Confused about the Bible: Understanding Bible’s Big Terms

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Subject Line: Big Words in the Bible

Dear Parents,

For little kids that start to read the Bible it can get confusing pretty quickly. The Bible is not laid out like a children’s book, and there are some words that have as many as five syllables that kids just can’t understand without help.  In this month’s parent video we’re going to cover two of those words, so you can help your child understand.

To watch the brief video, click the link below.

https://vimeo.com/parentministry/review/651416312/faf287c17d

Thank you for the privilege of partnering with your family. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

EMAIL 2

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Subject Line: What is “Justification” and “Sanctification”

Dear Parents,

Have you heard these big words in the Bible, “Justification” and “Sanctification”?

They each have five syllables and they are easy to just gloss over and ignore because they’re hard to understand.  If you’re having trouble understanding these words then imagine how your kids must feel!

In this month’s video we’re giving you an easy and understandable definition of these words that you can share with your child.

To view the full video, click on the link below.

https://vimeo.com/parentministry/review/651416312/faf287c17d

As always, I enjoy partnering with your family. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Thank you,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

VIDEO

SOCIAL MEDIA SWAG

In this month’s parent video we’re helping you break down the big words of the Bible for your child.  Justification is one of those five-syllable words that we define for you.

In this month’s parent video we’re helping you break down the big words of the Bible for your child.  Sanctification is one of those five-syllable words that we define for you.

If your child is used to reading children’s books, then how are they going to understand the five syllable words that are used in the Bible?  We discuss that in this month’s parent video.

This month’s parent video helps you teach your child the meaning of “Justification” and “Sanctification”. Check your inbox for more information.

VIDEO SCRIPT

Confused about the Bible: Understanding Bible’s Big Terms

Sometimes, the Bible can feel like it’s hard to understand. Because God’s word was recorded over a thousand years ago and written in the original languages of Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic, it helps when we have a little study help. Remember the days of Cliff Notes? Your teacher assigns Macbeth, and you’re like, “What in the world is this saying?” Then they hand out the study guide with the summary, and you have this epiphany, “Ah-Ha!”. In today’s video, we’re going to give you a basic “cliff notes” version of two big, 5-syllable words.

The first word is Justification. This 5-syllable word comes from a word meaning “to render innocent, free, to declare one to be just.” It applies to every person who gives their life to Jesus Christ. This term is a legal term and is used by God to bestow, speak, and name the state or condition of his sons and daughters.

The state or condition He declares is that they have met His standards for life.

So, how can this be? How can we have this truth spoken over us when we know we’re flawed, human, and have parts of ourselves covered in shame or guilt? Romans 5:1 states, “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Imagine yourself in a courtroom where God is Judge, you are the defendant, and Jesus is your lawyer. Accusers come to the judge stating lies about you. You’re this or that…but you’re able to stand tall because Jesus represents you, and God looks at them and says, “They’re enough. They’ve met my high and holy standards. They are innocent and not subject to condemnation.” She or he is justified. Powerful.

The second word is Sanctification. This 5-syllable word comes from a word meaning “to make holy, purify, consecrate, set apart.” It applies to every person who has given their life to Jesus Christ. This ongoing process is how the Holy Spirit influences the heart of God’s people as He is making them holy.

In I Thessalonians 5:23-23, it states, “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be kept complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will do it.” This is why, as the author of The Message paraphrases… roll up your sleeves, get your head in the game, be totally ready to receive the gift that’s coming when Jesus arrives. Don’t lazily slip back into those old grooves of evil, doing just what you feel like doing. You didn’t know any better then; you do now. As obedient children, let yourselves be pulled into a way of life shaped by God’s life, a life energetic and blazing with holiness. God said, “I am holy; you be holy.” The God of peace is sanctifying you day in and day out.

These two words, albeit long with lots of syllables, bring encouragement and hope to those walking in a relationship with Jesus. And I hope this video has brought a little clarity in understanding them better, so you can share this good news with your child, too.

