faith and family | august 2016
Vicki Rutledge
“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:23
“Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness.” Psalm 37:3-4
The end of the summer and the start of school can be a bit of a blur. There is a perpetual buzz in the air, accompanied by the joyful anticipation (from both parents and kids) of the first bell. There are forms to be filled out, doctors to see, supplies to buy, and classrooms to visit. It can be easy to get swept away in the newness and busyness. In our house, I can sustain the busy energy for a time, but eventually my patience wanes and I am desperate for a break. It is these times that we need to remember the faithfulness of the Lord and respond in kind.
This year, each month we will look at the fruit of the Spirit. The fruit of the Spirit are the attributes of the Christian life according to the apostle Paul. When I think about raising my girls, each of these attributes comes to mind in thinking about who I want them to become and the characteristics I want them to embody. Faithfulness can be a tricky one to emulate, but when I think about the faithfulness of our Heavenly Father, I am reminded that my life should be a reflection of HIS glory. In the midst of this new school year and busy starts, not to mention the hard events of our world, take the time to create faithful habits in your household and in your own life – habits that reflect the glory of God. Pray often – consistently thanking the Lord throughout the day. Think of others – challenge yourself and your family to look at ways to be a reflection of Christ to others throughout the day. Talk about respect – take the time to remind your kids and yourself about the importance of showing respect over impatience or stress. This is the time to create these faithful habits in your own life, but always remember that God is ultimately the perfect picture of faithfulness. He will be with you and your child from the first day until the last – providing support and love as He walks with us each day!
Grace Brown, Faith and Family Coordinator