Today's One Thing

[Judy Harder]

God's got a plan for every season of your life.   
 
"Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done,
saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.'" —Isaiah 46:9-10 (ESV) 

A Purpose in Every Season
"I can't believe I am 43 years old and back in college," Nina told her hairdresser, Evie. "I hated school when I was in my twenties. That's why I never finished. Now, I have the opportunity to finally finish with the support of my employer. I never would have thought. Maybe now I can figure out what God called me to do in this life."

Evie smiled as she chipped away at Nina's bangs. "Well, I think you've been living your destiny all along. I agree God has something special for you, but being a mom is a destiny in itself. Look at your beautiful children. Without you, they would not have turned out like they did. God purposed you to raise them."

"That's true," Nina said, trying not to move her head. "God knew my story before I was ever born. I hope that He has been able to use me for His glory along my entire path. Even the tough stuff can help others when I am willing to share. Others can learn from my mistakes—especially my kids. And now there's a new season—a new chapter unfolding," she continued. "I'm so excited to discover what's next."

Discovering our talents, gifts, abilities and inclinations—all significant—may be less important than recognizing and operating under the basic assumption that God has a special plan for your life—no matter how young or old you are.
 
Today's One Thing
What ONE THING can you do today that will help you become more obedient to God's purpose for this particular season of your life.
 
Going Deeper
Isaiah 46:8-13; Psalm 138:1-8

 

[Judy Harder]

When you choose to be intentional in your pursuit of God, everything can change. 
 
For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. —Romans 8:5 (ESV) 
 
In Intentional Pursuit of God
Aaron felt something deep within his heart—it was a sense that something wasn't quite right within his family. His wife seemed distant, the kids were constantly fighting and the atmosphere of his home seemed unsettled. He realized that when things at work got stressful, he became distracted and disconnected from his family.

He knew he needed to make a change and do something different in order to make things right. He also understood it wasn't something he could do in his own strength. So he became very intentional in his prayer time. He began to ask God how to be a leader in his home. He prayed that God would open his eyes to opportunity where he could speak words of encouragement and wisdom into the hearts of his children. He also asked the Lord to show Him the little things his wife wanted or needed to feel secure in their relationship.

Months later He found he enjoyed sharing his life more and more with the great God of the universe. He also began to see God's hand miraculously at work within his family. 

When your heart is right and you choose to be intentional in your pursuit of God, everything can change.
 
Today's One Thing
How are you intentional in your pursuit of your relationship with God each day?
 
Going Deeper
Romans 8:1-11; Colossians 3:1-4

[Judy Harder]

It's the little things that sometimes make the biggest impression. 
 
Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. —Ephesians 5:4 (ESV) 
 
Honor God with Your Mouth
Dr. Benson walked into the operating room to a buzz of conversation that stopped immediately upon his entrance. As they prepared to get started on the next patient, he asked, "Why the sudden hush in conversation?"

The nurse to his right said, "Someone was asking why you didn't allow any foul language in the operating room." Dr. Benson smiled. He enjoyed sharing his rules with the new staff. "Well," he began. "I am a Christian, and I want to honor God in all I do and say. Since I'm in charge of the room while I'm in it, I don't want to hear foul language. God doesn't want to hear me, you or anyone else talk that way. That is my choice in how I desire to live my life to please Him."

One of the technicians looked up and said, "What if I slip up and say something you—or God—doesn't approve of?" Dr. Benson looked sternly at him. "I wouldn't like it, but I would give you grace and forgive you the first time. Maybe even the second time. But I would hope that you would respect my wishes." The tech nodded and didn't say another word.

It's the little things that sometimes make the biggest impression. Dr. Benson simply wanted to honor God in the workplace and had one simple rule that allowed him to do that. His intentional decision demonstrated to others his desire to bring glory to God in all he would say and do.
 
Today's One Thing
What simple and practical thing could you do today that would bring honor to God?
 
Going Deeper
Ephesians 4:17-32; Ephesians 5:1-15


 

[Judy Harder]

What if your good works are unappreciated? 
 
Who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. —Philippians 2:6-7 (ESV) 
 
When Is It Truly Serving?
Jenna offered to help with preparations for the youth retreat by going early and prepping food in the kitchen and making sure the cottages were clean. She was excited to get some quiet time alone after spending the holidays with her in-laws.

While she was packing for the retreat, she received a text from the pastor. PLEASE CONNECT WITH A FEW OF THE GIRLS. THEY HAVE OFFERED TO RIDE UP EARLY WITH YOU AND HELP YOU. Jenna's heart sank. I need this quiet time, she thought. How do I navigate this? The girls will slow me down in getting things done; the trip will be non-stop chatter. She fought a meltdown. She erupted with complaint to her husband, Ryan, "What am I going to do?"

