Introduction
In this discussion on family and discipleship, we explore how families can cultivate a prayerful life centered on Jesus, particularly in a culture that often distracts and discourages their spiritual growth. The conversation features insights from Frank and Kathy Kivar, long-time members of the church and new leaders in family ministry. They emphasize the importance of community support in nurturing faith and raising children who follow Christ.
Main Points
At The Heart Of Understanding Family
At the heart of understanding family discipleship is Scripture, particularly Deuteronomy 6:5-7, which resonates profoundly with our responsibilities as parents. Frank highlights that this passage calls us to love God wholeheartedly, asserting that this vertical relationship is fundamental to our familial love.
- When parents prioritize their relationship with the Lord, they can authentically teach their children about His love.
- The act of teaching should not be limited to mere instructions but should come through modeling genuine faith and obedience to God's commands in everyday situations.
- The essence of this Scripture prompts us to embed God's Word in every aspect of family life, including when we eat, walk, and rest together.
- Prayer is not an afterthought but an integral part of family life that should be approached with intent.
As Frank And Kathy Share Praying
As Frank and Kathy share, praying together as a family creates a bond that goes deeper than surface-level interactions. Establishing a routine, such as nightly prayers or sharing prayer requests during family meals, allows for open discussions about each person's experiences and needs.
- It's essential for children to observe their parents engaging in prayer, which models dependency and trust in God's sovereignty, reinforcing the concept that we are not in control.
- This practice not only strengthens relationships within the family but also helps cultivate a culture of openness where children feel safe sharing their concerns and feelings.
- Frank emphasizes the necessity of prioritizing the marriage relationship as a foundation for family stability and security.
- He encourages couples to demonstrate their love for one another openly, suggesting that children benefit from seeing their parents express affection and grace.
When Children Understand That Their Parents
When children understand that their parents' love is robust, it instills a sense of security, allowing them to thrive. Furthermore, our role as parents involves teaching our children to see their future spouses as unique gifts from God, promoting a vision of marriage filled with love and mutual respect. Culturally, there are significant distractions and fears that can lead to a lack of faith and hesitance in parenting. The Kivars discuss how fear can often dictate our parenting choices. However, we as believers must combat this fear through prayer and trust in God’s plan. Frank highlights that a protective God watches over our children, and we should not succumb to panic or anxiety about the world's influences.
Instead We Can Model Faith And
Instead, we can model faith and resilience in our family discussions, ensuring that we nurture our children's independence without allowing fear to govern our decisions. Connecting with a community of believers plays a crucial role in family discipleship. Frank and Kathy discuss how their long-standing involvement in the church has provided them with a network of support throughout their parenting journey. This community not only aids in personal spiritual growth but also creates accountability and encouragement to uphold biblical truths in everyday situations. A supportive church environment empowers families to practice faith together, share resources, and participate in collective prayer, fostering a robust spiritual community where everyone thrives. Being intentional about prayer includes using resources and tools that facilitate this practice.
Frank Suggests Incorporating Prayer Prompts And
Frank suggests incorporating prayer prompts and thematic Scripture readings into family time. Simple discussions and prayers around dinner tables or during bedtime can help lay the groundwork for connecting with God regularly. Using the words of Scripture as prayers, personalizing them with family names, makes them powerful and impactful. This practice not only honors God but also deepens familial bonds through shared spiritual experiences. A critical aspect of modeling Christian faith in the family is demonstrating vulnerability and the willingness to ask for forgiveness. Through their personal stories, the Kivars illustrate how sharing faults and seeking reconciliation can lead to enriching experiences within the family.
This Openness Encourages Children To Navigate
This openness encourages children to navigate their own mistakes and seek forgiveness, thereby cultivating an environment of grace and accountability. This not only invites deeper conversations but also models an essential component of discipleship within the family context.
Conclusion
In summary, creating a spiritually vibrant family culture hinges on intentionality, vulnerability, and a deep commitment to prayer and God’s Word. By fostering our vertical relationship with God, prioritizing our marriages, and nurturing a community that shares the same vision, we can raise children who love and follow Jesus. As we take these steps, we build a foundation of faith that not only impacts ourselves but also extends to future generations, empowering them to live out their faith boldly in today’s world.