I write about parenting. Sometimes I talk about God. Sometimes I do not. Parenting can be practical, like how to make them eat veggies and whether or not to limit screen time. But sometimes, like today, I need it to be about God. I’m crying out for change, supernatural, super powerful change. There’s been yet another tragic school shooting and there is an achey empty feeling in my stomach. What else can I say to my children that hasn’t been said before, as they leave the house for three different schools. What do I say to my own heart?. I’m afraid, they are afraid. What can I say that I haven’t already? I turn to the word of God which comforts me in times like this.
2 Timothy 1:7
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, Love and sound mind.
I had a short conversation with my husband about gun control and we agree it’s part of the problem but not the entire problem.
The condition of the human soul always feels like a good place to start to me.
The bible says even though I am afraid, this is not the way I have to stay. The power of God is bigger and greater than all my fears real and perceived. I have the power to be bold and brave in the face of danger and to speak up when I see something wrong or dangerous or harmful. We have the power to make change in the lives of our friends, family and community.
Don’t be afraid to speak up Do not be afraid to do the right thing or to reach out.
And do not be afraid to love on others.
extend a hand
care
notice
include
encourage
help a friend get help if they need it.
talk to the adults in your life.
As an parent, I have the responsibility to be these for my children as well. Let them know there is nothing the power of God can not overcome… even death. He is bigger than all of this. His love trumps all of this. I know it doesn’t seem like it but this side of heaven we are called to trust him, his plans and his goodness.
Without Him I feel scared, powerless, angry confused and hateful. I can even feel crazy to be honest.
With Him I feel powerful against fear and the forces of darkness. Armed with a shield of faith and the word of God as my sword I’m looking for opportunities to combat these forces with love and watch Gods light shine out and through it. I’m encouraging my children to do the same.
Laws need to change for sure. I also feel like hearts need to change. People need to change. Minds need to change.
I believe God can do all of this if we turn to Him.
Today I’m telling my children to turn to God, the author and perfecter of our faith, for He is well able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we can dare think or ask. and He has not given us a spirit of fear but one of power and love and a sound mind.
Do not fear.
Walk boldly in the life changing power and protection of God
Love.
And be a champion for the mental well being of those around you.
Other related blogs:
Making Sense of It All: A Conversation with Your Family on Current Events
Awesome! So true…I really think this sums up what most people are thinking. (Especially me)
I just keep seeing debates about Gun laws and mental illness. Which I know is necessary but it overwhelms me. I need to start at home. Teaching my children how to be kind and nurturing their souls so the world doesn’t harden them. I know I’m called to do that, so it’s at least my starting point.