We have been in North Carolina for almost three years. In this time, I have learned so much about the culture here and my own family. It’s funny how moving to a new area creates so many new learning opportunities. One of the things that I have observed is show busy we get around here. It’s the beginning of the school year and if that is not enough to keep us busy we have things like football, volleyball, cross country, dance and a myriad of other activities to keep us engaged. All these things are great but they require something from us…
our time.

I have been reminded in my own personal walk with the Lord that He values every minute of time we spend with Him. Think of that, the same God who created the universe loves when we spend time with Him. This leads us to a question. That question is simply this, is there joy in knowing our children? Are we making time for them or just their activities? I know that sounds like a crazy question, but as a parent we know the answer. For some of us, there is joy in knowing our children and for others there is simply joy in keeping them busy.

Let me encourage you with this verse.

Behold, children are a gift of the Lord, The fruit of the womb is a reward. (Psalms 127:3 NASB)

I know things are crazy in your home. I know my wife and I are not the only ones who struggle with being so busy that we forget simple truths from the scriptures. God has given you the time and more important the ability to get to know your children. We can’t control every aspect of our lives but we do have a great deal of control over what goes on our family calendars. Be intentional about getting to know your children. They need you in their lives….so much so that God gave them specifically to you to parent. So be bold, clear non essential activities from your family calendar…. and get to know your children even more.