One Word for Families - February

“We live and breathe words.”

― Cassandra Clare, Clockwork Prince

Words are powerful. As families this year, let’s be intentional each month with a new word for our focus. These ‘words for families’ posts will be a monthly journey in 2016. Join us.

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The word SHOW came to me while reading John 15:8. It reads, “This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.” This verse wraps up a section where John uses a grapevine to describe being connected to Jesus. When we remain connected to the vine (Jesus) we will grow a lot of fruit. When we grow fruit, it shows others we are connected to Him.

When we find something important, we are connected to it. We know a lot about it and others can tell we find it important. This month, lets practice being intentional with showing our kids when something is important to us. And, in turn, helping them show when something is important to them.

This might start or end with a new realization of what really is important in our lives and perhaps changing some priorities. For now, let’s start with showing the importance of God.

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Action ideas:

1. Choose four family verses for the month. They can have the word SHOW or not. Write them down and stick them on walls around the house…new places…mirrors, doors, laundry room, closets, over beds. Type and print them for the fronts of each child’s folders.

2. Places. Be intentional about going places the family can learn about God. Go to church, even when it is raining, even when the soccer game begins an hour later, even when it’s late at night – tell the kids its important and then ask them to tell you something new they learned about God.

3. Point God out. Notice Him and SHOW what you notice to your kids. Then let them practice too. Challenge them to tell two other people where they noticed God or even where you noticed God – ask them later to tell you that story.

4. Carry your bible everywhere you go. Not your phone with a bible app, but your actual Bible. See if your kids notice. If they say anything, respond with ‘God is important.’

Any other ideas? Please share if your family does something different or if any of these things develop into stories!