“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” – 3 John 1:4.
This week we concluded the Raising Home Run Kids teaching series. My prayer is that you gained some new insights on how to use God’s principles to raise home run kids, and for life in general. Here are the things I would tell each child as a result of this series.
Remember that you are unique and what’s more you have eternal value and significance. The fact is, God does not make junk. He has a plan and a future for each child. (Jeremiah 29:11) Each of you have an amazing contribution to make to the lives of others. God created each of you for the purpose of serving Him in the lives of others. People you have never met may be counting on having your influence in their life some day.
You have incredible and unique skills and abilities to develop and use for God’s glory. Try not to compare yourself to others. Let God help you become who He designed you to be. “Do not neglect the spiritual gift you received…” (1 Timothy 4:14) Living a home run life, a life that is fulfilling and happy, depends on having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Walking with Him, knowing Him, and learning of Him on a daily basis is where life is really a home run.
Your life is more about your future than your past. Yes, you have made mistakes and you will make more mistakes throughout your life. There will be times of confusion and frustration. Your journey will be littered with traps and pitfalls, but God’s Word is the ultimate guide. When you know God and know His principles, you are safeguarding your steps. “Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.” (Joshua 1:8)
Don’t be impatient and run the bases out of order. In other words, don’t rush what God is doing in your life right now. Be willing to follow God’s principles; first connect with Him, find community and then uncover and use the competencies God has given you. “Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.” (Hebrews 10:36)
Finally, I encourage you to never stop learning and growing. Constantly work on building your relationship with our Heavenly Father. “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.” (Galatians 6:9)
Discussion Questions
- What is the one thing that will stick with you concerning the Raising Home Run Kids series?
- Having heard the series, how has your view of the home run life changed? How has your view of raising kids changed?
- What can we do this week to help our kids move to the next base?