When the disciples returned after Jesus had sent them out two by two they were rejoicing. Why? They saw the power of God at work. It would have been very exciting indeed. “And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name” (Luke 10:17).

When your children look at your family do they have reason to rejoice? If not, why not? Is it because they don’t see the power of the Lord Jesus at work? Might Jesus say to us what He said to the Sadducees – “. . . Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God” (Matthew 22:29)?

To see God at work in lives is very exciting and motivating. As family members see God at work in lives, it encourages them in their faith. Notice how in His rebuke, Jesus first referred to the Sadducees’ knowledge of Scripture. What place does the Bible have in our homes and lives? Are we feeding on it ourselves and feeding our family the Word of God daily? I am shocked and grieved over how few families are in the Word daily, individually, and then again as a family.

Everyone loves to be part of a successful endeavor where exciting things are happening. We aren’t perfect now nor ever will be, but I love the direction my family is heading. It gets me excited and energized because I see the power of God at work and motivating my family.

Steve

1                      32                              32,768

The best place to train children is the best place to train parents – the home. The same skills a dad needs to lead his family are what make him valuable in the workplace, either as an employer or employee. As we strive to grow and are vulnerable before our family, we set the example and atmosphere for our children.

Since none of us has “arrived,” the question is: How much effort are we putting into improving in the following areas?

• being a servant leader
• being diligent in every area
• caring deeply for those who follow us
• focusing on the important more than the urgent
• aiming for integrity
• deepening our skills
• committing to the Lord Jesus no matter what
• striving to excel in our communication skills
• seeking to be winsome, kind, gentle, and loving

There is so much room to grow and so little time. We must surrender to Jesus Christ in all areas. “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen” (2 Peter 3:18).

Steve

1                                 16                                     4,096

Have you ever bought anything in response to unsolicited e-mail? I sure haven’t, but someone must have, or they wouldn’t continue sending it. Isn’t it amazing how relentlessly persistent they are? They don’t give up.

When it comes to raising children who will love and serve the Lord Jesus, do we keep at it – no matter what – or do we give up? Unlike many online sales campaigns, raising our children in the Lord is a worthwhile endeavor, but how engaged are we? Are we as persistent as those who send out unsolicited e-mails? Do we give it our all? “Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father” (1 Thessalonians 1:3).

Steve

Please come be encouraged at an Energize conference this fall trip!!

1                         8                            512

What is the number one desire of your heart? Oh that for each of us it would be, “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death” (Philippians 3:10).

Steve

1                          4                         64