Making a Difference

Books are a powerful influence. In my book, "Biff and Becka's Springtime Adventures", the main character, Biff, tries to find the courage to tell his parents what's bothering him. One grandmother told me that her (middle school-age) granddaughter read my book, and just recently is opening up to her mother with her feelings.  That's the kind of fruit I love to see!

Parents and especially grandparents are deeply concerned about the children of today.   They are concerned about the content and values portrayed in movies, TV programs, video games and secular music.  Not to mention the influence of their peers in school and their neighborhood.  The threat of popular opinion, vulgar language, rude and violent behavior, experimenting with drugs and alcohol or cigarettes, sexual promiscuity, etc, can leave one exhausted when trying to combat such threats on their own.

I remember how at Salisbury Elk-Lick High School we had Bible reading and prayer every morning.  Students took turns reading a passage of their choice, and then we prayed the Lord's Prayer together.  We also saluted our flag each morning.  Somehow hearing God's Word read out loud in those classrooms seemed to carry a deterrent to bad behavior.  I seldom heard a curse word, and never heard of drugs or alcohol; they may have been there, but not to my knowledge.  The biggest shocker of a school in the '60's was to hear of a girl getting pregnant and not finishing high school.  Even that was extremely rare. 

Today's parents must also bear a large part of the blame for their children being out of control.  How can kids say "no" to drugs and alcohol when they see the parents do them at home?  Why should they?  The values parents teach them have the biggest influence on a child's life -- even more so than their peers.

What can a parent or grandparent do in keeping or reclaiming their children and grandchildren for the kingdom of God?  First of all, you must have a sure foundation yourself based on God's Word.  Have saving faith in Christ Jesus the Lord for yourself.  Second, find promises in God's Word and begin to read, believe, and declare God's Word as the truth over your children.  No matter what you see, hear, or feel, believe God's Word instead of the situation.  Faith in God is the victory.  Worrying over your child closes off God's pipe of grace flowing to him.  God tells us not to worry, because He has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (mental poise).  (2 Timothy 1:7) Resting in His promises is faith in action.  And third, love that child in a way he/she preceives love.  Don't be harsh or condemning; speak the truth in love.  Ask God to help you show His love to your children.  Talk to God about your parenting; He's one too, you know, and His family is VERY large. :o)

I believe God has begun to send revival to us and especially to the young generation.  I've been so encouraged to hear reports of God using children even 3 or 4 years of age to heal the sick and do miracles in Jesus' Name.  I too feel God's call to the younger generation; I began to feel this urge inside me to write good, solid, worthwhile literature of lasting value for our young children.  Fairy tales won't do.

Here is a wonderful resource for you to encourage you and teach you what to do about your children:  http://www.savedhealed.com/childrenscriptures.htm

We are in a spiritual battle here on earth as satan tries to make Christ's victory over him of no effect in us and our children.  You are called to make a difference, too.  Be blessed and encouraged today!

"The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever."  Isaiah 40:8

P.S.  Please visit my website at www.elaineandfriends.com and order one or several copies of my book for that young child in your life.

Copyright © 2012 Elaine Beachy