©Millie McNabb
In a roundtable discussion of America’s economic condition, one of the comments was something like, “The government has got to save us.”
The Bible has a different perspective of who will save us. “Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help {And} rely on horses, And trust in chariots because they are many And in horsemen because they are very strong, But they do not look to the Holy One of Israel, nor seek the LORD!” (Isaiah 31:1)
Are you intentionally teaching a Christian worldview to your children?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Choosing a Spouse: The College Shop
©Millie McNabb
I remember my mother commenting that many women go to college to find the perfect man, and pick up a good husband along the way. Getting married may not be the goal when you go to college, but it is a meeting place for many couples.
Your list of desirable traits may include “likes to learn new things.” People who attend college may have that trait. If they graduate, they also exhibit perseverance, a hallmark trait for success. …Perseverance [brings about] proven character… (Romans 5:4a)
Many of our colleges promote a tolerance and mixing of religious values. Students who are unsure of their Christian foundation, may unwittingly adopt other religions into their thinking. “So while these nations feared the LORD, they also served their idols; their children likewise and their grandchildren, as their fathers did, so they do to this day.” (II Kings 17:41)
If you’re shopping in the college market, make sure you’re equally yoked with another believer, and not just enamored with a college degree. Ask, "Will this person intentionally raise our children to become Christian adults?"
Where did you meet your spouse?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, has been married over thirty years. She offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
I remember my mother commenting that many women go to college to find the perfect man, and pick up a good husband along the way. Getting married may not be the goal when you go to college, but it is a meeting place for many couples.
Your list of desirable traits may include “likes to learn new things.” People who attend college may have that trait. If they graduate, they also exhibit perseverance, a hallmark trait for success. …Perseverance [brings about] proven character… (Romans 5:4a)
Many of our colleges promote a tolerance and mixing of religious values. Students who are unsure of their Christian foundation, may unwittingly adopt other religions into their thinking. “So while these nations feared the LORD, they also served their idols; their children likewise and their grandchildren, as their fathers did, so they do to this day.” (II Kings 17:41)
If you’re shopping in the college market, make sure you’re equally yoked with another believer, and not just enamored with a college degree. Ask, "Will this person intentionally raise our children to become Christian adults?"
Where did you meet your spouse?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, has been married over thirty years. She offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Salt Restricted
©Millie McNabb
We were talking about salt at my daughter’s natural health clinic. Part of the discussion centered around the benefits of sea salt. Another aspect of the discussion was the balance between water and salt.
Our physical bodies require a balance between water and salt. It is not unusual to hear of someone going on a salt-restricted diet. The balance could also be restored by increasing water.
In our spiritual lives, we are to be salt to the world around us. Jesus said, "You are the salt of the earth…” (Matthew 5:13a) Salt both preserves food and brings out the flavor. We are to preserve God’s values and share the freshness of His mercies in our culture.
Are we as Christians on a salt-restricted diet? Are Christian values having less of an impact in our culture?
The key to restoration is to increase water--living water. Jesus said, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, 'Give Me a drink,' you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water." (John 4:10)
How are you teaching your children to be salt?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
We were talking about salt at my daughter’s natural health clinic. Part of the discussion centered around the benefits of sea salt. Another aspect of the discussion was the balance between water and salt.
Our physical bodies require a balance between water and salt. It is not unusual to hear of someone going on a salt-restricted diet. The balance could also be restored by increasing water.
In our spiritual lives, we are to be salt to the world around us. Jesus said, "You are the salt of the earth…” (Matthew 5:13a) Salt both preserves food and brings out the flavor. We are to preserve God’s values and share the freshness of His mercies in our culture.
Are we as Christians on a salt-restricted diet? Are Christian values having less of an impact in our culture?
The key to restoration is to increase water--living water. Jesus said, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, 'Give Me a drink,' you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water." (John 4:10)
How are you teaching your children to be salt?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Monday, April 27, 2009
The Parent’s Toolshop
©Millie McNabb
A couple of years ago, I came across the best and most complete parenting resource book I’d ever seen. It’s called The Parent’s Toolshop: The Universal Blueprint for Building a Healthy Family. It is based on Biblical principles, but written for any audience.
The author, Jody Johnston Pawel, has not only brought the resources together, but she has presented them in an effective sequence along with visual ways for parents to remember the tools. The skills she shares are lifelong skills that will be useful to your children throughout their lives.
To learn more, go to www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com/resources.php
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
A couple of years ago, I came across the best and most complete parenting resource book I’d ever seen. It’s called The Parent’s Toolshop: The Universal Blueprint for Building a Healthy Family. It is based on Biblical principles, but written for any audience.
The author, Jody Johnston Pawel, has not only brought the resources together, but she has presented them in an effective sequence along with visual ways for parents to remember the tools. The skills she shares are lifelong skills that will be useful to your children throughout their lives.
To learn more, go to www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com/resources.php
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Five Keys
©Millie McNabb
My daughter was telling me the story of a woman who was distraught in the mall parking lot. A man came over to see if he could help. The woman explained that the battery had run down in her car “clicker” and she didn’t know how she was going to get into her car. The man took her key, put it in the door lock, and opened the car for her.
There are keys for passing on our Christian Values to our children. Some of these keys used to be commonly used in our culture, but now have been unconsciously set aside in favor of the conveniences society offers.
Do you want every piece of information you can get that will increase your success in passing on your Christian values? I invite you to attend “Five Keys to Intentionally Raising Your Children to Become Christian Adults and How to Use Them to Enhance Your Parenting.” This teleseminar is a week from today, Saturday morning, May 2, 2009. Get more details and register at http://www.fivekeys.eventbrite.com.
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
My daughter was telling me the story of a woman who was distraught in the mall parking lot. A man came over to see if he could help. The woman explained that the battery had run down in her car “clicker” and she didn’t know how she was going to get into her car. The man took her key, put it in the door lock, and opened the car for her.
There are keys for passing on our Christian Values to our children. Some of these keys used to be commonly used in our culture, but now have been unconsciously set aside in favor of the conveniences society offers.
Do you want every piece of information you can get that will increase your success in passing on your Christian values? I invite you to attend “Five Keys to Intentionally Raising Your Children to Become Christian Adults and How to Use Them to Enhance Your Parenting.” This teleseminar is a week from today, Saturday morning, May 2, 2009. Get more details and register at http://www.fivekeys.eventbrite.com.
