Preparing Them (2)

'...well-nurtured plants...pillars...to adorn a palace.' Psalm 144:12 NIV

Good Morning,
We are continuing today with building character within our children. Character and maturity aren't qualities we normally expect to find in our children. We assume that these things come later-an assumption that hinders their growth potential. God's got higher expectations for your children! In His Word we read: (1) 'Our sons...will be like well-nurtured plants.' Not in their forties, fifties or sixties but 'grown up in their youth' (KJV). They needn't waste their youth; they can grow now. Why does God liken them to plants? Because they have spiritual roots capable of drawing in His nurture, ways and strength, and are born with the potential for success. '...I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the Word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one.' (1 John 2:14 NIV) Hello, that's your child He is talking about! (2) 'Our daughters will be like pillars carved to adorn a palace.' Why would God equate your daughters with pillars? First, because they're designed to be upright and support-giving; they're indispensable to the building's structural integrity. Secondly, because they 'adorn' the building, making it attractive, drawing attention to its grandeur and causing us to admire the architect and owner. Palace pillars glorify the King, making Him, and them, look good. Your children need you to believe in their God-given potential. Do you remember what Jesus said about our children? '...of such is the Kingdom of Heaven.' (Matthew 19:14 NKJV) His faith in their potential is great. Yours must be too.