S.O.A.P. for 03/01/2009 Children

S: Mark 10:13-16
Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them, but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, " Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them, for of such is the Kingdom of God. Assuredly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it." And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them.

Psalm 127:3
Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord. The fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior. So are the children of one's youth.

O: To often, children are seen as secondary, or a bother rather than assets. But the Bible and God call children "A heritage from the Lord." a reward. We can learn something very valuable from their inquisitive minds filled with curiosity and their trusting spirits! Those who view children as a distraction or a nuisance should instead see them as an opportunity to shape the future. How dare we treat them as an inconvenience or an "afterthought" when God places such a high value on them!
Jesus was often criticized for spending too much time with children, tax collectors, and sinners. Even the disciples fell into this trap, forgetting the real purpose of the Messiah, to save the lost, not attain status in the world. Many people thought HE should be spending time with religious leaders and the devout so that he could improve His standing, but Jesus had no need to improve His standing, and neither do we. He was God, and He wanted to speak to and love those who needed Him the most.

A: Adults are not as trusting as children. That's probably more than obvious. All a child needs to trust you is a loving look, a hug, or a gentle touch, from someone who cares. Being able to analyze and intellectualize is not a requirement. They believe us if they trust us. Jesus so wants us to have that trust in Him, to just believe, like our children look at us and just KNOW that we are their for them, and we will provide for them, and wipe their tears, and fix what's wrong. He desires that childlike faith from us. It should be enough to know that He loves us and forgives us, and we should stop trying to "Understand" it all. Adding to this is the fact that children themselves are to be blessed. How many times have people picked on me for how much time I spend on my children? How many times have I gotten mad over people not doing ANYTHING with their children? If children are our reward from God, then do we not owe it to Him to show that? To me, teaching them, loving them, teaching them of God, cleaning the house for them, being tired for them, getting over nightmares with them, snuggling with them, teaching them of life, of responsibility is simply my duty and my way of showing God that I'm thankful for Him choosing me to raise some of His little ones and I in no way want to let Him or them down. If someone thinks I do too much, I can let them take it up with God, and He can handle it. Otherwise, I'm going to stick with my plan of being the best darned mom I can be to these children who aren't promised to me forever, but that I'm supposed to do the best I can with while they are in my care. I don't have long, and neither do you. Will we one day release them with pride?

P: Abba, Father,
You have truly blessed me, and my life, with allowing me the gift of being a mother to Your children. I pray for the tenacity it takes to stay strong in raising these young men for You. I pray for wisdom, so that I may never lead them astray. I pray that in leading them to You so early, that even though I may be rough around the edges, that I may be making up for it in them, that they will retain their childlike faith in You! That they may truly be worthy of a place with You. I pray that every day I go one better than the opportunities that were before me at a young age. Lord, let me not fail them. Lord work through me that You may be proud of these boys who will one day walk as men on earth, leading others, and their own families to You!

In Jesus Name
Amen

Clouds will rage in
Storms will race in
But you will be safe in my arms
Rains will pour down
Waves will crash all around
But you will be safe in my arms
*Plumb*