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Calving
©Millie McNabb
Our neighbor across the road has started a cow-calf herd. This is calving season, and there’s new life each day as I drive by.
I grew up on a farm, and I remember how exciting it was to discover the newest litter of kittens. Also in the barn were the orphan calves that became my pets as I hung around helping my father milk the cows. My uncle, who was usually somewhat brusque, would tenderly nurse the sick ones back to health in my grandmother’s basement.
As Christians, whatever the season, we can enjoy that new life. “When you send your Spirit, new life is born to replenish all the living of the earth.” (Psalm 104:30)
What new life do you see around you?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Our neighbor across the road has started a cow-calf herd. This is calving season, and there’s new life each day as I drive by.
I grew up on a farm, and I remember how exciting it was to discover the newest litter of kittens. Also in the barn were the orphan calves that became my pets as I hung around helping my father milk the cows. My uncle, who was usually somewhat brusque, would tenderly nurse the sick ones back to health in my grandmother’s basement.
As Christians, whatever the season, we can enjoy that new life. “When you send your Spirit, new life is born to replenish all the living of the earth.” (Psalm 104:30)
What new life do you see around you?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Christian Values in Economics: Shake ups
©Millie McNabb
When I was in elementary school, my sister had friends over for a slumber party at our house. My mother was awakened to the bathroom mirror banging on the wall, and wondered, “What are those girls up to now?” We were having an Idaho earthquake.
I don’t think of Idaho as being earthquake-prone, but I just read that it’s the sixth most likely state to have an earthquake. To my knowledge, there are no visible fault lines like those along California’s San Andreas fault. The earthquake I described above was one of the largest in recent US history, yet only 28 people died as it was in a rural area.
There are some similarities between earthquakes and the economy. Sometimes the risk of an investment is obvious, like the San Andreas fault. There is constant shifting that reveals the risk. If we choose high risk, it means the opportunity both for spectacular gain and for spectacular loss. Although there may not be a specific word in Scripture about an investment, we are to be wise. “The wise are cautious and avoid danger; fools plunge ahead with great confidence.” (Proverbs 14:16)
The earthquakes in Idaho are few and far between, but they tend to be significant when they happen. This is similar to the economic situation where we become complacent, not being as careful as we might be. Our country has enjoyed prosperity which has allowed us to recover more easily from financial mistakes.
"But that is the time to be careful! Beware that in your plenty you do not forget the LORD your God and disobey his commands, regulations, and laws.”
Deuteronomy 8:11
Earthquakes are quite localized, although they may be felt at some distance. Economic downturns can also be quite localized, although the media gives them a flavor of being widespread. Currently, for example, 60% of the home foreclosures are in 5 states. If you are in one of those five states, or if it’s your house, it has significant impact. The temptation is to take in fear whether the danger is real or not. “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” II Timothy 1:7
Our children pick up on our perspective by how we act in the face of the current shaking of the economy. Are we passing on fear or Christian values to our children?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
When I was in elementary school, my sister had friends over for a slumber party at our house. My mother was awakened to the bathroom mirror banging on the wall, and wondered, “What are those girls up to now?” We were having an Idaho earthquake.
I don’t think of Idaho as being earthquake-prone, but I just read that it’s the sixth most likely state to have an earthquake. To my knowledge, there are no visible fault lines like those along California’s San Andreas fault. The earthquake I described above was one of the largest in recent US history, yet only 28 people died as it was in a rural area.
There are some similarities between earthquakes and the economy. Sometimes the risk of an investment is obvious, like the San Andreas fault. There is constant shifting that reveals the risk. If we choose high risk, it means the opportunity both for spectacular gain and for spectacular loss. Although there may not be a specific word in Scripture about an investment, we are to be wise. “The wise are cautious and avoid danger; fools plunge ahead with great confidence.” (Proverbs 14:16)
The earthquakes in Idaho are few and far between, but they tend to be significant when they happen. This is similar to the economic situation where we become complacent, not being as careful as we might be. Our country has enjoyed prosperity which has allowed us to recover more easily from financial mistakes.
"But that is the time to be careful! Beware that in your plenty you do not forget the LORD your God and disobey his commands, regulations, and laws.”
Deuteronomy 8:11
Earthquakes are quite localized, although they may be felt at some distance. Economic downturns can also be quite localized, although the media gives them a flavor of being widespread. Currently, for example, 60% of the home foreclosures are in 5 states. If you are in one of those five states, or if it’s your house, it has significant impact. The temptation is to take in fear whether the danger is real or not. “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” II Timothy 1:7
Our children pick up on our perspective by how we act in the face of the current shaking of the economy. Are we passing on fear or Christian values to our children?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Choose a Spouse: Love is...
©Millie McNabb
I recently read in I Samuel 25 the interaction of Nabal and his wife Abigail. Nabal was rude and ungrateful to David, and David was about to come destroy Nabal’s household. Abigail interceded and saved their lives. About ten days later, the Lord struck Nabal and he died. David proposed to Abigail and she became his wife. It’s a wonderful Cinderella story.
When we choose a spouse, we want to look for the Abigail characteristics. Can you imagine living out a lifelong commitment to a Nabal? My experience has been that God is more likely to let us live with the consequences of our choices than to strike fools dead. Our choice of spouse is serious business.
Nabal and Abigail probably had an arranged marriage. Abigail was beautiful and intelligent. Nabal was very rich, but harsh and evil in his doings. When push came to shove, Abigail put her own life in danger, to shield her husband and household from destruction. That was love in action.
I Corinithians 13:4-8a describes love and can serve as a checklist for the qualities to look for in a spouse.
- "Love is patient,
- love is kind {and}
- is not jealous;
- love does not brag {and}
- is not arrogant,
- does not act unbecomingly;
- it does not seek its own,
- is not provoked,
- does not take into account a wrong {suffered,}
- does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth;
- bears all things,
- believes all things,
- hopes all things,
- endures all things.
- Love never fails.”
What “love in action” qualities attracted you to your spouse?
God bless….
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Tired and No Cookies
©Millie McNabb
My daughter was changing her nine-month-old daughter’s diaper, and her daughter started twisting and wiggling. A quick swat to the exposed bare cheek reminded her daughter that she needed to stay still. It makes parenting easier if you teach the lessons when the children are young.
