Keeping on Track

The Power of God’s Word

As I look back over the years, I realize that many crises that I faced could have been cushioned if I had sought God first. I also realize that I was not diligent enough in my effort to know God’s Word.  So, I am chosen to WARN you. Now I realize that if I have a problem, the Word has the solution. If I have a crisis, the Word can bring resolution.  “Your testimonies are wonderful; therefore my soul keeps them.” Psalms 119:129. Since the Word had that kind of power, it behooves me to study it purposefully and consistently. I realize that I will never finish studying it. But through it I can KNOW the true God and become recipient of all of His promises. I can come to understand why I’m here and what I am to do. I can learn to behave in a manner pleasing to Him. I can lead my children in that understanding. Imagine the victory for your family, your church and your community if together we determined to put the reading and studying of God’s Word in its proper place.

History

Considerations for making the study of history prosperous: choose a time period and read a book on that together as a family. Make a meaningful timeline. Use historical novels to get a feel for life and circumstances during a specific era. Look for topics for discussion. Carry your conversation beyond the “classroom”. Try to find purpose in what you read. Are we learning from past mistakes? Begin creating a history book for future generations by journaling. Include the date, prices, types of games that are played, how you worship… etc.  See if you can discover God at work orchestrating the affairs of man worldwide.  Use videos as discussion starters.

Discipline

I have greatly underestimated the power of praise. In my effort to make everything “right”, I charge right into corrective measures. But for today this is my challenge: When faced with silly nuisance-like behavior, take a deep breath, give a surrendered prayer and wait. It may be more effective for you to “come in the back door” of discipline by changing the subject. You may notice something totally separate from the silly nuisance-like behavior to praise. This discipline is not appropriate for rebellious or rude behavior. Remember that Proverbs 27:5 says, “Open rebuke is better than love carefully concealed…” Keep your goal in mind – that your child loves God with all his heart and learns to behave in a way that is pleasing to Him.

Math Precaution

“Knowing” and “doing” math are two different things. Your child “knows” math when he can use the process in everyday situations and when he “knows” the process apart from the textbook. Therefore opportunity to practice math in life situations and oral problems is very important. With young children, this is easily accomplished, by just playing number games and/or asking an oral math problem each day – in the car or at lunch. Older children can be given practical life application problems by helping with budget, shopping, cooking, measuring, and travel. They should be required to prove or explain at least one problem from each math lesson from the text.

Memorization

Awaken brain activity by choosing to memorize Scripture and poetry. You may choose long portions of Scripture to memorize as a family. Keep going even during the summer. Make memorizing a happy time. Keep the Bible open for quick reference if it is needed.  We all memorize differently, so give even your dyslexic a good time. You may write the verses on cards and read them for days before trying to quote. Have fun. Keep the WORD amazing!

Rest

Psalms 94:12-13A “Blessed is the man whom You instruct, O Lord, and teach out of Your law, that you may give him rest from the days of adversity.”  Praise God for His instruction, His teaching, for from it flows His rest!!!

EXPO

Stop by the WCFS booth and say “Hi!” We’re looking forward to a great curriculum fair. Don’t miss it!