Homefront Magazine August 2013

OUT OF THE COMFORT ZONE | HomeFrontMag.com2

INSPIRE

CONTENTS

10 Environments31

EnvironmentOut of the Comfort Zone3 Tot Time

Along the Road26StorytellingWhen Church Is Out of Your Comfort Zone

15

PrayerGod Is in Control16

TraditionsChristmas Can17

Conversation StartersWhat Makes You Uncomfortable?

14

Game TimeOut of the Hat10Game TimeFrozen Water Balloon Relay Race

11

Capturing the SeasonBack to School Eve6

God’s WordMoses Depends on God8

Kids in the KitchenBanana Split Bites13

Family Time Recipe"Let It Rise" Breadsticks12

Spiritual ParentingInbox28

Spiritual GrandparentingEstablished Steps

29

MarriageA Peculiar People30

Tough TopicsDoubting God27

The MiddleLetting Kids Linger Out ofthe Comfort Zone

CreateGod Is Comforter18

WorshipBe Still20

Editor’s Note4

How to Use Family Time and the Family Verse5

FAMILY TIME EQUIP

SUPPORT

GlobalCosta Rica21

BlessingRenewed by God22

8 16 27

27

GOD’S WORD Moses Depends on God

PRAYER God is in Control

TOUGH TOPICS Doubting God

The Everyday ParentRelying on God

25


Design, Layout, and Photography by Brad Claypool ([email protected])

This environment recognizes that God transforms us when we step out in faith. Our flesh seeks comfort, but God’s Spirit wants to try our faith in order to grow it.

As children are challenged to step out of their comfort zone from an early age, they experience a dependence on the Holy Spirit, who will equip and strengthen them beyond their natural abilities and desires. We believe this environment will cultivate a generation that, instead of seeking comfort, seeks a radical life of dying to self and following Christ.

As adults, when we’re in situations where our own resources fulfill what’s needed, we tend to rely on our own abilities. Our kids, on the other hand, don’t have nearly as many personal resources to fall back on. Their pure faith often helps them to depend on the Holy Spirit far more readily than we do as adults.

That’s why James tells us to “consider it pure joy” (James 1:2) when we encounter trials. Joy in trials may seem like an oxymoron, but when we come to the end of our resources and our strength and we depend on the Holy Spirit, then we’re truly in a relationship with the Almighty. That’s the place where sanctification happens … and where we find true joy!

(an excerpt from Spiritual Parenting by Michelle Anthony)

I have a friend named Josh who faithfully prays over his three-year-old son. He often prays for his son to be made into a strong and courageous man. He asks God to make him mighty and use him for the sake of Christ. One night while he was holding his son and praying these words, he felt as if God said, “If you’re serious about this prayer, then I’m going to have to hurt him.” Now these are not words that you expect to hear from God, so instinctively Josh pulled his son in tighter as if to say no. With that, he felt that God responded, “So you’re going to try to protect him from Me?”

Wow! What a strong realization that must have been for a young father! To realize that in order for his son to become the mighty man he desired, God would have to let his son suffer. And at the same time to realize that God is our protector and the perfect parent, because He is willing to do this when we are not.

This story frames the environment of OUT OF THE COMFORT ZONE. This young father innately desired to protect, love, and offer comfort to his son. We are not taught this as parents; we simply react and respond this way from the first time we hear our infant cry. We are wired to bring resolution to their pain in any way we can.

However, this environment exposes our children to circumstances and experiences that take them away from their ultimate places of comfort. In this, children discover that they can no longer rely upon their own strength and securities (or even ours), so they begin to learn to depend on God for His strength.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF OUT OF THE COMFORT ZONE

Michelle AnthonyFamily Ministry Architect

David C Cook

Follow Michelle: @TruInspiration

We believe that the Holy Spirit is God’s chosen teacher. It is He who causes spiritual growth and formation when and as He chooses. As such, we have articulated 10 distinct environments to create in your home. We desire to create spiritual space, which we refer to as an environment, in which God’s Spirit can move freely.