People can generally behave themselves when they’re well-rested and have had enough to eat. Part of character training is to teach our children to also behave when they’re tired and hungry.
We also need to warn our children that we are most vulnerable to the devil’s attacks when we are tired and hungry. Jesus was led out in the wilderness, and while going without food for forty days, was tempted by the devil. (Luke 4:1-14)
How did your parents train you to behave when you were hungry?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
My daughter was changing her nine-month-old daughter’s diaper, and her daughter started twisting and wiggling. A quick swat to the exposed bare cheek reminded her daughter that she needed to stay still. It makes parenting easier if you teach the lessons when the children are young.
People can generally behave themselves when they’re well-rested and have had enough to eat. Part of character training is to teach our children to also behave when they’re tired and hungry.
We also need to warn our children that we are most vulnerable to the devil’s attacks when we are tired and hungry. Jesus was led out in the wilderness, and while going without food for forty days, was tempted by the devil. (Luke 4:1-14)
How did your parents train you to behave when you were hungry?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Nap and a Cookie
©Millie McNabb
My daily Bible reading was in Kings today. Elijah has just orchestrated this amazing demonstration of God’s power. He proposed a contest between God and the false god Baal. The prophets are each to prepare a sacrifice, but not light the fire with human means—they are to pray to their god to come light the fire. After much todo by the prophets of Baal with no result, Elijah prepares his sacrifice, gets it soaking wet, and offers a humble prayer. God responds with fire which consumes the sacrifice, the wood, the water and the stones.
Jumping ahead in the story, Elijah is threatened by the queen and runs away and hides in the wilderness. He requests to die. Then he sleeps and is fed. “The angel of the LORD came again a second time and touched him and said, "Arise, eat, because the journey is too great for you’." (I Kings 19:7)
There are days when the journey seems too great for us. Sometimes, the answer is that we need a nap and a cookie.
Part of Christian parenting is to physically nurture our children so the journey doesn’t overwhelm them. Most of us have experienced at least once the disastrous results of going grocery shopping with tired and hungry children. Children with sensory issues or autism do noticeably better when they’re rested and fed nutritiously. Be intentional. Make consistent snacks and naps part of your parenting plan.
What “child needs a nap” experience could you have charged admission for?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at http://www.christianvalueslegacy.com./
My daily Bible reading was in Kings today. Elijah has just orchestrated this amazing demonstration of God’s power. He proposed a contest between God and the false god Baal. The prophets are each to prepare a sacrifice, but not light the fire with human means—they are to pray to their god to come light the fire. After much todo by the prophets of Baal with no result, Elijah prepares his sacrifice, gets it soaking wet, and offers a humble prayer. God responds with fire which consumes the sacrifice, the wood, the water and the stones.
Jumping ahead in the story, Elijah is threatened by the queen and runs away and hides in the wilderness. He requests to die. Then he sleeps and is fed. “The angel of the LORD came again a second time and touched him and said, "Arise, eat, because the journey is too great for you’." (I Kings 19:7)
There are days when the journey seems too great for us. Sometimes, the answer is that we need a nap and a cookie.
Part of Christian parenting is to physically nurture our children so the journey doesn’t overwhelm them. Most of us have experienced at least once the disastrous results of going grocery shopping with tired and hungry children. Children with sensory issues or autism do noticeably better when they’re rested and fed nutritiously. Be intentional. Make consistent snacks and naps part of your parenting plan.
What “child needs a nap” experience could you have charged admission for?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at http://www.christianvalueslegacy.com./
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Sticker Shock
©Millie McNabb
Recently I got a parking lot ding on my car door. The scratch actually started in the fender and went across the door, then dipped down into the trim color. I got sticker shock when the body shop gave me the repair estimate.
I remember being a mother of four young children and hearing a speaker say that it took $200,000 to raise a child to the age of 18. It was difficult to imagine that it would take that much.
Jesus asks us to consider what it takes to be His disciple. "For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it?” Luke 14:28
What things have given you sticker shock?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Recently I got a parking lot ding on my car door. The scratch actually started in the fender and went across the door, then dipped down into the trim color. I got sticker shock when the body shop gave me the repair estimate.
I remember being a mother of four young children and hearing a speaker say that it took $200,000 to raise a child to the age of 18. It was difficult to imagine that it would take that much.
Jesus asks us to consider what it takes to be His disciple. "For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it?” Luke 14:28
What things have given you sticker shock?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Friday, April 17, 2009
In an Instant
©Millie McNabb
A couple of days ago a friend forwarded an email with the subject “Britain’s Got Talent.” It was a clip of an unlikely looking woman who was met with scorn by an audience. That audience was turned in an instant into an adoring crowd when they heard her voice. Last night on Larry King Live he was interviewing Susan Boyle who has gone from obscurity to worldwide acclaim in—get this—FIVE DAYS.
Paul tells of a change that will happen to us even faster. “Behold, I tell you a mystery; we will not all sleep, but we will all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.”
(I Corinthians 15:51-52)
Are you ready for change?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at http://www.christianvalueslegacy.com./
A couple of days ago a friend forwarded an email with the subject “Britain’s Got Talent.” It was a clip of an unlikely looking woman who was met with scorn by an audience. That audience was turned in an instant into an adoring crowd when they heard her voice. Last night on Larry King Live he was interviewing Susan Boyle who has gone from obscurity to worldwide acclaim in—get this—FIVE DAYS.
Paul tells of a change that will happen to us even faster. “Behold, I tell you a mystery; we will not all sleep, but we will all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.”
(I Corinthians 15:51-52)
Are you ready for change?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at http://www.christianvalueslegacy.com./
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Christian Values in Economics: Cycles
©Millie McNabb
Over the course of ten days, we’ve had snow storms and now warming expected to go into the seventies. That is springtime in Idaho—a transition from winter to summer. We are affected by larger climatic cycles, such as El Nino which shift weather patterns over the course of years. “To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven….” (Ecclesiastes 3:1)
There are also cycles in other facets of life. Jesus asked the religious leaders, “Do you know how to discern the appearance of the sky, but cannot {discern} the signs of the times?” (Matthew 16:3b) A Christian value that you want to teach your children is discernment.
Someone has described luck as preparation meeting opportunity. Discerning the cycles of life, lets you see the opportunity. Shakespeare described this in his play, Julius Caesar.