Ryan smiled. "Honey, it's an opportunity to serve these young girls. They look up to you and want to spend time with you."

"I've poured so much into them, and never a single word of thanks. They take from me emotionally with all their drama. I hold my tongue, and respond with love and kindness—and for what?"

Ryan embraced her and looked deep into her eyes. "For God...if for nothing else, you're doing this to please Him. Even if none of the girls ever see the sacrifice you've made, God sees it. He's the One who notices. He's the One who appreciates it. Ultimately, you're giving to and serving Him."

Being appreciated is a wonderful reward for your efforts in showing kindness to others. Serving people is an essential aspect of living your faith, but what if your good works seem unappreciated? It's nice to be valued by loved ones or co-workers, but it's more important to remember who you are truly serving. Learn to imitate Christ by looking to your Heavenly Father for approval rather than others.
 
Today's One Thing
Today, do something unexpected that will relieve stress for someone else—make a phone call, wash their car, clean the kitchen, or put the kids to bed expecting nothing in return.
 
Going Deeper
Ruth 2:1-23; Philippians 2:1-11

[Judy Harder]

Are you investing in the Kingdom of God?
 
Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need. —Malachi 3:10 (ESV) 
 
God's Return on Investment is the Highest
Five year-old Jason wiggled and squirmed during the family church service. Just a few Sundays a year the children didn't go to their classes so that families could experience worship together. Children would have the opportunity to see what the adults do. Jason tried to sing the songs he knew. He tried to listen to the preaching. Suddenly, he heard a word he'd never heard before—tithe. He wasn't sure what it meant, but it had something to do with giving back to God something that already belonged to Him.

Jason wanted the preaching to stop so he could ask his dad exactly what he had that belonged to God. He thought about the things in his house. He couldn't figure out what his dad had borrowed from God. As soon as the pastor said, "Amen," Jason was on it. "Daddy, I need to know what you borrowed from God that you gotta give back."

His father managed to postpone their conversation until they were in the car, headed home. "The pastor was talking about the tithe," he began. "That is considered ten percent of all that God blesses you with. Everything we have, all the money I make, all the things we own were provided by God. As a way of saying thank you, God asks for a tenth—a dime from every dollar—be given back to Him for ministry. So I give that money to pay for things the church needs."

Better than anything Wall Street has to offer is the investment return promised in God's Word. His blessings are sure to come when you faithfully give to God what is rightfully His.
 
Today's One Thing
Starting today, pray for God's oversight of your finances. Ask Him to remind you daily that it all belongs to Him in the first place—and He will honor your faithfulness!
 
Going Deeper
2 Corinthians 9:6-15; Mark 12:41-44


 

[Judy Harder]

Be intentional about bringing your family together around a common focus.   
 
He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God's church? —1 Timothy 3:4-5 (ESV) 
 
Obedience Brings Blessing
"Mom, I'm eating dinner at Candy's," Shannon called from the living room as she grabbed her jacket and backpack. Her mother, Barbie, stepped toward the front door with a bowl she'd removed from the mixer still in her hand.

"You know that your father expects you at the dinner table tonight. He's allowed you to go with your friends the past few nights, but you know the rules. Every third night is family night. We all make a commitment to be here—together—for dinner."

"Mom!" Shannon started. "You know that no one else eats dinner around the table these days. Everything is on the go." Barbie smiled, "Well, we are not like everyone else. We do things differently. Family is important. One day you'll understand."

"I know! I know!" Shannon replied. "...when I have children of my own."

At the dinner table an hour later, it was her father's turn to say the blessing over the evening meal. "Lord," he began, "thank you for our family. We have our challenges and our differences, but we make time for one another. Thank you for giving me children that honor you by obeying me and following the rules of our home. I know you will bless them for their obedience. Amen."

Any resentment Shannon held in her heart about not getting to do what she wanted that evening faded away. Her father had just pronounced a blessing over her—and she knew he was proud of her.

Every day the distractions of life constantly pull families in different directions. It is important to be intentional about systematically bringing the family back together around a common focus.
 
Today's One Thing
Today, talk to your spouse about plans for your next family vacation - anticipating and planning something for the future will help build intimacy and unity in your family.
 
Going Deeper
Psalm 1:1-6; 1 Timothy 3:1-7


 

[Judy Harder]

You know your child is unique, so let him be different from you.   
 
Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.  —Ephesians 6:4 (ESV) 
 
Seeing Life from Your Child's Perspective
Jase was an athlete. He had lettered in track and field, baseball, football and basketball, and went to college on a baseball scholarship. He was thrilled when his son Caden was old enough to share his passions. He coached his baseball team the first few years that Caden played.

Then there was a shift when Caden entered middle school. He began to show a strong passion for music. He joined the choir and asked for violin lessons. When it came time for baseball signups in the spring, Caden told his dad, "I don't think I'll play baseball this time." Jase was devastated.