EDITOR’S NOTEConsider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.(James 1:2–4)

I have to admit, when I’m faced with a trial, I have a difficult time considering it joy. In fact, I usually work hard to do everything I can to make my loved ones and me comfortable when we face times of trial. However, James tells us trials will mature and complete us. In this truth we find joy.

Creating an environment in which our children will be pushed out of their comfort zone will go against everything that feels instinctive to us as parents. This is why we must depend on the Holy Spirit to guide us as we step out of the way and allow Him to challenge and transform our kids.

This month’s issue of HomeFront will provide you with multiple opportunities to learn how to depend on God as you create the environment of OUT OF THE COMFORT ZONE in your home. The GOD’S WORD section (page 8) focuses on Moses’ life of dependence. And this month’s PRAYER section (page 16) shares a powerful story from a mom living out of her comfort zone while her husband is deployed in Afghanistan.

Exposing our children to circumstances that push them to the end of themselves isn’t easy. But in these moments when they have the opportunity to lean into God and learn to rely on His Spirit, take confidence in knowing He will refine them into the people He’s created them to be. It’s an incredibly important gift to give your children.

Debbie GuinnHomeFront Senior Managing EditorDavid C [email protected]

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FAMILY VERSE

Remember to HAVE FUN! Strive to make each gathering unique to your

own family as you enjoy spending time with God and each other.

3

Look through HomeFront and see what stands out. Choose two or

three experiences you would like to incorporate into your family times each week. Don’t feel burdened to complete all the activities at once, but carefully select which ones will fit your family best. This resource provides your family with more

than enough experiences to create transforming environments in your

home throughout the month.

2

1Start by deciding on a day and time that works well for your entire family.

It can be an evening, afternoon, or morning. Just commit to building

this time into your family’s natural rhythm. It’s usually best to build this

time around a meal.

ONETWO

THREE

HOW TO USE FAMILY TIME ...

It's as easy as

FAMILY TIME

FAMILY TIME IDEAS!

Memorizing Scripture can be an incredible practice to engage in as a family. But words in and of themselves will not necessarily transform us; it is God’s Spirit in these words who transforms. We come to know God more when we’re willing to open our hearts and listen to His Holy Spirit through the words we memorize. Have fun with this verse, and think of creative ways to invite your family to open up to God as they commit this verse to memory.

For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

(2 Corinthians 4:17–18)


family time

capturing the season

As the days of summer wane, as the boogie boards and swimsuits get packed away, and as backpacks get filled with new school supplies, we begin to realize that school days are right around the corner. In all of the busyness that the back to school season brings, it’s easy to forget that we need to prepare our children’s hearts for the upcoming year. Thinking of this, our family started a sweet and simple tradition a few years ago to celebrate the fun that summer contained and the excitement that a new

school year promises. We started celebrating Back to School Eve. It’s a night when the kids are in charge of the menu and the nice plates and glasses come out. A night when we parents can encourage our kids and help them face their fears and nervousness as well as anticipate together all the great things God has in store. A night to talk about what they’re looking forward to, laugh, celebrate, and pray for their friends and teachers.

Back to School Eve


family time

capturing the season

The first day of school is often out of your children’s comfort zones. What will their teachers be like? Who will sit next to them? What if their classes are a lot harder than last year’s? My daughter’s dear friend won’t be at her school this year, and she’s spent much of the summer wrestling with this great loss in her young life. Night after night we’ve prayed together for God to comfort her as well as bring her a new friend to fill in that space. Much of her trepidation about the new school year comes from imagining it without her sweet friend. But God can ease her fears and bring new relationships into her life.

As you prepare for Back to School Eve, look around your house for extra school supplies to use to decorate the table. A vase of pencils, chalkboard place mats, globes, apples, notebook paper place cards, a stack of colorful books—these items on the table make the night feel special. The menu can be as simple as pizza or macaroni and cheese—anything served on the fancy plates seems to say “Celebration.” Make conversation and prayer the focus of the night as you discuss what might be taking your kids out of their comfort zones this upcoming year. Then break out the sparkling cider and toast to what God has planned for each member of your family.

by Julie Carson and Richelle Paris


family time

god’s word

The story of Moses would seem to come straight from a Hollywood movie set. A child, given up at birth, is taken in by a family of money, power, and influence. As he grows up, he experiences stirrings that won’t let him allow the current political system to remain unchanged. He stands up to the injustice of the Israelites in slavery and takes another man’s life in the process. As he runs from his mistakes and his identity, God finds him tending sheep. He’s come to terms with the idea of being a shepherd. He’s taken another man’s life and disgraced so many people. He thinks it’s “game over.” But God has other plans for him.