“There is a tide in the affairs of men.
Which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune;
Omitted, all the voyage of their life
Is bound in shallows and in miseries.
On such a full sea are we now afloat,
And we must take the current when it serves,
Or lose our ventures.”
There are people who have invested much time in identifying cycles. As humans, their predications have not always been accurate. (Biblical prophets are 100% correct.) Nonetheless, they provide valuable insights about what to look for in our times. Harry S. Dent, Jr. has done extensive studies of demographic cycles and their correlation to economic cycles. His website is www.hsdent.com. Strauss and Howe have traced and predicted the patterns of America in their book Generations.
We are affected by cycles that are longer than our lifetime. The sequence of a 200-year cycle of civilizations was conceptualized by Dr. Alexander Tytler, a Scot professor, in the mid-1700’s:
"From bondage to spiritual faith;
from spiritual faith to great courage;
from courage to liberty;
from liberty to abundance;
from abundance to selfishness;
from selfishness to apathy;
from apathy to dependence;
from dependency back again into bondage."
You would not live long enough to see that complete cycle. The Christian worldview is long term. In Genesis 15 God makes a promise to Abraham that won’t be fulfilled for four hundred years. That inheritance came to his offspring because of Abraham’s faithfulness to God, who is always faithful.
What Christian heritage did you receive from your parents? What legacy are you passing on to the generations that come after you?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Over the course of ten days, we’ve had snow storms and now warming expected to go into the seventies. That is springtime in Idaho—a transition from winter to summer. We are affected by larger climatic cycles, such as El Nino which shift weather patterns over the course of years. “To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven….” (Ecclesiastes 3:1)
There are also cycles in other facets of life. Jesus asked the religious leaders, “Do you know how to discern the appearance of the sky, but cannot {discern} the signs of the times?” (Matthew 16:3b) A Christian value that you want to teach your children is discernment.
Someone has described luck as preparation meeting opportunity. Discerning the cycles of life, lets you see the opportunity. Shakespeare described this in his play, Julius Caesar.
“There is a tide in the affairs of men.
Which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune;
Omitted, all the voyage of their life
Is bound in shallows and in miseries.
On such a full sea are we now afloat,
And we must take the current when it serves,
Or lose our ventures.”
There are people who have invested much time in identifying cycles. As humans, their predications have not always been accurate. (Biblical prophets are 100% correct.) Nonetheless, they provide valuable insights about what to look for in our times. Harry S. Dent, Jr. has done extensive studies of demographic cycles and their correlation to economic cycles. His website is www.hsdent.com. Strauss and Howe have traced and predicted the patterns of America in their book Generations.
We are affected by cycles that are longer than our lifetime. The sequence of a 200-year cycle of civilizations was conceptualized by Dr. Alexander Tytler, a Scot professor, in the mid-1700’s:
"From bondage to spiritual faith;
from spiritual faith to great courage;
from courage to liberty;
from liberty to abundance;
from abundance to selfishness;
from selfishness to apathy;
from apathy to dependence;
from dependency back again into bondage."
You would not live long enough to see that complete cycle. The Christian worldview is long term. In Genesis 15 God makes a promise to Abraham that won’t be fulfilled for four hundred years. That inheritance came to his offspring because of Abraham’s faithfulness to God, who is always faithful.
What Christian heritage did you receive from your parents? What legacy are you passing on to the generations that come after you?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Choosing a Spouse: Adding the details
©Millie McNabb
I was playing with my two-and-a-half-year-old grand-daughter today. We were putting shaped blocks into their container. As we looked for each right spot, I started adding detail to the names of the shapes. She already knew triangle, but I added isosceles and equilateral. She knew square, but I added parallelogram and diamond.
At her age, she is absorbing lots of information—including concepts of family. As parents we model what a man is and what a woman is, and what a man and a woman in relationship is. It is part of intentionally passing on our Christian values. “For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example, because we did not act in an undisciplined manner among you….” (II Thessalonians 3:7)
As parents and teachers, we are not perfect in what we model, so we need to verbally fill in the details. For example, sometimes a child will see a disagreement, but not see the resolution between parents. Take the child aside after the fact, and say something like:
“Do you remember when Dad and I were disagreeing last night? You looked concerned. Were you concerned? (Explore the concerns.) I wanted to let you know that Dad and I continued to talk after you went to bed, and we reached an agreement and forgave each other. You know the Bible says to take care of your anger by the end of the day, (Ephesians 4:26) and to forgive one another (Mark 11:25.) Those are important things to do throughout life, even when you grow up and get married.”
When you’re choosing a spouse, look for how they deal with anger and stressful situations. Observe how they treat you and others when they are angry. See if they resolve anger by the end of the day. See if they offer and receive forgiveness.
How are you equipping your children to deal with anger and resolve differences?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, has been married over thirty years. She offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
I was playing with my two-and-a-half-year-old grand-daughter today. We were putting shaped blocks into their container. As we looked for each right spot, I started adding detail to the names of the shapes. She already knew triangle, but I added isosceles and equilateral. She knew square, but I added parallelogram and diamond.
At her age, she is absorbing lots of information—including concepts of family. As parents we model what a man is and what a woman is, and what a man and a woman in relationship is. It is part of intentionally passing on our Christian values. “For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example, because we did not act in an undisciplined manner among you….” (II Thessalonians 3:7)
As parents and teachers, we are not perfect in what we model, so we need to verbally fill in the details. For example, sometimes a child will see a disagreement, but not see the resolution between parents. Take the child aside after the fact, and say something like:
“Do you remember when Dad and I were disagreeing last night? You looked concerned. Were you concerned? (Explore the concerns.) I wanted to let you know that Dad and I continued to talk after you went to bed, and we reached an agreement and forgave each other. You know the Bible says to take care of your anger by the end of the day, (Ephesians 4:26) and to forgive one another (Mark 11:25.) Those are important things to do throughout life, even when you grow up and get married.”
When you’re choosing a spouse, look for how they deal with anger and stressful situations. Observe how they treat you and others when they are angry. See if they resolve anger by the end of the day. See if they offer and receive forgiveness.
How are you equipping your children to deal with anger and resolve differences?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, has been married over thirty years. She offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Smiles
©Millie McNabb
You may remember the old joke which asks, “What’s the longest word in the dictionary?” “Smiles, because there’s a mile between the two s’s.”
