Faith and Business 101: Choose Your Clients Wisely

I had a phone meeting this morning with a new client whose business is to organize other people’s lives! How great is that? However…I was a little nervous about taking this call because I had to preface the phone conversation with a warning and a disclaimer!

Here’s what happened:

I have a “mommy’s helper” that comes over for a few hours twice a week to play with my son while I work (she’s 11 and my son just loves her to death!). I try to schedule all of my important calls, writing projects, etc., during the hours that she is here and my son is happily occupied. However, my young friend’s family was ill this week so she didn’t come over this morning to entertain my son during this important phone meeting. On top of that, we are potty training so I really had to bare all to this new client that I have never talked to…all the while, praying that she would be understanding!

Thankfully, this woman had been through it all! She was positively understanding and didn’t mind one bit if I needed to hang up quickly to help my little guy jump up on his sesame street potty chair! We had a great conversation and I’m happy to say that we will start working together next week.

The reason I am telling you all of this is because I believe it is so important to choose your clients wisely! How different the outcome of this meeting could have been had I not been talking with another Christian mom!

You may not market primarily to the Christian community, but even so…I urge you to make sure that the people you work with are people of integrity!

Here’s what the Bible says:

Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.” 1 Corinthians 15:33 NKJV

He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm. Proverbs 13:20 NIV

Do not make friends with a hot-tempered man, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn his ways and get yourself ensnared. Proverbs 22:24-25 NIV

The people you work closest with should be positive, honest, hard-working people! Does this mean you should shut out everyone else? Certainly not! You want to love everyone that God puts in your path without discrimination or judgment. But the ones that are in your “inner circle,” the people who influence you, the ones you work with on a daily basis….choose those people wisely!

Your Faith & Business Assignment for this week: Pray for Godly colleagues, clients & customers! It’s amazing who God will put in your life at exactly the right time. Even when you’re potty training! :-)

Until Next Time…

MariLee

Copyright © MariLee Parrish, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Fellowship is Vital For All Ages

The previous winter storm had me confined to my home for a week, although I had a great time drinking hot chocolate and creating cozy memories with Anya, there was one thing that I dearly missed and that was fellowship with members of the church I attend. Fellowship is an integral part of a Christian’s life. Being able to praise, worship, and share your love of God with your brothers and sisters in Christ is inspiring and comforting. Some of my fondest childhood memories were attending church, especially on Wednesday night bible study, where the kids had their own area to read Bible stories and interact with one another. I got a strong sense of how special fellowship was when I witnessed the love, care, and friendship between members of the congregation. Fellowship isn’t only for adults it is for everyone including children. When you bring your children to church they have the opportunity to experience fellowship with the members of your church and with other children their age.

The reality is your children won’t always be surrounded by those who share the same values, morals, and beliefs. That is why fellowship at a young age is so important. When your children are in the world they are faced with worldly desires and temptations just as we are. The kids they go to school with may or may not have a spiritual background. Christian children can feel left out when they are in school or in peer situations because they are raised differently. This may be difficult for children especially teens who may feel excluded or like the odd ball out. Sunday school and youth groups are a wonderful avenue for youngsters to share their faith, honor God, and create meaningful relationships. They may be less likely to give into peer pressure and temptation when they have the support from friends who do share the same values.

In the Bible a recurring theme is how fellowship played a big role in the life of the disciples and believers of Christ. In chapter two of Acts, we’re told that all the Lord’s followers met together and shared everything they had. They met in the temple, broke bread together in different homes while sharing their food freely and supported one another. In Acts, chapter four when Peter and John returned from the Council, they went back to the people to pray together for courage. The Scriptures say that God greatly blessed his followers and no one went in need of anything. The impact of fellowship was spiritually powerful then and it is equally powerful now.

