Jan 10

Jan 10 Keep Eternity Before the Children {a kid's Bible study for the New Year}

Several years ago, my husband, Patrick started writing a bible study for kids that now has reached into thousands of homes and families. Today I have asked him to share with you why keeping eternity before our children is so important and how we can best do that as moms.....

“Keep eternity before the children.”

The word “keep,” says a lot doesn’t it? My wife convinced me recently that an elliptical is much better for me than running. So we bought a used machine from some friends and put it in our finished attic. Honestly, the first time I used it I thought I was going to have to crawl downstairs for help! My encouragement? “Keep” going – you will live! It was hardly comforting, but wise advice.

To “keep” anything, whether it is a garden, clean room, or exercise program, requires that we continue – we persist, maintain, or stay the course. It’s easy in marriage and parenting to get interrupted, distracted, busy, or just plain old exhausted. And so sometimes we give up on doing what is most important – we stop “keeping.” But what are we supposed to “keep?"

“Keep eternity before the children.”

These were the parting words of Dallas Willard’s mother. He was just two years old when she died. And so with what final words, strength, and wisdom she had – she reminded her husband of what was most important to “keep.”

Keep God at the center. Continue passing on the truth of God’s Word. Stay the course. Keep pursuing Jesus. “Keep eternity before the children.”

God gives this enormous and joyous responsibility to parents.

In the middle of the messiness of marriage and family, God works through us by his grace to help pass on faith to the next generation.

The Bible reveals a family where both mom and dad are actively involved in teaching, shaping, and caring for the many needs that arise when kids are in the mix. Consider the following passages of Scripture:

“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” (Exodus 20:12)
“My son, keep your father’s commandand do not forsake your mother’s teaching.” (Proverbs 6:20)
“Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.” (Colossians 3:21)
“Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4)
“I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” (2 Timothy 1:5) (See 2 Timothy 3:15)

George Barna’s book, Revolutionary Parenting reminds us “to see the bigger picture of God’s priorities and raise our children in light of His standards, not ours or society’s.” We need to “keep” what is most important before our families. So how do we do that? What are some simple ways every parent can “keep eternity” in clear view of their children?

We start by helping our kids know and love Jesus through the Bible.

I am convinced that most parents want to pass on faith. They really do want to see their kids grow up and make an impact on their world. One of the tools we have used as a family is a resource I created several years ago called, The Dig for Kids. This week, we are launching a brand new volume – a topical study through the book of Proverbs!

The book of Proverbs is full of practical wisdom for everyday living. And so parents and children will study through topics such as the tongue, controlling emotions, choosing friendships, work that honors God, and more.

My prayer is that it would be a blessing to you and your family and it would help you “keep eternity before your children.”