According to an article I read today, smiles go a long way in predicting marriage success. The researchers asked people who were over sixty-five to provide childhood photos of themselves. The results indicated that those who frown in photos were five times more likely to get a divorce than those who smiled.
The researchers stressed that they can’t conclude anything about the cause of the connection, but did speculate about some possibilities. Some had to do with the benefits associated with a generally happier disposition. One suggestion was that the people who smiled were obedient to the photographer, and were also more compliant in marriage.
“Strength and dignity are her clothing, And she smiles at the future.” Proverbs 31:25
Were you a smiling child?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
You may remember the old joke which asks, “What’s the longest word in the dictionary?” “Smiles, because there’s a mile between the two s’s.”
According to an article I read today, smiles go a long way in predicting marriage success. The researchers asked people who were over sixty-five to provide childhood photos of themselves. The results indicated that those who frown in photos were five times more likely to get a divorce than those who smiled.
The researchers stressed that they can’t conclude anything about the cause of the connection, but did speculate about some possibilities. Some had to do with the benefits associated with a generally happier disposition. One suggestion was that the people who smiled were obedient to the photographer, and were also more compliant in marriage.
“Strength and dignity are her clothing, And she smiles at the future.” Proverbs 31:25
Were you a smiling child?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Draw Close
©Millie McNabb
My nine-month-old grand-daughter was getting close to nap time. She had been happily entertaining herself sitting on the floor, but now was starting to intermix singing with “Aheh, aheh” sounds. Her mother went and sat next to her, and immediately the anxiety disappeared from her voice.
As we impart comfort to our children, they learn about God's comfort. We're passing on our Christian values. We get tired, too, and although perhaps nothing has changed in our situation, we grow anxious and cry out. God responds and draws near to us. We are comforted. A parenting tip is to verbalize this to your children to help them make the connection between what they observe and what you are experiencing.
“Answer me, O Lord, for Thy lovingkindness is good; According to the greatness of Thy compassion, turn to me, and do not hide Thy face from Thy servant, for I am in distress; answer me quickly. O draw near to my soul and redeem it….” (Psalm 69:16-18a)
Do you have a story to share of God’s comforting presence?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at http://www.christianvalueslegacy.com./
My nine-month-old grand-daughter was getting close to nap time. She had been happily entertaining herself sitting on the floor, but now was starting to intermix singing with “Aheh, aheh” sounds. Her mother went and sat next to her, and immediately the anxiety disappeared from her voice.
As we impart comfort to our children, they learn about God's comfort. We're passing on our Christian values. We get tired, too, and although perhaps nothing has changed in our situation, we grow anxious and cry out. God responds and draws near to us. We are comforted. A parenting tip is to verbalize this to your children to help them make the connection between what they observe and what you are experiencing.
“Answer me, O Lord, for Thy lovingkindness is good; According to the greatness of Thy compassion, turn to me, and do not hide Thy face from Thy servant, for I am in distress; answer me quickly. O draw near to my soul and redeem it….” (Psalm 69:16-18a)
Do you have a story to share of God’s comforting presence?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at http://www.christianvalueslegacy.com./
Saturday, April 11, 2009
The Lord Is Risen!
©Millie McNabb
The Lord is risen!
“But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they came to the tomb bringing the spices which they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men suddenly stood near them in dazzling clothing; and as {the women} were terrified and bowed their faces to the ground, {the men} said to them, ‘Why do you seek the living One among the dead? He is not here, but He has risen. Remember how He spoke to you while He was still in Galilee, saying that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.’ And they remembered His words, and returned from the tomb and reported all these things to the eleven and to all the rest.” Luke 24:1-9.
The Lord is risen indeed.
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
The Lord is risen!
“But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they came to the tomb bringing the spices which they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men suddenly stood near them in dazzling clothing; and as {the women} were terrified and bowed their faces to the ground, {the men} said to them, ‘Why do you seek the living One among the dead? He is not here, but He has risen. Remember how He spoke to you while He was still in Galilee, saying that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.’ And they remembered His words, and returned from the tomb and reported all these things to the eleven and to all the rest.” Luke 24:1-9.
The Lord is risen indeed.
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Good Friday
©Millie McNabb
When I was growing up, the schools were closed in observance of Good Friday. There was usually a special church service, often centered on the seven last words of Christ. Now Good Friday is more of a “business as usual” day. I was pleasantly surprised to see that the stock market was closed to observe the day.
It used to be that there was a foundational Christian understanding that was a part of our culture. That is no longer the case. That is why we must be intentional about passing on our Christian values to our children. It may mean a commitment to homeschool. It will cause us to examine our own lives to see how much the culture has influenced us. It will require discernment about the parenting tips we take in.
We hope that there is an intergenerational Christian influence in your household. These relationships can reinforce your beliefs as you teach your children. Take some time this weekend to contemplate the death of Jesus Christ on the cross, and the sacrifice He became in order to reconcile mankind to God.
“When they came to the place called The Skull, there they crucified Him and the criminals, one on the right and the other on the left. But Jesus was saying, ‘Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.’ And they cast lots, dividing up His garments among themselves.” Luke 23:33-34
How do you observe Good Friday?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
When I was growing up, the schools were closed in observance of Good Friday. There was usually a special church service, often centered on the seven last words of Christ. Now Good Friday is more of a “business as usual” day. I was pleasantly surprised to see that the stock market was closed to observe the day.
It used to be that there was a foundational Christian understanding that was a part of our culture. That is no longer the case. That is why we must be intentional about passing on our Christian values to our children. It may mean a commitment to homeschool. It will cause us to examine our own lives to see how much the culture has influenced us. It will require discernment about the parenting tips we take in.
We hope that there is an intergenerational Christian influence in your household. These relationships can reinforce your beliefs as you teach your children. Take some time this weekend to contemplate the death of Jesus Christ on the cross, and the sacrifice He became in order to reconcile mankind to God.