God gives us a gift when he gives us our clergy and our brothers and sisters. Instill in your children that they are given a gift when they develop relationships in Sunday school and in youth groups that can be long lasting and invaluable. Through fellowship we celebrate God and one another for being believers in Jesus Christ. When I was younger I recognized that church was a second home. It was a place where people felt safe and shared their love for their Savior, something that remained with me into adulthood.

Children who attend church have an awesome opportunity to have a support network and community that nurtures them. When they go to school and are faced with pressure, instead of looking and admiring the kids who are doing the wrong thing, they have access and are exposed to kids who are doing the right things and may even realize those are the really cool kids! It is vital that our children have a community of support, love, and guidance.

Foster the gift of fellowship by encouraging your children to:

  • Develop friendships that aren’t only nurtured on Sundays
  • Form bible studies
  • Organize social outings or if you have younger children be proactive in scheduling play dates
  • Invite friends from church over for dinner or special occasions
  • Create a peer support network where they can discuss issues they encounter in school

The disciples were blessed with the instruction of Christ and with being able to fellowship and share this knowledge with their fellow believers in Christ. They knew God wanted them to love one another and to be supportive of each other. They understood the power of prayer, praise, and true authentic friendship. In a world where temptation lurks around every corner, it is crucial for Christians of all ages to have fellowship with one another to share their love, strength, and faith in God.

Copyright © Chere Williams, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Faith and Business 101: The Mirror

Yesterday was kind of a depressing day for me. Maybe not so much depressing as it was overwhelming! Have you ever held the mirror up to your life and taken a good long look? I personally try to do this on a pretty regular basis. I meet with my accountability partner each week and she does a wonderful job of speaking truth into my life. And yet…I’ve recently recognized some giants in my life that I know I need to tackle. I see them clearly now.

Why am I writing about this in the “Faith & Business” section? Well, because the way I live my life affects my business. These issues I need to tackle keep me from being all God wants me to be. In life. In business. I have a hard time believing a person who says they can “check all their stuff at the door,” disconnect with their personal life, and be a great business leader. I have met a lot of great leaders in my life, and all of them have been real. Authentic. That’s the kind of leader that I respect. That’s the kind of leader that I can learn from. Someone who pretends like they have it all together doesn’t help me at all. Those people are frustrating, right? And they aren’t being honest with themselves.

Back to “The Mirror.” Yes, I’ve held it up and I see some ugly things. The problem? Where will I find the time and energy to do what needs done? I have been pondering these verses:

“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4: 12-13 NIV

First, I was just looking for verse 13. “I can do everything through HIM who gives me strength.” That is a famous, often quoted piece of scripture. The verse before it is not nearly as well-known. But I think its very important!

How can I be content in my current situation when I see such giant tasks ahead of me? Does this verse mean that I should just be lazy and content with where I am and do nothing? I don’t think so.

I think God is telling me not to beat myself up over the way things are. Yes, I’ve looked in the mirror and I know what needs to be done, but I’m not supposed to wallow in it. I have to DO something about it. With God’s help. I can do everything through His power and His strength. I can be content knowing that God will come along side me and help me conquer these giants.

What giants do you see in the mirror? Remember…

You can do everything with the power of Christ working through you!

Until Next Time…

MariLee

Copyright © MariLee Parrish, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Is it Expensive to Be Green?

This is a question many people have asked me and unfortunately the answer is not that easy. While, yes, to buy organic and items that are green can be quite costly, there are also many ways to be green that are very affordable. You do not need to spend a lot of money to be green. It simple requires a willingness to be a better steward of God’s planet and some creativity.

When I first decided that I wanted to be green, I was not swimming in the green…if ya know what I mean. LOL! However, I had a desire to be a better steward of the planet and I started to brainstorm. It helps me be more creative and I am forced to come up with cheap and free ways to be an environmentally minded person.

Yep, that’s all it takes, people. Willingness and effort.