Confused about the Bible: Understanding Bible’s Big Terms

EMAIL 1

Copy/ Paste this email into a browser and send it to parents.

Subject Line: Big Words in the Bible

Dear Parents,

For little kids that start to read the Bible it can get confusing pretty quickly. The Bible is not laid out like a children’s book, and there are some words that have as many as five syllables that kids just can’t understand without help.  In this month’s parent video we’re going to cover two of those words, so you can help your child understand.

To watch the brief video, click the link below.

https://vimeo.com/parentministry/review/651416312/faf287c17d

Thank you for the privilege of partnering with your family. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

EMAIL 2

Copy/ Paste this email into a browser and send it to parents.

Subject Line: What is “Justification” and “Sanctification”

Dear Parents,

Have you heard these big words in the Bible, “Justification” and “Sanctification”?

They each have five syllables and they are easy to just gloss over and ignore because they’re hard to understand.  If you’re having trouble understanding these words then imagine how your kids must feel!

In this month’s video we’re giving you an easy and understandable definition of these words that you can share with your child.

To view the full video, click on the link below.

https://vimeo.com/parentministry/review/651416312/faf287c17d

As always, I enjoy partnering with your family. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Thank you,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

VIDEO

SOCIAL MEDIA SWAG

In this month’s parent video we’re helping you break down the big words of the Bible for your child.  Justification is one of those five-syllable words that we define for you.

In this month’s parent video we’re helping you break down the big words of the Bible for your child.  Sanctification is one of those five-syllable words that we define for you.

If your child is used to reading children’s books, then how are they going to understand the five syllable words that are used in the Bible?  We discuss that in this month’s parent video.

This month’s parent video helps you teach your child the meaning of “Justification” and “Sanctification”. Check your inbox for more information.

VIDEO SCRIPT

Confused about the Bible: Understanding Bible’s Big Terms

Sometimes, the Bible can feel like it’s hard to understand. Because God’s word was recorded over a thousand years ago and written in the original languages of Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic, it helps when we have a little study help. Remember the days of Cliff Notes? Your teacher assigns Macbeth, and you’re like, “What in the world is this saying?” Then they hand out the study guide with the summary, and you have this epiphany, “Ah-Ha!”. In today’s video, we’re going to give you a basic “cliff notes” version of two big, 5-syllable words.

The first word is Justification. This 5-syllable word comes from a word meaning “to render innocent, free, to declare one to be just.” It applies to every person who gives their life to Jesus Christ. This term is a legal term and is used by God to bestow, speak, and name the state or condition of his sons and daughters.

The state or condition He declares is that they have met His standards for life.

So, how can this be? How can we have this truth spoken over us when we know we’re flawed, human, and have parts of ourselves covered in shame or guilt? Romans 5:1 states, “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Imagine yourself in a courtroom where God is Judge, you are the defendant, and Jesus is your lawyer. Accusers come to the judge stating lies about you. You’re this or that…but you’re able to stand tall because Jesus represents you, and God looks at them and says, “They’re enough. They’ve met my high and holy standards. They are innocent and not subject to condemnation.” She or he is justified. Powerful.

The second word is Sanctification. This 5-syllable word comes from a word meaning “to make holy, purify, consecrate, set apart.” It applies to every person who has given their life to Jesus Christ. This ongoing process is how the Holy Spirit influences the heart of God’s people as He is making them holy.

In I Thessalonians 5:23-23, it states, “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be kept complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will do it.” This is why, as the author of The Message paraphrases… roll up your sleeves, get your head in the game, be totally ready to receive the gift that’s coming when Jesus arrives. Don’t lazily slip back into those old grooves of evil, doing just what you feel like doing. You didn’t know any better then; you do now. As obedient children, let yourselves be pulled into a way of life shaped by God’s life, a life energetic and blazing with holiness. God said, “I am holy; you be holy.” The God of peace is sanctifying you day in and day out.

These two words, albeit long with lots of syllables, bring encouragement and hope to those walking in a relationship with Jesus. And I hope this video has brought a little clarity in understanding them better, so you can share this good news with your child, too.