“When they came to the place called The Skull, there they crucified Him and the criminals, one on the right and the other on the left. But Jesus was saying, ‘Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.’ And they cast lots, dividing up His garments among themselves.” Luke 23:33-34
How do you observe Good Friday?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Christian Values in Economics: The Gold Standard
©Millie McNabb
The Bible is full of examples about money. Scripture has nearly 400 references to gold. If you’re serious about passing on your Christian values, money stewardship will play an important part. Our children observe us using money, and learn our attitudes, whether we intentionally teach them about money or not. Money is a training ground for being able to handle spiritual matters. "He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much; and he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous also in much.” (Luke 16:10)
Someone sent me a clip of a Glenn Beck program where he was showing a graph of the astounding amount of money that is being printed by the government. The graph was essentially flat while the United States was on the gold standard through 1971. Then the line wiggled its way slightly higher in response to wars and emergencies until 2008, when it took a sharp upward turn that has not stopped.
Gold is recognized worldwide as having value, and the price is subject to market fluctuations, supply and demand as are other commodities. This was not always the case, as highlighted in this brief outline:
--In the early history of the United States gold was unofficially the standard money.
--In 1900 the Gold Standard Act passed and gold became the official standard of our money. You could carry paper gold certificates for convenience, but exchange them at the bank for gold.
--In 1933 the established price for gold was $20.67 per ounce.
--In 1933 Franklin Roosevelt issued an Executive order forbidding the private ownership of gold. Deposit boxes were sealed, and within fourteen days the owners had to turn their gold over to a federal agent. They were paid in paper dollars for the gold.
--In 1934 the Gold Reserve Act changed the price of gold to $35 per ounce. This effectively cut the value of the paper dollars people had received in 1933 in half.
--In 1946 the Britton Woods system established international trade and exchanges using gold as the standard at $35 per ounce.
--In 1971 Richard Nixon ended the standard of trading of gold at $35 per ounce. The international markets were no longer tied together by any standard of a real commodity.
--In 1975 a bill signed by Gerald Ford made it legal to again privately buy and own gold.
What is our money based on, if not gold? We, and most countries, operate on a fiat system. (No relation to the car.) This is paper that has no real value of its own; its value is based on what it can purchase. For example, the $1, $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 bills are all the same size and of very similar appearance. It costs no more to print $100’s than $1’s, yet they have a much greater purchasing power.
The gold standard maintains discipline with the money; the fiat system can fluctuate wildly and is subject to the market. The spiritual parallel is God’s truth. It is absolute and maintains a standard and a discipline in our spiritual and moral lives. Other systems are relative and are always subject to the winds of change.
When we teach our children to be faithful with their money, we have taught them about the “little things.” It is a picture that teaches our children to also be faithful with God’s Word. With our faithfulness, we have taught them about “much.” “Therefore I love Your commandments above gold, yes, above fine gold.” (Psalm 119:127)
What examples have you seen between the spiritual gold standard and a spiritual fiat system?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
The Bible is full of examples about money. Scripture has nearly 400 references to gold. If you’re serious about passing on your Christian values, money stewardship will play an important part. Our children observe us using money, and learn our attitudes, whether we intentionally teach them about money or not. Money is a training ground for being able to handle spiritual matters. "He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much; and he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous also in much.” (Luke 16:10)
Someone sent me a clip of a Glenn Beck program where he was showing a graph of the astounding amount of money that is being printed by the government. The graph was essentially flat while the United States was on the gold standard through 1971. Then the line wiggled its way slightly higher in response to wars and emergencies until 2008, when it took a sharp upward turn that has not stopped.
Gold is recognized worldwide as having value, and the price is subject to market fluctuations, supply and demand as are other commodities. This was not always the case, as highlighted in this brief outline:
--In the early history of the United States gold was unofficially the standard money.
--In 1900 the Gold Standard Act passed and gold became the official standard of our money. You could carry paper gold certificates for convenience, but exchange them at the bank for gold.
--In 1933 the established price for gold was $20.67 per ounce.
--In 1933 Franklin Roosevelt issued an Executive order forbidding the private ownership of gold. Deposit boxes were sealed, and within fourteen days the owners had to turn their gold over to a federal agent. They were paid in paper dollars for the gold.
--In 1934 the Gold Reserve Act changed the price of gold to $35 per ounce. This effectively cut the value of the paper dollars people had received in 1933 in half.
--In 1946 the Britton Woods system established international trade and exchanges using gold as the standard at $35 per ounce.
--In 1971 Richard Nixon ended the standard of trading of gold at $35 per ounce. The international markets were no longer tied together by any standard of a real commodity.
--In 1975 a bill signed by Gerald Ford made it legal to again privately buy and own gold.
What is our money based on, if not gold? We, and most countries, operate on a fiat system. (No relation to the car.) This is paper that has no real value of its own; its value is based on what it can purchase. For example, the $1, $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 bills are all the same size and of very similar appearance. It costs no more to print $100’s than $1’s, yet they have a much greater purchasing power.
The gold standard maintains discipline with the money; the fiat system can fluctuate wildly and is subject to the market. The spiritual parallel is God’s truth. It is absolute and maintains a standard and a discipline in our spiritual and moral lives. Other systems are relative and are always subject to the winds of change.
When we teach our children to be faithful with their money, we have taught them about the “little things.” It is a picture that teaches our children to also be faithful with God’s Word. With our faithfulness, we have taught them about “much.” “Therefore I love Your commandments above gold, yes, above fine gold.” (Psalm 119:127)
What examples have you seen between the spiritual gold standard and a spiritual fiat system?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Choosing a Spouse: Becoming the Right Mate
©Millie McNabb
Some people are concerned that qualified spouse candidates with Christian values are in short supply. I broke off a relationship when I was 23 and remember being surprised by my aunt’s comment that not everyone got married.
Proverbs 19:14 says that “a prudent wife [or husband] is from the Lord.” May I suggest two things as you wait for the Lord: 1) Continue to become a godly person yourself, and 2) Write down the qualities of the Christian spouse you desire and make it a matter of prayer.
So what does it mean to become a godly person? As you look at your list of qualities you want in a spouse, would you fit the description? In I Timothy 4:7-8 Scripture says, “Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”
In practical terms, have nothing to do with the godless myths about living together before getting married. Ask “What Would Jesus Do?” as you consider a godly life, and read Matthew 5-7 for advice directly from Jesus. Paul writes in Titus about the godly life. Proverbs 31 gives a picture of a godly woman.
What advice do you have for becoming the right mate?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Some people are concerned that qualified spouse candidates with Christian values are in short supply. I broke off a relationship when I was 23 and remember being surprised by my aunt’s comment that not everyone got married.