Eco Tips to Get Your Started on the Greener…Cheaper Path

Recycle. most states have recycling programs and they provide the bins and pick up service for minimal cost. It is actually a part of your garbage bill…at least it is in my town. this ONE act can do a world of good for the environment!

Reuse. start thinking about ways that you can reuse the items you use every day.

Limit paper use. stop overusing paper towels and paper products like they are going out of style. make the most of everything and use it more then once. we have many paper tips here.

Stop wasting. waste is something anyone and everyone can stop doing. it is free and simply requires willingness.

These are just a few simple changes to get you started. If you implement even one of them, you are already making a difference!

Copyright © Lara Velez, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Easy Lunchboxes Review

Conceived by Kelly Lester, Easy Lunchboxes, will transform not only how you “do” lunch but how you think about lunch.  It is my honor to introduce you to this creative mom with a lovely spirit and a concept that not only is earth friendly but family friendly.   Please take the time to read all about Kelly in her bio!

What is Easy Lunchboxes? Easy Lunchboxes is a system that allows you to pack lunches quickly, easily with less packaging all while saving money and promoting healthy eating.  Seriously, it does all that!  The only thing this systems does not do is pack the lunch.  Sorry mom, that’s still your job.  However, with these cute containers, I’m sure your kids will love to help out.  Each single lid container has three compartments to house a lunch with plenty of space for a sandwich and two sides.  You can consult Easy Lunchboxes for some fun lunch ideas to keep your kids and you from getting lunch burnout.   Since the Easy Lunchboxes provide room for sides, you no longer have to buy prepackaged foods!

Easy Lunchboxes are affordable.  A set of four containers costs $13.95 and  a carrying case (which comes in a variety of colors) costs $7.95.  So for $21.90 you are done for the year…wait…you are just plain done with lunch.  The construction on the containers and the carrying case will last you for years to come.  How much are you spending now on plastic baggies and prepackaged foods?

Let’s talk carrying case.  The carrying case is the perfect size, and I don’t say that lightly.  My husband brings his lunch to work almost daily.  I try to stuff as much as I can in his little cooler.  Often his thermos or water bottle is left out because there is no room after filling his cooler up with his lunch.  The insulated, vinyl-free, carrying case from Easy Lunchboxes, is small enough to carry easily but big enough to house your entire lunch including thermos and ice packs.  In fact, I can fit two Easy Lunchboxes containers, a bottle of water and an ice pack!  Really.  Now, it might bit stuffed but it can be done.  To distinguish your lunch carrying case you can add a clip on or key ring decoration which you can easily change as often as you like.

I am giving this item highest marks on quality, efficiency, ease of use, usefulness, economical and earth friendly.

Copyright © Richele McFarlin, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Get Your Family Prepared For An Emergency

Old man winter refuses to leave my neighborhood! I live in the Maryland/ Washington, DC area which was clobbered with snow (28-30 inches!). The snow accumulation was unbelievable and we are still feeling the effects. Fortunately, my daughter and I were safe and warm. Unfortunately, many people in the area lost their power for days and are still struggling through some very cold nights. The snow storm that pounded the east coast was merciless and many families are still suffering the aftermath. Emergency preparedness is extremely important for your whole family. We can’t change the weather,  and emergency situations will happen, however, we can try to prepare for the worst. An emergency kit and plan is essential for every family.

Tips to prepare for an unexpected emergency

Don’t Go Hungry
If you know hazardous weather is coming most likely you are at the store waiting in a long line of irate and nervous people. Skip the grocery store and prepare ahead of time. Sure you still may need to pick up bread and milk, but think about food you can store for a long time without refrigeration in case you lose your electric. Get a stash of the following:

  • Peanut butter
  • Crackers
  • Fruit juice boxes
  • Bottled water is a must! Buy a separate supply of water to keep in the pantry or basement that will last for a few days for the entire family.
  • Protein bars
  • Nuts

If you have a baby always have an extra supply of baby food. Also keep a manual can opener and an insulated cooler on hand. If you have pets keep an extra bag of food available for them, after all they get hungry too! Make sure your food supply will last for 4-5 days. I know that may seem long, but our storm kept us indoors for a whole week!