In Exodus 3, the angel of the Lord appears to Moses in the form of a burning bush.

Moses Depends

on God

The angel tells Moses that God will no longer tolerate Pharaoh’s actions toward the Israelites and that He will use Moses to change things. Moses reminds God where he came from and what he did—and the fact that he stutters. How in the world could God use this broken man?

But God knew all of this. God was there when Moses was born. God was with him throughout his life and allowed his actions to shape him for a time such as this. Moses didn’t understand yet that it would take everything in him to trust in God to do what God called him to do. “How am I

supposed to do this, God? Don’t you know who I am?” Moses wondered. God replied by saying, “Who you are doesn’t matter. Tell them who I AM.”

What a better position to take! Instead of being used by God based on what we can and can’t do, we look to the One who made us. When we understand that God called us, we can remember that God will also provide. It’s a tough position to be in! However, when we come to a place of depending on God for everything we have, it allows us to remember that God gives us our very breath.


family time

god’s word

Read Exodus 33:18—34:7 together as a family.

In this part of The Big God Story, Moses wants to see God. He desires to know Him better and trust Him more. God is faithful, and He reveals Himself to Moses.

Take a second look at Exodus 34:6 and the first part of verse 7. In it, God proclaims Himself to be a loving and compassionate God who cares for all of our needs. Take some time to explain what these characteristics of God mean for your children.

Share about times you wanted to “see” more of God. Have you asked God to show Himself? What did you see? If you haven’t, take a moment to pray, asking God to reveal Himself to you and your family.

Which of the characteristics listed in Exodus 34:6–7 allow you to trust God more? How have you seen these attributes of God in your own life? When depending on God, why is it important to know the true character of God?

Sometimes it’s uncomfortable to depend on God. But God understands that about us and is patient with us.

Hear It Do ItWhat are some small ways you as a family can begin to trust God? As you learn to depend on God, your faith will be strengthened and your dependency on God will increase.

God has always been there. But He also knows we’re forgetful people. Throughout Scripture He tells us to do things to remember Him. Remembering helps us when our faith is small or shaken.

This month, write in a journal or on individual pieces of paper things God has done for you and your family and which characteristic of Exodus 34:6–7 applies to each one. It may look like this:

“Abounding in Steadfast Love”: When I lived far away from my family, I knew God was there for me.

Maybe God has shown you love in times when you needed it. When have you experienced times when you needed mercy from God for things you did or thought? Scripture indicates that God is merciful and will always forgive us. Write this down and add another attribute of God.

Listing and remembering God’s faith-fulness helps us to trust and depend on God with our whole lives—even in those times when we’re taken out of what feels comfortable for us.by Jeff Bachman


family time

game time

This game may cause your family members to step out of their comfort zone. Encourage one another if you feel embarrassed or don’t want to try something you pick. Parents, be sure to do the task with your children to show them it’s okay to feel silly at times.

Suggestions: • Bark like a dog • Do five jumping jacks • Give everyone a hug • Do a silly dance • Sing “I’m a Little Teapot” • Pat your head and rub your tummy • Act like a monkey • Create your own song to the tune of “Jingle Bells”

What You’ll Do:Have each child pick a folded piece of paper out of the hat or bowl. Allow other family members to guess what the child is doing as he acts out the directions on the paper. If your children are young and can’t read, you may wish to play this game in teams.

Remember:When we take the time to do little things that help us get out of our comfort zone, it slowly makes the big things less scary. Even doing silly tasks can provide fun opportunities to step out and try something new!

Out of the HatWhat You'll Need: + Hat or bowl + Pieces of folded

paper with easy, silly tasks

YOUNGER


family time

game time

What You’ll Do:Gather your family and divide them into two teams. Have everyone go outside, taking the balloons along with them.

