiritually.

The episodes and themes are :

Judgment Day - Nikki gets a lesson about judging others.
Idle Worship - Babs learns the problem with putting a person on a pedestal.
A Difficult Thing - Babs makes a sacrifice for Nikki's happiness.
Y-N-V - Jealousy abounds when the girls interview for the same job.
Vanity Share - Church Talent Show or Beauty Pageant?

From our 15yo girl: I believe that this DVD will help teen Christian girls like myself learn more about relying on God. As I watched the episodes on this DVD I realized that it points out a few things we might do, like judging others. I am hopeful that this video will encourage other teen girls to do more right than wrong and help them on their journey with God.

Cloud Ten Pictures has graciously given Parents For Christ three copies of Nikki and Babs: Dos and Doubts to giveaway in order to promote the fresh release of the DVD. All you have to do is enter to win!

(You must be 18 and a United States Resident)

Main Entry - Tell me why you would like to win a copy of Nikki and Babs: Dos and Doubts. Entry must include email or have email listed in your Blogger Profile.

You can get extra entries by doing any or all of the below. Each entry needs to be a separate comment.

1 Extra Entry - Follow my blog and let me know in a separate comment.
1 Extra Entry - Subscribe to my RSS feed and let me know in a separate comment.
1 Extra Entry - Tweet this post and let me know in a separate comment.
5 Extra Entry - Write a post on your blog linking to my blog, and let me know in a separate comment

And if you would rather just buy a copy of the DVD, click on the Amazon link in the side column. God Bless!

Giveaway ends July 4, 2010

*updated June 19, 2010

Thinking About Dad

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 07:58:59 PDT

As Father's Day is getting closer it brings us to thinking about our dads. For those that are blessed, they have wonderful memories of their dad while they were growing up. Playing catch, going fishing, sitting with him while watching tv or reading...

Being a dad isn't always the easiest thing though. In the Bible, fathers are warned,

"Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in training and admonition of the Lord." Ephesians 6:4

While the warning itself is very important, we are not to be unreasonably severe or are we to ridicule our children. This is said to the father because in a Biblical home, the father is the head of the house. Let's focus on what fathers are suppose to do. Dad is to train the children in the ways of the Lord.

In Deuteronomy 6:7 we are instructed to "teach them[commandments] diligently to your children and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up."

As fathers and parents, we are to be continually teaching our children of God. Teaching what He has done, sharing the promises of what is to come and pointing out God's influence all around us.

This isn't to say if you haven't been focusing on God through your parenting journey that you are a failure, start now. Next time you are outside with the kids point out God's creation. Start a family Bible study. Get involved in a Bible believing church.

And for those whose fathers were absent in their lives, whether they were raised by a single mom, an orphan, or had an absentee dad; God loves you and He is there for you.

"When my father and mother forsake me, then the Lord will take care of me." Psalm 27:10

I pray that you all have a blessed Father's Day weekend. Make it memorable. And feel free to share positive memories of your dad from your childhood.

A favorite memory of mine with my dad is working on my car together, or our old truck. I suppose it would just be working on the cars together. For the fact that I was interested in working on the vehicle with him made him happy, and my frugally minded pocketbook was all for fixing it myself. Dad taught me to not be afraid to try. Doing a tune up, or replacing the timing belt, we may have butted heads a bit, but it also gave us a connection. He was rather impressed on a fix I did one day because I got stuck in first gear and couldn't get the car to shift. I was able to do it because of the confidence he gave me. Love you dad!

Coming Soon... for Teens

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 13:57:54 PDT

I am so excited. In my hands is a soon to be reviewed teen series from Cloud Ten Pictures.

You might ask why am I excited about a video series, I can answer that one. As a mom to two teen-aged girls and one tween almost teen girl, I have had a hard time getting through to them. This series as I have read up on it and am getting ready to watch it gives me an addition to my teen girl arsenol.

I am hopeful in getting this watched tonight or tomorrow, and then having my girls (at least one of them) watch it too. The review will be from both me as parent, and them as teen. Be on the look out!

:-)

God's Will vs Parent's Will

noreply@blogger.com (the Johnson Family) — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 10:28:34 PDT

Naturally parents want their children to succeed and be honored in life. In some circumstances this can be dangerous. Just as we, as parents and Christians, are to be in God’s will, so are our children.

James and John’s mother is a great example of this. She wanted her sons to bestowed honor and power for their reward of following Christ. But God had different intentions for them. (see Matthew 20:20)

Instead of pushing our children to become great leaders or powerful people, we need to teach them to follow God’s will. To do as God wants them to do.

We are told to ‘train’ our children to follow God. This is so that they can learn by our example. When a person is trained, they are shown how. (see Proverbs 22:6)

By keeping God first in our life and living in His will, we teach our children how they are to be.

We gain insight and wisdom as we live in His will. As we stay in counsel with the Father, he instructs us, as we need to be instructed. This is very much like as a parent to a child. Parents should keep communication open with their children. (see Psalm 16:7-8)

The Lord will teach us his will; we just have to make sure we listen to his instruction. When seeking God’s will we should:

Make sure your plan is in harmony with God’s Word
Ask mature Christians for advice
Check your motives – are you doing this for the Lord or yourself?
Pray, so that God will open and close doors for you, as he desires.

As we are in God’s will not only do we listen but we also pray. We pray to give thanks, to worship, to pray for others, and to pray for ourselves.

The Father knows exactly what we need and desire. He will always provide our needs. Even when we are going through tough times, the Lord knows what we can handle and equips us with what we need. We just have to open our ‘eyes’ to see. (see Matthew 6:8-13)

We must have faith and confidence in the Lord. This is both for our children and ourselves. As our children get older and hear God’s call, we may not like what they are called to very much. We must remember though that God is in control. (see 1 John 5:14-15)

Some may wonder exactly what our true purpose is.

Just as Jesus, we are to work with God. Our purpose is to do the will of God, not satisfying human desires.
But what does doing God’s will bring my child or me? (see John 6:37-38)

If we patiently and persistently do God’s will, we will find eternal life. (see Romans 2:7)

But I thought Salvation was by faith alone [Romans 1:16,17]?

In being fully committed to God, we will want to please him and do his will. Good deeds are a response to His grace and our faith.

Originally Posted: 26-Apr-2005