Stay Warm
If you live in an area where winter storms are the norm than you know how quickly the power can go out. Have a supply of blankets and warm clothing ready. Have at least two blankets for each family member. Keep your windows and doors well insulated, if the heat goes out you need all the warmth you can get, don’t let extra cold air in.

Don’t Be Left In The Dark
When the electricity goes out there isn’t a whole lot we can do, but wait until it is restored. But we can be prepared by having the following:

  • Flashlights with extra batteries
  • Battery operated radio to get updates on the situation
  • Candles or flameless candles which may be safer if you have small children
  • A portable generator can be useful, but always use it outdoors away from doors and windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

First Aid Kits
The last thing you need in an emergency is another emergency! First Aid-Kits are a necessity in all homes. Here are a few essentials for your kit:

  • Latex or vinyl gloves
  • Sterile dressings
  • Antibiotic or burn ointment
  • Adhesive Bandages
  • Tape
  • Scissors
  • Aspirin
  • Thermometer
  • Gauze pads

Try to find a waterproof box to put the supplies in and keep it accessible for the whole family. Build your kit according to the needs of your family.

Emergency Plan
Every family should have an emergency plan. Make sure your family has an emergency exit route out of the home in case of a fire or other emergency. Practice at least twice a year to ensure that everyone knows what to do and where to meet. Keep emergency number in a visible area, own a fire extinguisher, and always check the batteries in the fire alarms in your house. Make sure each family member knows where the emergency kits, blankets, and supplies are located. Also check out the many websites on emergency preparedness for some great ideas.

Keeping our families safe is a big priority for all moms. External circumstances often can’t be controlled but we can control how we handle an unforeseen emergency. Make the best out of a bad situation, stay calm, and get in some family bonding time if you can and always pray! Surviving the blizzard of 2010 turned out not to be so bad, there was plenty of hot chocolate, movies, cookies, cupcakes, painting, reading, snuggling, and fun memories. Most importantly we were together and safe!

Copyright © Chere Williams, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Faith and Business 101: Stepping Out in Faith

“Now then, my sons, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways. Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not ignore it.” Proverbs 8:32-33

Is your year getting off to a great start? Are you pursuing the dreams that we wrote down not long ago? I know from experience that it takes a great amount of courage and faith to step out of the box you’ve been living in and pursue your God-given dreams!

Maybe you know exactly what you need to do, you’re just still afraid to do it? Maybe you’re afraid of what your friends and family might say. Maybe your dream means a big risk financially?

Whatever is holding you up in pursuing your dream, take it to the Lord and seek His face on the subject. Many times our instincts kick in on purpose to give us a gut-feeling of caution. Are you feeling that way? Ask God for clear guidance and direction. Then step out in faith and act on what God is tell you to do (or not do!).

A prayer I bring to the Lord often is… “Lord, would you open wide the doors that I’m supposed to walk through, and firmly close the others?”

He has answered that prayer for me countless times.

This prayer applies to any and all situations: starting out in business, current business, future business, daily life, family situations, ministry…you name it!

Again: … “Lord, would you open wide the doors that I’m supposed to walk through, and firmly close the others?”

Then, trust the answers that come! Some may be disappointing and some may be exciting! Some might cause anxiety and some might cause the good kind of “butterflies in the stomach.”

Whatever the answer and outcome, know this: When you step out in faith, God has you firmly in the palm of His hand. If a door that you’d hope to walk through has been shut, trust that God has a better plan for you. If a door has been opened that you are unsure of, trust that God will guide you along the way.

As a wise mentor used to tell me often “Where God guides, God provides!”

Until Next Time…

MariLee

Copyright © MariLee Parrish, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Green Start to Your Day

What better way to begin your day than Green? You can start your day glorifying God by taking care of what He placed in your hands…His planet. How?