Proverbs 19:14 says that “a prudent wife [or husband] is from the Lord.” May I suggest two things as you wait for the Lord: 1) Continue to become a godly person yourself, and 2) Write down the qualities of the Christian spouse you desire and make it a matter of prayer.
So what does it mean to become a godly person? As you look at your list of qualities you want in a spouse, would you fit the description? In I Timothy 4:7-8 Scripture says, “Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”
In practical terms, have nothing to do with the godless myths about living together before getting married. Ask “What Would Jesus Do?” as you consider a godly life, and read Matthew 5-7 for advice directly from Jesus. Paul writes in Titus about the godly life. Proverbs 31 gives a picture of a godly woman.
What advice do you have for becoming the right mate?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Look! It’s New
©Millie McNabb
When I saw my nearly nine-month-old granddaughter this evening, I could tell there was something new. There was a definite light of recognition in her eyes when she saw me and smiled. She kept smiling, and reached out for me.
Her mother saw it, too. “There was something different about her eyes and her head when she woke up from her nap today.”
As our children grow, we expect to see differences. As we grow in Christ and teach our children to follow Christ, we should expect to see differences. II Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, {he is} a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.”
I like that word “Behold.” Sometimes, we forget to expect a new creature. I heard a pastor say, “The deacons are living up to my expectations. I just didn’t expect enough.”
I encourage you to take a moment today and appreciate the new creature you are.
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
When I saw my nearly nine-month-old granddaughter this evening, I could tell there was something new. There was a definite light of recognition in her eyes when she saw me and smiled. She kept smiling, and reached out for me.
Her mother saw it, too. “There was something different about her eyes and her head when she woke up from her nap today.”
As our children grow, we expect to see differences. As we grow in Christ and teach our children to follow Christ, we should expect to see differences. II Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, {he is} a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.”
I like that word “Behold.” Sometimes, we forget to expect a new creature. I heard a pastor say, “The deacons are living up to my expectations. I just didn’t expect enough.”
I encourage you to take a moment today and appreciate the new creature you are.
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Roots and Wings
©Millie McNabb
At the memorial service I went to today, one of the children said that their mother had given her children “roots and wings.” I was thinking of how parenting involves a dynamic tension between those two goals. We intentionally make home a place to be nurtured and grow, and yet a place to leave.
When we pass on our Christian values, the roots are established in Christ Jesus. The wings come as we wait on the Lord.
“Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, {so} walk in Him, having been firmly rooted {and now} being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, {and} overflowing with gratitude.” Colossians 2:6-7.
“Yet those who wait for the LORD Will gain new strength; They will mount up {with} wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary.” Isaiah 40:31.
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
At the memorial service I went to today, one of the children said that their mother had given her children “roots and wings.” I was thinking of how parenting involves a dynamic tension between those two goals. We intentionally make home a place to be nurtured and grow, and yet a place to leave.
When we pass on our Christian values, the roots are established in Christ Jesus. The wings come as we wait on the Lord.
“Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, {so} walk in Him, having been firmly rooted {and now} being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, {and} overflowing with gratitude.” Colossians 2:6-7.
“Yet those who wait for the LORD Will gain new strength; They will mount up {with} wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary.” Isaiah 40:31.
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Deep in the Heart of Taxes
©Millie McNabb
I’ve been working on taxes today. What better place to practice your Christian values?
Jesus used many illustrations about money, and some involved taxes. The religious leaders were trying to trick Him and asked if it was lawful for them to pay taxes. Jesus had one of those answers you wish you had every time. He had them look at a coin and tell him whose picture was on it. “And He said to them, ‘Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's’." (Luke 20:25)
However, there is no need to pay Caesar more than his due. With careful planning and good recordkeeping, there are taxes you can avoid. Here’s an illustration about tax avoidance (which is legal) and tax evasion (which is against the law) to keep in mind as you prepare your taxes.
If you were traveling and the shortest road to your destination was a toll road, you could choose to pay the toll and take that road. If you drove past the toll booth without paying, that would be against the law, as is tax evasion. However, if you choose instead to take a different road that does not have a toll, but gets you to the same destination, that is entirely lawful, as is tax avoidance.
As you do your taxes, you have Christian parenting opportunities to model your attitude. As your children get older, you can involve them in sorting receipts. Your homeschool could include lessons between what is or is not a deductible expense. If you also have a home business, involve your children in identifying business expenses.
Did you get your taxes done early or you down to the wire?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
I’ve been working on taxes today. What better place to practice your Christian values?
Jesus used many illustrations about money, and some involved taxes. The religious leaders were trying to trick Him and asked if it was lawful for them to pay taxes. Jesus had one of those answers you wish you had every time. He had them look at a coin and tell him whose picture was on it. “And He said to them, ‘Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's’." (Luke 20:25)
However, there is no need to pay Caesar more than his due. With careful planning and good recordkeeping, there are taxes you can avoid. Here’s an illustration about tax avoidance (which is legal) and tax evasion (which is against the law) to keep in mind as you prepare your taxes.
If you were traveling and the shortest road to your destination was a toll road, you could choose to pay the toll and take that road. If you drove past the toll booth without paying, that would be against the law, as is tax evasion. However, if you choose instead to take a different road that does not have a toll, but gets you to the same destination, that is entirely lawful, as is tax avoidance.
As you do your taxes, you have Christian parenting opportunities to model your attitude. As your children get older, you can involve them in sorting receipts. Your homeschool could include lessons between what is or is not a deductible expense. If you also have a home business, involve your children in identifying business expenses.
Did you get your taxes done early or you down to the wire?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Temperaments and Teamwork
©Millie McNabb
“The efficient person gets the job done right.The effective person gets the right job done.”
When I came across that quote today it reminded me about a leadership book I read in the past. (If I come across the title, I’ll post it later.) The point of the book was making the distinction between a leader and a manager. Both have necessary skills and abilities for the task at hand, but they serve different functions.
Each person has strengths. The purpose of a temperament profile is to identify those strengths. Part of temperament coaching, is to help people build teams that enhance their strengths and fill in for their weaknesses.
As parents, it’s easy to focus on a child’s weaknesses and spend our time in that area. This may prove frustrating for both parties. As a temperament coach, I suggest establishing an acceptable minimal level for “weakness” areas, and focus on developing the child’s strengths.
Here’s another parenting tip: Family is the training ground for the real life. Teach your children how to work as a team, letting each member do what they do best.
