I asked a new friend how we can reach our children with the truths of Christ. She said her Grandfather had loved her, played with her, and seemed to enjoy her presence; and all the time they where together he would tell her “God loves you.” He died when she was seven, but she believes his was the influence that later brought forth the fruit of faith in Christ.

I was convicted by this story. I love my children, though I sometimes wonder if they know it. I enjoy watching my children play, but rarely play with them. I am reminded by my friend's story that I need to let each of my children know I am enjoying them.

I also need to be talking about the things of Christ all the time a la Deut. 6:7. I need to say the obvious repeatedly…God loves you…God is so good to us… He is patient, longsuffering, merciful…He has plans for you, plans for good, peace, wholeness and not evil, to give you a future and a hope (Jer. 29:11).