Simple. Forget about the norm when you wake up each morning. Try waking up a little early and having a warm natural bubble bath. Light some candles and spend some time praying and giving your day to God. Taking baths helps save water verses a long shower.

No time for a bath, you say?

There are other ways you can save water and make your mornings greener…

1. Shorter Showers. Take 5 minute shower and work quickly to get the job done. This will save a lot of water every year.

2. Married? Consider showering with your better half. Not only will you save water…you will heat up your marriage as well!

3. Turn off water when shaving, brushing teeth, hands, etc. Avoid letting it just run down the drain as much as possible.

4. Keep Up with any leaks. If you notice a leak, in the morning, have it fixed before the day ends. Stopping leaks is a simple way to conserve water.

5. Low-flow shower heads and efficient water heaters are also great options to help cut your water usage drastically.

6. Buy a permanent razor versus disposable razors.

7. If you wear makeup, consider Eco-friendly products.

8. Clothing. Consider switching to natural organic fibers. This will take time, so you do not break the bank…but remember, every little thing helps!

9. Morning Java. Try a cup of organic coffee to help rev up your engine in the morning. Or, if you are not a big coffee drinker, try some organic green tea.

10. Try using the same glass or cup when you get home. The less you dirty, the less there is to clean. The less water used.

11. Car Pool when you can. If you work far and MUST drive, try carpooling. The less cars on the road the better. Plus, with gas prices the way they are everyone involved will save some money!

12. Ride a bike. If work is not too far and riding a bike is an option for you.

13. Cancel your Newspaper Delivery. Try the Digital version. This will help save some trees. Plus, most online versions are free, so you will save a few bucks too!

14. Turn off the Lights. When you wake up in the morning, open the blinds. Use as much natural light as you can.

15. Most important -> Pray on your way to work. Instead of listing to your radio while you drive, spend time praising and talking to God. Radios use your engine and more energy. Plus, He sure would love to hear form you!

These are just a few ideas to help you start your day green. If we all do a little it really will be a huge help to God’s planet.

Stay Green!

Copyright © Lara Velez, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Incorporate Bible Study Into Your Family’s Daily Life

This past Thursday evening I attended Bible study. I discovered attending bible study in mid week recharges me spiritually and I thoroughly enjoy having fellowship with my Christian brothers and sisters. In class there was a young man in his twenties, when he spoke I felt immediately that he grew up in a family that taught him Christian principals. Later, it was confirmed when he said he was raised in a Christian home. It struck me how important it is to raise children with the Word of God. It lays a foundation that reaches past their formative years and into adulthood. I thought about my own four year old daughter and how much she retains after we read the Bible. Having Bible study on Sunday simply isn’t enough if we hope to instill a reverence for Christ in our children’s hearts.

Ways to incorporate Bible study in our Children’s Lives:

A Scheduled Family Bible Study

Kids have countless activities they are involved in and as parents we are involved simply through shuttling them around. We are also busy with household, financial, and career obligations. Are we so busy that we neglect to spend time on the most important activity of all, which is learning the word of God? Clear your calendar and make it mandatory to gather as a family for Bible study at home. Take one hour a week after dinner or whenever the whole family has time and commit to Bible study. Make it an important appointment every week.

Relate Conversation to Bible Stories

Communication is an important vehicle to intimacy in a family. Although we may not be privy to every detail in our children’s life as they grow older it is vital to keep the lines of communication open and honest. When we have discussions with our children and they share issues they may be having at school or with friends, think carefully about how you respond. Try to incorporate lessons from the Bible. Give them reference to God in these conversations. They can read the scriptures, but when we relate them to their life they discover true meaning in God’s Word and they see how the Lord works.