Encouragement: How Can I Encourage My Kids When I’m Tired and Stressed?

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Subject Line: Feeling Discouraged?

Dear Parents,

Parenting is not for the faint of heart.  It can get busy and overwhelming so fast that it will make your head spin.  It’s easy to get discouraged as a parent.  On top of all that, we still need to offer words of encouragement to our kids.  So how do we encourage our children when we’re feeling discouraged?

In today’s video we’ll learn some ways to build courage into our kids, and maybe in the process we’ll begin to feel encouraged ourselves.

To watch the brief video, click the link below.

https://vimeo.com/parentministry/review/651416087/280c4a91b4

Thank you for the privilege of partnering with your family. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

EMAIL 2

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Subject Line: Words Have Power

Dear Parents,

Have you heard the saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me.”

That’s simply not true.

Our words can hurt and heal.  When it comes to our children, our words weigh more in their hearts than any other human on the planet!

That means we have an incredible opportunity.

Here’s an excerpt from our parenting video this month:

Kindness shows them that even in the midst of their mistakes, you are still delighted with them. The verbal and non-verbal communicates a very powerful message. It sets a beautiful example for them to understand their relationship with God, who delights in them always. For Zephaniah 3:17 states, “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” So when you use delightful words, even in the midst of disappointment, you mimic the love of God in their life.

To view the full video, click on the link below.

https://vimeo.com/parentministry/review/651416087/280c4a91b4

As always, I enjoy partnering with your family. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Thank you,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

VIDEO

SOCIAL MEDIA SWAG

Proverbs 16:24 states, “Kind words are like honey — sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” The word “kind” in this verse means delightful, pleasant. As simple as it may seem, pleasant, kind, and delightful words literally care for the soul of your child.

We just released the parent video for the month.  It’s all about how to encourage your child through the words you use with them. 

How do we encourage our children when we’re feeling discouraged?  We discuss that in this month’s parent video.

This month’s parent video is all about ways to encourage your child. Check your inbox for more information.

VIDEO SCRIPT

Power of Words: How to Use Kind Words to Bless Your Child


There’s nothing like coming home after a long day’s work to settle in your favorite cozy chair and take a minute for yourself. Or even two. But if you have kids in elementary school, you laugh at the thought of this idea because you know that’s the furthermost thing from the truth. You come home tired to kids who are tired. You had work. They had school, and then there are practices and games. Then there is managing dinner, finalizing the school project, bath, and bedtime routines. 


And while you’re in the thick of parenting night after night, it becomes really easy to bark out commands, keep to routines, and not pay attention to how and what we say. We are amiss to the non-verbal and verbal cues and the messages they send, night after night. So in this video, we give you two tips on the power of words and how they can bless your child.


First, kind words really do matter. Proverbs 16:24 states, “Kind words are like honey — sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” The word “kind” in this verse means delightful, pleasant. 


As simple as it may seem, pleasant, kind, and delightful words literally care for the soul of your child. It’s the Please and Thank you’s with a kind tone. “Will you please take your plate to the sink? Thank you, son.” It’s the intentional focus to connect to their world along with correcting and teaching. “I’ve been wondering how your game is going on Minecraft. Built anything lately, because if so, I would sure love to hear about it when you have time.” Sometimes, we think caring for the soul may be expensive, such as buying them the perfect gift, but in actuality, it is the little gift of kind words that feeds their soul. 


When we are running through our nightly routines, the smallest gestures of kindness go a long way in offering gentleness to our children. Your blessing of kindness through words is sweet to the soul and healthy for them.


Second, kind words, especially after moments of failure, are powerful. Do you know how doctors give the child a sticker or a lollipop after a shot? They are hurting, and a little “happy” seems to help for a brief moment. 


When your child makes a mistake, they can feel sadness, guilt, embarrassment, shame, guilt, and more. They are hurting, and in that vulnerable moment, words, and the non-verbal cues that come with them, are powerful. 