“The one who plants and the one who waters work as a team with the same purpose. Yet they will be rewarded individually, according to their own hard work.”
(I Corinthians 3:8)
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Order your Temperament Profile today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
“The efficient person gets the job done right.The effective person gets the right job done.”
When I came across that quote today it reminded me about a leadership book I read in the past. (If I come across the title, I’ll post it later.) The point of the book was making the distinction between a leader and a manager. Both have necessary skills and abilities for the task at hand, but they serve different functions.
Each person has strengths. The purpose of a temperament profile is to identify those strengths. Part of temperament coaching, is to help people build teams that enhance their strengths and fill in for their weaknesses.
As parents, it’s easy to focus on a child’s weaknesses and spend our time in that area. This may prove frustrating for both parties. As a temperament coach, I suggest establishing an acceptable minimal level for “weakness” areas, and focus on developing the child’s strengths.
Here’s another parenting tip: Family is the training ground for the real life. Teach your children how to work as a team, letting each member do what they do best.
“The one who plants and the one who waters work as a team with the same purpose. Yet they will be rewarded individually, according to their own hard work.”
(I Corinthians 3:8)
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Order your Temperament Profile today at www.ChristianValuesLegacy.com.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Christian Values in Economics: The Wrong Prayer
©Millie McNabb
Shortly after the 9-11, 2001 destruction of the Twin Towers, I was in a prayer group. I requested prayer for the economy of our country. The next morning, I had the distinct impression that I had prayed the wrong prayer, as God directed me to this passage in Deuteronomy 30:8-9a. "And you shall again obey the LORD, and observe all His commandments which I command you today. Then the LORD your God will prosper you abundantly in all the work of your hand….”
The prosperity of the country is connected to the obedience of the people to God. In his book, America: To Pray, or Not to Pray, David Barton shows the decline in various segments of our society since the Supreme Court decision to remove prayer and Bible reading from the schools in 1962.
When Solomon dedicated the temple, God answered his prayer with these words in II Chronicles 7:13-14. "If I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or if I command the locust to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among My people, and My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
Our national economy is facing uncertain times as various “bubbles” deflate. We need to pray that “we who are called by His name” will humble ourselves. We need to prepare ourselves for the possibility that God is at work to burst our bubble of self-sufficiency to cause us to return to Him.
As you teach children Christian values, include lessons about the economy. As you pray with your children, approach God humbly and acknowledge your dependence upon Him. As you make decisions about the family finances, include your children, as appropriate, in the discussions. If you homeschool, make Godly economics a part of your studies.
I invite you to share your stories of lessons from the changing economy, and how you see God at work.
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at http://www.christianvalueslegacy.com./
Shortly after the 9-11, 2001 destruction of the Twin Towers, I was in a prayer group. I requested prayer for the economy of our country. The next morning, I had the distinct impression that I had prayed the wrong prayer, as God directed me to this passage in Deuteronomy 30:8-9a. "And you shall again obey the LORD, and observe all His commandments which I command you today. Then the LORD your God will prosper you abundantly in all the work of your hand….”
The prosperity of the country is connected to the obedience of the people to God. In his book, America: To Pray, or Not to Pray, David Barton shows the decline in various segments of our society since the Supreme Court decision to remove prayer and Bible reading from the schools in 1962.
When Solomon dedicated the temple, God answered his prayer with these words in II Chronicles 7:13-14. "If I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or if I command the locust to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among My people, and My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
Our national economy is facing uncertain times as various “bubbles” deflate. We need to pray that “we who are called by His name” will humble ourselves. We need to prepare ourselves for the possibility that God is at work to burst our bubble of self-sufficiency to cause us to return to Him.
As you teach children Christian values, include lessons about the economy. As you pray with your children, approach God humbly and acknowledge your dependence upon Him. As you make decisions about the family finances, include your children, as appropriate, in the discussions. If you homeschool, make Godly economics a part of your studies.
I invite you to share your stories of lessons from the changing economy, and how you see God at work.
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at http://www.christianvalueslegacy.com./
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Choose a Spouse: Character vs. Characters
©Millie McNabb
I was talking with a newlywed wife and she exclaimed, “I am so mad at his mother.
Why didn’t she train him better?”
God does expect parents to train their children. For example, Moses in Deuteronomy 4:10 reminds the people of the day they received the Ten Commandments. "{Remember} the day you stood before the LORD your God at Horeb, when the LORD said to me, 'Assemble the people to Me, that I may let them hear My words so they may learn to fear Me all the days they live on the earth, and that they may teach their children'.” The people are to learn themselves and teach their children.
I recall seeing a classroom bulletin board which read, “I said develop character, not be a character.” When you’re looking for a spouse, look for one who has developed character. Look for the one who has been trained with Christian values, and shows respect in public and in private.
When my grandmother met the man who is now my husband, she observed that he opened the doors for me. A banker commented to me that my father always removed his overshoes or wiped his feet when he entered the building. A teenager who worked on our farm commented in amazement that he had never heard my father swear. These are signs of developed character.
What signs of developed character did you see in your spouse?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at http://www.christianvalueslegacy.com./
I was talking with a newlywed wife and she exclaimed, “I am so mad at his mother.
Why didn’t she train him better?”
God does expect parents to train their children. For example, Moses in Deuteronomy 4:10 reminds the people of the day they received the Ten Commandments. "{Remember} the day you stood before the LORD your God at Horeb, when the LORD said to me, 'Assemble the people to Me, that I may let them hear My words so they may learn to fear Me all the days they live on the earth, and that they may teach their children'.” The people are to learn themselves and teach their children.
I recall seeing a classroom bulletin board which read, “I said develop character, not be a character.” When you’re looking for a spouse, look for one who has developed character. Look for the one who has been trained with Christian values, and shows respect in public and in private.
When my grandmother met the man who is now my husband, she observed that he opened the doors for me. A banker commented to me that my father always removed his overshoes or wiped his feet when he entered the building. A teenager who worked on our farm commented in amazement that he had never heard my father swear. These are signs of developed character.
What signs of developed character did you see in your spouse?
God bless….
Millie McNabb, founder of Christian Values Legacy, offers parenting seminars that focus on passing on your Christian values. Request your free report “Considerations for Intentionally Raising Children to Become Christian Adults” today at http://www.christianvalueslegacy.com./
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