Build a Strong Family - Monday
Today’s Verse
Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it. (ESV)
On Sunday, Scott shared how “a strong church family has all the marks of a strong family.” This made me reflect: what makes someone strong?
To grow physically stronger, a person needs to establish a consistent exercise routine, eat a healthy diet, find a supportive community, (hopefully) achieve their goal, and then use their knowledge and experience to help others do the same.
So what about growing spiritually strong? Can we apply these same principles to growing a spiritually strong family? I am glad you asked, because the answer is YES! Today’s verse reminds us that God commands us to “train” others (and specifically children) in their faith.
I have learned that the first part of training is establishing a consistent schedule. Just as a coach wouldn’t send his prizefighter into a boxing match without proper training, parents shouldn’t send their children out into the world without spiritual training.
Lucky for us, Southland has a wonderful Children’s Ministry (birth - 5th grade)! This provides a place where kids can learn the Word of God through age-appropriate stories, worship God with songs of praise, and hide God’s Word in their hearts by memorizing Scripture. Consistently attending church provides our children with a firm foundation to stand on when they face spiritual battles for their hearts and minds.
The same is true for the “big kids” too. Students and adults can learn through our pastor’s sermons, worship our God through songs of praise, and find comfort and encouragement through corporate prayer.
Tomorrow, we will tackle principle #2, having a healthy (spiritual) diet. In the meantime, I invite you to make a plan to attend church on Sunday. We have a place for everyone to join us and start their “training.”
REFLECTION
Whether you are new to Southland or searching for a community that feels like home, we would love to connect with you and help plan your visit. Hope to see you Sunday!