My first children’s book is coming out soon, and to get you ready for it, I have listed five simple ways kids can shine their light. It’s a simple practice, and it’s probably something they are already doing. I hope that its practicality encourages you. Stay tuned for more blog posts with sneak peeks and more info! I’m so excited for this book to be released!
Obedience
When we talk about obedience, we remind Quinn that it’s best when she obeys the first time. It’s the same for us when we follow God the first time; the torment and suffering that would be there if we disobeyed aren’t there. Being obedient with a joyful heart is also essential. When we are joyful in our obedience, it shows that our hearts are like Christ’s. Even when we don’t want to make our bed or do the dishes, it’s important to do so without grumbling.
Responsibility
Helping Quinn establish a routine before school has been so vital for her. Every morning, Quinn has a list of quick, age-appropriate chores she needs to complete before she can play after school. I encourage her to do this list before we leave for school, but we also stress that she can do them after school if she needs more sleep in the morning. This has really taught her the importance of responsibility. One of her chores is making her bed. It’s fun to walk by her room throughout the day and see what she came up with that morning. Sometimes it’s immaculate and simple. Other times, she has rows and rows of stuffed animals lining her bed. It also gives her something to feel good about at the start of her day. It’s an accomplishment, and let’s be honest, it feels so good and cozy to get into a made bed at bedtime.
Praying
Teaching our kids to talk to God early puts deposits into their soul bank. By praying with them and for them, they learn how to speak to God. They also realize that it’s not all about them. Praying for others changes perspective. Even more important is teaching them how to listen to what the Holy Spirit tells them. As they grow up, depositing lessons into their soul bank will pay dividends in the future. I think it’s safe to say all kids go through an identity crisis in their pre-teen/teen years. They don’t know who they are, or they don’t know their purpose. We have been asking The Lord, “What do you want me to know? And what do you want me to do?” These questions provide the Holy Spirit with an opportunity to speak to you, teaching you to listen and hear His voice. Practicing hearing His truth has been monumental in our faith. He will tell you what he calls you. He will dismantle lies and false beliefs, replacing them with true ones.
Manners
Remembering to say “please” and “thank you” is vital for kids (and adults). Teaching kids to get into the habit of saying “please” and “thank you” from a young age will go a long way when they visit their grandparents’ house, friends’ houses, or school. Our friends were over recently, and we were sitting down to dinner. The dad who was over got water for his two-year-old, and immediately after being given her water, she said, “Thank you, dada.” It’s so sweet to hear, but more than that, it’s an outward expression of the gratitude in that person’s heart.
Patience
In our microwave culture, we could all use a bit more patience. In the book, the main character is depicted as waiting in line for the monkey bars at school. Patience is a character trait of God, and when we are patient, we reflect the heart of Christ. It’s easy to let our patience slip away when the school pickup line is terribly long or we have to wait for our little ones to use the bathroom yet again.