Prayer is Meaningful All Day

It is common for kids to pray before a meal and bedtime, but are we instilling in them the concept of pray without ceasing? Make it a habit to say a prayer together in the morning before you send them off to school. Talk to them about praying throughout the day. Let them know that God is available 24/7 and he wants them to turn to him in all circumstances. My daughter and I make it a habit to thank God for the day and to pray before I send her into the classroom, it starts our day off on the right foot with God.

Journaling

Gift your children a journal for their prayers and their conversation with God. Encourage them to keep a spiritual journal. This is a wonderful way for them to develop an intimate relationship with God. It encourages them to think about their spiritual life and it gives them a chance to look back at how God continually blesses them. If you have younger children who can’t write, buy a large notepad and have them draw pictures, or ask them what they are thankful for and record it for them. It is never too early to create ways for children to think about the Lord.

Dinner Blessings

Dinner time is a superb time to give thanks not only for food, but to reflect on what each family member is grateful for that day. After the prayer and during dinner incorporate the gift of gratefulness in the conversation. Ask everyone t o say at least one thing they were grateful for that God did for them. This reminds us of our blessing and God’s goodness.

Bible Study with Friends

If your church doesn’t have a youth group, encourage your children to start one. Sometimes being a child in a Christian family can be isolating and they may feel like the odd ball in school. When your kids are in school, they are faced with peer pressure and issues that are difficult to deal with. Not everyone has the same values and moral beliefs. Kids need support groups too! If your church has children of the same age it can be a great idea to get the kids together every other week to discuss the peer pressure they face as Christians and how they can overcame it through the Word of God. The interaction between peers is important, sure we want our kids to come to us, but if they are able to share their experiences with other Christian peers it is a powerful way to support and encourage one another to stay on God’s path.

There are so many creative and fun ways to motivate our children to hear the Word of God. Love for the Word comes from reading the Bible, knowing God, church and fellowship, and in our own home. Be proactive in your child’s spiritual education and give them every opportunity available to develop an intimate relationship with God that endure beyond their years at home.

Copyright © Chere Williams, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Faith and Business 101: God is Our Promoter

I receive a daily devotion each morning from Chuck Swindoll. This past week there was a reading that really hit home with me and reminded me that no matter how much time and energy I put into something…God is the promoter, not man!

All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5: 5-7

As a mom in business, there are millions of ways to go out and promote what we’re doing. In fact, it’s a great idea to go out and do all the promoting! We put PR in our budgets and we count on that every month to help bring in sales. However, do you believe—and put into practice—the fact that PRAYER is more important than PR?

Chuck Swindoll says this: “Throw yourself on the mercy and care of God. This does not mean there is no place for planning or goal-setting or diligence; it just means we refuse to make success our private shrine.”

There is nothing wrong with setting goals and advertising, but when we put all of that before God, we are just wasting time. When you are feeling overworked and underpaid, stop and pray. Ask God to bless your efforts. Ask Him to be the Lord of your time, talent and treasure.

My goal each morning is to commit my entire day to the Lord before I start anything else. I’ll be honest and tell you that as a mother of a toddler, this doesn’t always happen. But even as I go throughout my day, I ask the Lord to be the center of what I’m doing. That my purpose and plans would be what He wants them to be—not my own agenda.

God is our promoter. No amount of promoting on our part is going to get us where we want to be without God’s approval! That makes a HUGE difference in the way I run my business.

The day I received this devotion, It was a direct message from God to my heart. I was stressed and had way too much on my plate. I needed to stop what I was doing and refocus my heart and my business on the Lord. I needed a break. I asked God to bless what I had already accomplished for the day…and then I took a much needed rest.

The devotion ended with this:

“Instead of spending all those hours pushing and promoting, we’ll wind up with more time for friends and family—and ourselves. Seems almost too good to be true, doesn’t it? It isn’t.

Submission + Humility – Worry = God-Honoring Success with Satisfaction”

Until Next Time…

MariLee

Copyright © MariLee Parrish, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.