His wife Carolyn encouraged him not to be angry or let Caden think he was disappointed in him. It was very difficult for Jase. He took the matter to prayer and asked God to help him talk to his son. When he finally sat down with Caden, he was able to encourage him to pursue his love for music.

You know your child is unique, so let him be different from you. Celebrate individual strengths and try to see life from your child's perspective, showing respect for his personal preferences and fears. At the same time, never abandon your own convictions. Children need the security of immovable boundaries and guidelines for behavior. It's okay to prefer playing the violin to playing baseball, for example, but it's never okay to treat others with disrespect.
 
Today's One Thing
What ONE THING could you encourage your child in today? Take time to do that today.
 
Going Deeper
Psalm 123:3-5; Deuteronomy 6:1-25

[Judy Harder]

Children need to be touched.   
 
Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.  —1 John 4:7 (ESV) 
 
Healing Touch
Gretchen's family were extremely affectionate. Hugs and kisses greeted most friends and family when they came through the door of their home. She and her husband, Craig, were expressive with their children with lots of hugs, kisses and saying "I love you."

When their oldest son, Sam, started fourth grade, Gretchen began to notice he avoided her hugs and kisses as she dropped him off at school. One afternoon when she picked him up, she asked him about it. "Sam, does it bother you when I hug or kiss you when you get out of the car in the morning at school?"

Sam scrunched his face up and looked at her sideways. "I don't want to hurt your feelings, Mom, but I am a young man. I think I'm old enough that my mom doesn't need to kiss me goodbye anymore—especially in front of my friends."

"Oh, okay," Gretchen replied. "I can respect that."

"But, Mom," Sam continued, "you can still hug and kiss me at home."

People need to be touched. Studies have shown that infants who are massaged thrive better than those left untouched. Children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder also respond to touch and become calm. So lavish your child with appropriate forms of physical affection. As they grow older, take into consideration teenage sensitivities, but never forget that they need touch, too.
 
Today's One Thing
How do you express love to your children?
 
Going Deeper
Psalm 123:3-5; Deuteronomy 6:1-25

[Judy Harder]

What are you saying? Your actions speak louder than words. 

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. —Matthew 5:16 (ESV) 
 
Practice What You Teach
When Bridgett was caught in a lie, her mother, Rachel, sent her to her room to think about her actions and what the Bible said about lying. A few minutes Rachel went into her daughter's room to talk about the incident and offer serious correction.

"Bridgett," she began, "lying is serious. It is a habit that develops and then people quit believing what you say. They stop trusting you because you don't always tell the truth. "But Mom," Bridgett replied. "It was a little, tiny lie—like when I answer the phone and you tell me to say you're not home."

Rachel swallowed hard. Bridgett was right, she thought. A lie is a lie.

The saying, "actions speak louder than words," rings true. If you tell your kids not to lie, and then ask them to tell the salesman you're not home when he calls, your instruction and actions don't add up. If you ask them to respect their teachers while you badmouth your boss, don't expect good behavior reports at parent/teacher conference time. Practice what you teach!
 
Today's One Thing
What one response do you seem to be challenged by the most in practicing what you teach as a parent? Ask God to help you be intentional to break that habit starting today.
 
Going Deeper
Ephesians 5:1-33; Matthew 5:13-16


 

[Judy Harder]

Can you admit when you're wrong to your children? 
 
Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.  —Proverbs 28:13 (ESV) 

Admitting When You're Wrong
Kirk had a really rough day at work, and it affected his mood. He hardly said a word to his family through dinner. Later that evening his daughter, Grace, brought him her daily folder. There was a note from her teacher about an incident that had happened in class that day. Grace would have to serve detention the next three days for her actions.

Kirk exploded with anger. "Grace, this is the third time already this year that you've gotten in trouble. I can't believe you have detention again! "Tears filled Grace's eyes. "Daddy, this time it wasn't my fault." "I don't want to hear it," he yelled. "Go to your room."

As Grace walked out of the living room, Kirk's heart sank. He knew he had not responded appropriately to his daughter. After he calmed down, he went into her room and apologized. "Honey, I was wrong," he said tearfully. "I shouldn't have yelled, and I should have listened to your side of the story. Will you forgive me?"

Grace reached up to hug him, "Yes, I will, Daddy," she said softly. "We all have hard days."

As parents, we make mistakes. Children intuitively know that, too. If you're willing to say, "I blew it—I'm sorry," the children learn that the relationship is more important than being right or wrong. It gives children the freedom to admit their mistakes as well.
 
Today's One Thing
Have you made a mistake lately that you need to admit to? Ask God to give you grace and strength to share with your child.
 
Going Deeper
Acts 2:42-47; Matthew 18:1-35