Designate a starting line with two buckets or bowls filled with an equal number of water balloons. Create a finish line with two empty buckets or bowls.

On “Go!” a member from each team will pick up one frozen water balloon from her bucket and run it down to the empty bucket at the finish line. She will drop the balloon in the bucket and run back to the starting line, where she’ll tag the next team member, who will run another balloon to the finish line, and so on.

The members of each team will take turns running the water balloons down to the finish line until they’re out of balloons.

The team that finishes first wins the game!

If you don’t have enough family members to divide into two teams, play the game as one large team, and time yourselves to see how long it takes to get all of the balloons to the finish line.

* Ahead of time, fill a few water balloons (keep them on the smaller side). Put them in the freezer for six to eight hours or until they’re completely frozen.

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. (1 Corinthians 9:24)

Frozen Water Balloon Relay Race

What You'll Need: + Frozen water balloons

(2–3 per family member)

+ 4 large buckets or bowls + Large outdoor play area

OLDER

Remember:When running a relay race, you can’t succeed without depending on others. Remind your children that God wants us to depend on Him as we run the race of life.

by Amanda Hunt


for an easy metric conversion chart, search the internet for “metric kitchen.”

family time recipefamily time

12

by Stacy Igarashi

Having faith and trusting that God does everything in His perfect timing can be hard and uncomfortable at times. When we live in the environment of OUT OF THE COMFORT ZONE, we develop a posture of waiting and dependence.

This month’s recipe for breadsticks provides a way for your family to explain and understand waiting and dependence. Homemade bread requires yeast, and yeast requires time to rise. As you wait for the bread to rise, take a moment to remember that we need to rely and depend on God!

Directions:1. Heat the oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Combine water, sugar, and yeast. Stir to dissolve.

3. Cover the bowl of yeast water and let stand for 10 minutes.

4. Combine flour and salt in a mixing bowl.

5. Melt the two tablespoons of butter and set aside.

6. Once the yeast water is frothy, add it, along with the melted butter, to the flour mixture.

7. Mix with a dough hook until combined.

8. Knead the dough until it forms into a ball.

9. Cut the dough ball into 18 to 20 pieces and roll to form breadsticks. (This would be a great job for children.)

10. Place breadsticks on a lightly greased cookie sheet.

11. Cover with a dish towel and put inside the preheated oven.

12. Shut off the oven and let the breadsticks rise for about 45 minutes.

13. Take the breadsticks out of the oven and turn the oven back on to 400 degrees. Once the oven has reached 400 degrees, uncover the breadsticks and place them back into the oven for six to seven minutes.

14. While the breadsticks bake, melt a half-cup of butter and mix in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt.

15. After the six to seven minutes, pull out the breadsticks and brush on the butter mixture. Then return them to the oven for another six to seven minutes. Brush again with any remaining butter mixture.

Ingredients:+ 11/2 c. warm water

+ 2 Tbsp. sugar

+ 41/2 c. flour

+ 1 Tbsp. salt

+ 2 Tbsp. butter

+ 1 packet of yeast

Spread for top of breadsticks:

+ 1/2 c. butter

+ 2 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese

+ 1 tsp. garlic powder

+ 1 tsp. salt

Time: 1 hr. 15 mins. Yields: 18 breadsticks

‘Let It Rise’ Breadsticks


kids in the kitchenfamily time

by Stacy Igarashi

Directions:1. Slice firm bananas into bite-sized pieces.

2. Melt the chocolate in the microwave in intervals of no longer than one minute, stirring to melt the chocolate each time.

3. Prepare a bowl of sprinkles.

4. Lay out a sheet of wax paper (on which you’ll put the finished bananas).

5. Dip one end of each bite-sized banana piece into the melted chocolate.

6. Roll the chocolate end in the sprinkles.

7. Place the banana piece on the wax paper and let cool.

8. Once the chocolate cools, put a dab of whipped cream on top and finish it off with a cherry!

L ittle hands are perfect helpers for this very easy

and fun dessert!

