GOD'S CHILDREN

Christ Is Not Just the God of Adults But Also the God of Children

Children are an heritage of the Lord (Psalm 127:3a).  The definition for the word heritage:  (inheritance, property, possession) establishes that God is the creator of the reproduction process.  (Genesis 1:28a)

“and God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it;….”

In light of this passage of scripture we can firmly and confidently say that children are entrusted unto us by God, and we are therefore accountable unto him for their care.

NOTE:  The Scriptures:  “Children are an heritage of the Lord,” or “Blessed is the man who has his quiver full of them,” are never to indicate a lack of God’s blessing for those without natural born children.  That type of thinking, which unfortunately many people adopted down through the ages, blinded them from being free and open to receive from God those children He desired to put in their path.  So, whether nephews, nieces, orphans, students, or neighborhood children whom God allows to pass through the radar of our influence, all are to be considered an heritage of the Lord. 

It is our prayer therefore to be a positive and encouraging role model to help children reach their highest potential and goals in life.

What are God’s thoughts Regarding the Treatment and Guidance of Children?

In Mark chapter 10, we are given an illustration of how Jesus regards the guidance and treatment of children.  Beginning with verse 13 we find individuals bringing young children to Jesus.  When Jesus’ disciples saw this, they rebuked those who brought them.  But Jesus, displeased with their actions, says, “suffer (allow) little children to come unto me and forbid them not.”  In other words, he was telling them, don’t restrict or withhold children from becoming involved and acquainted with me.

The attitude of the disciples matches the attitudes of many people of our society today.  We have people who say:  It is wrong to teach children about God.  They say:  Children should make up their own minds.  Yet, those same people will take a newly planted young tree or plant and prop it up with stakes to ensure it grows straight and tall.  They wouldn’t dare allow it to grow on its own.

Following Are A Few Ideas To Implement To Help Aquaint Children With Jesus.

1. Have a Bible story school in your home or backyard.  You can incorporate arts and crafts.  Do arts and crafts first then tell a Bible story while the children enjoy a treat?
2. Have sewing or cooking classes and a Bible story at the end of each session.
3. In the evening, after the sun goes down, show a movie in the backyard and serve refreshments.
4. Tell a Bible story at bedtime or around the table at mealtime.
5. In this day and age we have Bible stories on videos, dvds, cds and cassettes.  These can be utilized as an afternoon matinee served with popcorn and soft drinks.  Videos, dvds, cds,  and cassettes can also be utilized at mealtimes.
6. I heard of a man who started a sidewalk Sunday school.  Perhaps a church could hold an outdoor Sunday school class in front of their Church (weather permitting) on Sunday mornings.  Flyers can be circulated, announcing the times and Sundays of the month outdoor classes will be held.  This may draw the child who does not attend Church.
7. Have a “Happy Birthday Jesus” skating party at the local skating rink during the Christmas Holiday season.  Invite groups such as Teen Challenge, etc.  Serve a well decorated cake with the words “Happy Birthday Jesus.”
   

Are There Benefits Derived In Teaching Children About Jesus?

Yes, in fact, in Proverbs 22:6, we are instructed to train up our children in the way that they should go that when they grow old they should not depart from it. 

There are two situations that come to mind that show the benefits derived because a child was taught about the things of God.   

The first situation is found in the Old Testament.

In 2 Kings 22:1-2 we are told of a young boy by the name of Josiah, who became a King at the age of 8 years old.  The scripture states that he did that which was right in the sight of the Lord and walked in all the ways of David.

Now, how do you suppose that happened?  You’re right!  He was taught about the ways of God, and he responded and walked (lived) according to that teaching. 

The other situation is found in the New Testament.   

In Mark 6:31-38 we are told of a situation that appeared unsolvable until a young boy parted with what he had, to make it possible for others to have.

Jesus and his disciples departed from the crowd to go into a desert place privately. But when the people saw him, they ran to follow him. When it was late (see verse 35) the disciples told Jesus to send the people away that they may go into the country and villages to buy themselves bread, “for they have nothing to eat.” (verse 36)

Jesus had the disciples go among the people to see how many loaves of bread there were.  Not a soul among the 5,000 plus individuals had any bread, except, a young boy who had five loaves of bread and two fish.  (see John 6:9)

This young boy’s relinquishment of what had been given unto him, for himself, was the means that Jesus used to feed the multitude.

This was a great benefit derived due to this child’s teaching about Jesus.

Matching Game 

(Match the character with the incident or place)

1.  Moses                   A.  Coat of Many Colors

2.  Noah                     B.  Sling

3.  Daniel                   C.  Fiery Furnace 

4.  Zaacheus               D.  Lion's Den

5.  David                    E.  Whale

6.  Shadrach               F.  Ark

7.  Jonah                    G.  Burning Bush

8.  Joseph                   H.  Sycamore Tree 

Inspirational Verse of the Week

Ephesians 3:17-21

so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.  And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.  Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!  Amen. 

Matching Game Answers

1.  G

2.  F

3.  D

4.  H

5.  B

6.  C

7.  E

8.  A