“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9 (NKJV) A good definition of grace is “unmerited favor”.  In other words, it is favor that we don’t deserve.  It seems that many are more than willing to accept God’s grace, but unwilling to show grace to others. We’ve probably all, at some time or another, received a gift at Christmas that deep down inside we really didn’t like.  At … [Read more...]

“Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.” (Psalm 105:1) Some have been saying, “Let’s hurry and get 2020 over.  It’s been a bad year!”  Perhaps we all need to think a little deeper and be realistic about the many blessings we have had in spite of the coronavirus.  When George Washington made the first proclamation for a day of Thanksgiving, they had much more than we have to deal with now. A good reason to study history is to help us realize our current blessings. Even in my … [Read more...]

“…bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.”  –Eph. 6:4 (NKJV) During the many years I have taught both children and adults, I have learned a few techniques that have worked for me.  Since so many are now teaching their children at home, perhaps sharing them would be helpful. Of course, every situation is unique.  However, I have found that the following worked for me: 1.)  Keep on a schedule.  Schedules give security and routines help in planning time. 2.) Questions work … [Read more...]

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. – Galatians 6:7 (NKJV) Children need to be instilled with the understanding that there are consequences for all actions.  It is so tempting to think, “Oh, isn’t that cute?  Who could punish a child for that?”  In reality, we are punishing children more when we let them grow up thinking they can get by with doing wrong things. My dad told me a story that is worth retelling. It seems that when my dad was … [Read more...]

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5,6 There are many wondering just what to do about the education of their children due to the turmoil produced by the coronavirus.  There seems to be no end to discussion as to what is best for both the students and teachers.  Perhaps the situation provides a good time to evaluate whether we should start home schooling those gifted … [Read more...]

And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted. Matthew 23:12 (NKJV) For several years now, we have been told by psychologists, educators, and others that we should praise children.  “It is good for their self esteem”, we have been told.  “It motivates children”, we have also been told.  It is true that praise, given when it is truly earned, can be beneficial.  However, when too much praise is given, or when praise is given undeservedly, it can also … [Read more...]

“…not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”  Hebrews 10:25 (NKJV) Will there ever be a better time to have family devotions?  The Bible tells us not to forsake getting together and it is not always possible to go to church.  When it is possible, of course, we should attend church.  Church, however, can never substitute for family devotions.  There is much value in setting a … [Read more...]

“A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, Loving favor rather than silver and gold. – Proverbs 22:1 (NKJV) We seldom think about children having a reputation, but they certainly do!  I clearly remember teachers talking about children during the years I taught in public school.  “I heard you got ____ this year!  Good luck!  He is really hard to handle!”  “________was always late for class!  Those parents always complained about the teacher.  They didn’t seem to do much to … [Read more...]

“It is more blessed to give than to receive.”  Acts 20:35 At Christmas time each year, thoughts turn to what we can give children to make them happy.  Actually, one of the best things we can give a child is the understanding of the joy of giving.  Children are often only recipients of gifts, but they need to learn that it is more blessed to give than to receive; otherwise, they will grow up thinking only of themselves. I learned the lesson of letting someone give, no matter how meager … [Read more...]