Ingredients:+ Firm bananas + Melting chocolate (or chocolate chips) + Sprinkles

+ Whipped cream + Maraschino cherries

Fun Twists!+ For mini chocolate-covered bananas Freeze the pre-sliced bananas and roll

the frozen pieces in the chocolate and sprinkles.

+ For mini banana splits Add the finished banana split bites to

ice cream.

Banana Split

Bites


What Makes You Uncomfortable?

conversation startersfamily time

Discuss your answers together. Remind your children that when we feel scared or uncomfortable, we can depend on God to give us the strength we need. Share with them that Paul wrote about this in 2 Corinthians:

Get Your Children Talking ...

Pose the following question to your family and let them offer their answers:

What types of situations scare you or make you feel uncomfortable?Have the kids responds first, then the adults.

Three times I begged the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is all you need. My power is strongest when you are weak.” So I am very happy to brag about how

weak I am. Then Christ's power can rest on me. Because of how I suffered for Christ, I'm glad that I am weak. I am glad in hard times. I am glad when people say mean things about me. I am

glad when things are difficult. And I am glad when people make me suffer. When I am weak, I am strong.

(2 Corinthians 12:8–10 NIrV)


family time

storytelling

A couple of years ago, my husband and I and our two daughters, eight and four at the time, had to find a new church. We looked around for that perfect church until we realized it didn’t exist. It wasn’t until we began to depend on God to lead us to the right place that we found it. It was perfectly imperfect, but it felt like home. We settled in and tried to get to know people.

Our third Sunday at our new church, we sat in a row of chairs before the service by ourselves and began to panic. We knew we were “home,” but we didn’t know a single soul. Also, we were part of a very small cultural minority in this new church. It was a beautiful mix of different races and cultural backgrounds. In almost every respect we were outside of our comfort zones.

Both my husband and I had grown up in the faith and had attended the same churches for most of our lives. Finding a church, making new friends, and becoming known was all completely new to us. Our kids felt the same way. For every Sunday and midweek gathering we lived in a constant state of discomfort.

Soon we understood that living in a place where it isn’t easy makes something else possible: growth. Even as an introvert, I had to walk up to people and introduce myself. Our daughters slowly made new friends and got invited to play dates and birthdays, but it wasn’t comfortable. My husband, in other places known and praised for his musical ability, had to “prove himself” to a group of worship leaders he’d never met.

The discomfort led each of us to a place of dependence on God and was a catalyst for growth in each of our lives. I believe that our children’s lives have been irreversibly enriched because of the families we’ve come

to love. My husband’s and my ideas about ministry, growth, and community have been

stretched and pulled to places we never thought possible. We’ve done a hard thing together, and even

that has made us closer as a family.

If you’re new to a church or a community, remember that it will get easier. Don’t be afraid to make new friends and be open

to new relationships, especially those you might consider out of your comfort zone (for example, with people of different life stages,

different races, etc.). And be open to how a new community does things. Allow your sense of what is normal to be challenged. Growth doesn’t happen unless you’re a little uncomfortable. Remember that being new also means everything is fresh and you have a chance to start over. Take advantage of a new beginning.

If you’re already in a church or community, be open to friendships with new people, and ask God how you can help welcome them to your church. Be caretakers of people who are new and search for ways to include them into your family. And don’t just stop with Sunday. Meet them for coffee this month, ask to hear their stories, or introduce them to people you know and admire in your church or community. And remember, if someone looks out of place, he probably feels that way too. Go out of your way to ease his discomfort—it could mean the world to him. by Sarah Markley

Growth doesn’t happen unless you’re a little uncomfortable.

When Church Is

Out of Your Comfort Zone


family time

prayer

I come across those words frequently now that my husband is deployed to Afghanistan for a year. And while there is definite pride in that mantra, strength has never been difficult for me. Being vulnerable, weak, in need of help—now those words make me squirm a bit and are outside of my comfort zone.

I feel most at ease when I’m in control and have everything handled. But when you are working full-time, caring for two little boys who miss their daddy, and taking care of the house, the bills, the yard, and the cars, it’s simply not possible to have strength enough to do it on your own, no matter how capable you are.

