We started this week talking about how our prayers are like seeds we are planting in the lives of our children. Then we talked about how healthy communication can help us connect with them and grow those seeds. Then we talked about something even more powerful than words, living our Faith out in front of them. Today let’s remember that our words and actions are not the only ones influencing our youth. Mr Banks gives a humorous story about his brother in the chapter called, “Week 6 Just Say the Word.” Then he says, “Sometimes our kids trust the wrong people and it gets them in trouble.” (p74) Weeds can come as seeds too. We must keep our communication with our children open so that we will know who is planting what into their hearts. Their hearts are a garden where there may potentially grow a mixture of plants, flowers and weeds. But if we just let it grow without nurturing it, we can be sure weeds will take over and their lives will continue to move away from God. But thank God for God! As we pray for our children, God can pull up all those weeds and create a new, beautiful, holy garden in our prodigal.
When talking about the centurion who came to Jesus to heal his servant, Mr Banks says, “Jesus could do what He promised from a distance.” (p75) Our prayers connect God with our children, so even before they come to Him, even if they are refusing to come to Him, God can move their hearts and change their ways. Let’s end today with this wise author’s words: “Just a word from Him can change your prodigal’s life forever. What if we trust Jesus more, and believe that He is ‘able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine? (Ephesians 3:20)? What changes might occur in our child’s life as a result? One thing is certain: Jesus loves that kind of faith. And wouldn’t you love to amaze Jesus?” (p75)
Have a blessed Sunday, let’s go plant some good seeds of prayers and active Faith today…
2023’s Got A Minute? Book Club
January: The First & Best Book Ever: The Bible
February: Love Is In the Air: “The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts” by Gary Chapman
March: Spring Growth: “Secrets of the Vine” by Bruce Wilkinson
April: Living the Resurrected Life: “The Wonderful Spirit Filled Life” by Dr Charles Stanley
May: My Spiritual Mom: “Making Good Habits Breaking Bad Habits” by Joyce Meyer
June: Spiritual Dad: “It’s Not About Me- Rescue from the Life We Thought Would Make Us Happy” by Max Lucado
July: Financial Freedom “Complete Guide to Money” by Dave Ramsey
August: Summer’s Soul Restorer “A Shepherd Looks At Psalm 23” by W Phillip Keller
September: Covering Our Children: “Prayers for the Prodigals” by James Banks
<>< Peace, Diane