Kindness shows them that even in the midst of their mistakes, you are still delighted with them. The verbal and non-verbal communicates a very powerful message. It sets a beautiful example for them to understand their relationship with God, who delights in them always. For Zephaniah 3:17 states, “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” So when you use delightful words, even in the midst of disappointment, you mimic the love of God in their life.


Although kind words may seem to be an insignificant influence, they are actually a very powerful parenting tool. 


You can bless your child’s soul with what and how you speak over them. For kind words are like honey — sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.

Disappointment: How Do I Respond When My Kid Disappoints Me?

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Subject Line: Dealing with Disappointment

Dear Parents,

It’s a subject that we might be afraid to talk about, but when our kids aren’t perfect we sometimes can feel disappointed.  As soon as we feel it, we can be tempted to feel shame.  How could we ever feel that way about our child?  

In today’s video we learn that feeling disappointment is natural, and it says way more about our need to adjust our expectations than our parenting skills.

To watch the brief video, click the link below.

https://vimeo.com/parentministry/review/649305902/344718ef4b

Thank you for the privilege of partnering with your family. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

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Subject Line: Disappointment is a Call to Action

Dear Parents,

When our child makes a decision that disappoints us, we can quickly feel anger and frustration.  That feeling is our heart simply telling us that something needs to change.  God uses this to lead us to a positive plan of action if we allow Him to do His work in us.

In our parent video this month, we talk through how to respond to disappointment in a healthy way.  

To get started, click on the link below.

https://vimeo.com/parentministry/review/649305902/344718ef4b

As always, I enjoy partnering with your family. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Thank you,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

VIDEO

SOCIAL MEDIA SWAG

One of the hidden shames that a parent can feel is when they experience disappointment in their kids.  It’s not wrong to feel disappointment, and there is a healthy way to respond.  We discuss that in this month’s parent video.

We just released the parent video for the month.  It’s all about how to respond when we feel disappointed in our kids. 

How do we respond when our child makes a decision that we’re not proud of?  We discuss that in this month’s parent video.

We offer 3 ways to respond when you feel disappointed in a decision your kid has made. Check your inbox for more information.

VIDEO SCRIPT

Do you know that moment when you see your child make a decision that disappoints you? Maybe you find out they bullied someone or talked back to a teacher. Maybe they failed their first project or used harsh words with their siblings.

Every parent on the planet experiences the feeling of disappointment in their child, one way or another. It’s normal and developmentally appropriate within the parent-child relationship. And when it happens, it’s like that moment when you expected to get a bike for Christmas and got socks. So, the question is: What do you do with disappointment? 

First, admit it. As simple as that sounds, sometimes, it is hard to admit we are disappointed in our child for one reason or another. But it’s an important step to take before we interact with our child to give the appropriate consequences needed because if we don’t, we can react rather respond. 

Second, acknowledge to yourself that your child is human. Here’s what I mean. When they come into this world, they are adorable little creatures with their cute outfits and smell good lavender lotions. Then they grow out of the diapers, and now they have cute little sayings and give lots of cuddles. How can there be any human error in this precious, little, perfect angel? Well, it only takes a few days on an elementary playground to see the not-so-perfect side come out. And it’s during the elementary years where we see they are human, just like us, and we see our kids aren’t perfect and are in need, too. So when an incident occurs, and you’re disappointed, it’s healthy to acknowledge they are human.

Third, when the time is right, grieve what is needed. This moment is an important part of the process of being able to let go, so you don’t continue to bring it back up. Depending upon the level of disappointment, it may take minutes or months to work through the sadness of what happened. Acceptance looks different for each person, from a solo run on the trail to a quiet afternoon on the golf course to a five-page journal exercise. The goal is to let your mind wrap around the fact that it’s happened, and it’s time to accept it and take the next step.

These three tips: admit, acknowledge, and grieve, may be awkward for the first few times you try it, but over time, it can become a habit that you practice within the relationship to your child. Keeping your heart emotionally healthy will give you the freedom to continue parenting your child spiritually and emotionally AND get you ready as they transition into the teenage years.