“And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell.” –  James 3:6 (NKJV) How easy it is to forget that children are listening when we are talking informally.  Why is it that adults will talk about children while they are nearby and act as though they think the children aren’t hearing what they say?  “He’s having a hard time with school.  I just wish he … [Read more...]

“And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.”  – Luke 2:52 (NKJV) We’ve heard the saying, “If it is to be, it’s up to me”.  For years, most parents in our country have watched the school bus drive away with their children feeling that the school would take care of their learning, exercise, and even their social life as they met other children. Then, perhaps, both father and mother would drive off to their jobs feeling like they had done their duty by their … [Read more...]

“The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.” – Proverbs 29:15 (KJV) Some folks would have us feel guilty for correcting children. Actually, those who do not correct children should be the ones to feel guilty. It is so sad to see children “at loose ends” not knowing what is right and what is wrong.  They are so confused! How can they ever feel good knowing they have done the right thing if they don’t know what the right thing is? Children need … [Read more...]

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 (KJV) As we listen to the news each day, we can easily see that our children have missed out on much of their education this past year due to the Coronavirus.  As parents, grandparents, and others, we need to do all we can to help make up for what they may have missed. There are many things we can do at home to help our children learn the things they need … [Read more...]

“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...]