One of the greatest challenges so far in this deployment has been watching our four-year-old Brody struggling to process emotions far beyond his developmental capabilities. This overflow of emotion has most often come out at bedtime. It’s fairly common for me to find Brody sobbing in his room unable to calm himself down because he misses his daddy so much. That kind of heartbreak in a four year old is uncomfortable and clearly not how things are supposed to be.

I go through the steps I’ve learned to calm him down and finally get him to sleep, but I’m all too aware that I cannot heal the wounds of his little heart. I must fall on my face

There’s strong … there’s Army strong … and then there’s Army Wife strong.

before the Lord, depending on Him completely. At times, I also have to do what comes so unnaturally for me: Ask for support from others. Once, at the height of this bedtime struggle, I posted a prayer request for Brody on my Facebook page. I knew that I would reach a large contingent of people who would commit to pray for our family.

Strangely enough, in these moments when I’m completely aware that I’m not in control, I have found the most peace. I have finally gotten out of the way and am allowing God’s Spirit to work. I can watch Him work in the hearts of our boys. I am well aware that I cannot get my family through this next year simply by gritting my teeth and being as tough as possible. Only God will get us through as we recognize we’re not capable on our own and depend on Him to work in our lives.

This month, during your prayer time, take time to pray for single parents—whether they’re single because of death, divorce, or deployment (like us). Pray for patience, energy, and good support systems. Pray for the knowledge to know when to admit they cannot do it alone and the peace to know that it’s okay because it allows God and others to bless them.

Consider going one step beyond prayer and drop off a meal, offer to mow the lawn, take their vehicle for an oil change, or “steal” their kids for an afternoon, allowing the parent to have much-needed time to herself. It will not only bless the parent—you will be blessed too!

God is in Control

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

(Matthew 11:28–30)

by Alissa Goble


Our family loves creating new traditions, especially when it involves blessing others. It’s easy to rally for family time and do fun activities that benefit us. And while that’s great, the challenge lies in taking us out of our comfort zone and doing something as a family for another family.

Christmas Can d

family time

traditions

A tradition is the handing down of statements, beliefs, or customs from generation to

generation.

Thus the idea for the Christmas Can was born. As a family, we wanted to start a tradition at the end of each summer in which we created money-earning ideas in order to save money for another family. We decided to store the earnings in a decorated can to give to them at the beginning of December to use for Christmas gifts. We placed the can at a focal point in our home, where the money would be collected. We set to work brainstorming ideas on how to raise money for the family—a bake sale, searching pockets for loose change, selling toys that we aren’t being used (or that maybe even we are), and doing “extras” around the house.

Our boys were excited about the opportunity to watch the Christmas Can slowly fill with coins and dollar bills. We periodically counted what we had collected and discussed the possibilities of how the family would use the earnings. Most importantly, we talked about the hard work it takes to earn money, and while giving it away is out of our comfort zone, it makes God’s heart happy. God doesn’t want us to only use money for our own memories, but He wants to stretch us and use our money to bless others.

There is no greater gift as a parent than to watch our boys find joy in giving, even if it’s uncomfortable for them. Finding a penny on the ground means a missed fountain wish, but it’s one more penny to throw in the Christmas Can. Choosing to sell the robot, which has been ignored in the toy basket for months, causes a smile to stretch across their little faces when they know another family will benefit from the money earned by it. Suddenly, everyday tasks become conversation pieces surrounding the family that will receive this Christmas blessing.

In the midst of beach trips and ice cream outings, the end of summer will be centered on getting outside of our comfort zone and earning money for a special family. I know the Christmas Can and the gift that follows will be a tradition our family looks forward to for summers to come.

by Rebekah Pogue


createfamily time

As humans, we seek comfort in many things offered in the world around us. As Christians, we know that the only true comfort is found in God alone. When we’re out of our comfort zone and dependent upon God for all things, He is faithful to provide and to prove to us that He’s all we need.

As a way to make this real, have each member of your family choose to give up something she would normally turn to for comfort. Have each person give up that thing for a week. Encourage each person to place her item, or a symbol representing her item, in a basket, and display the basket in a prominent, yet out of reach, place in your home.

God Is

Comforter


createfamily time

Create is a time to engage your family in a collaborative response to hearing God ’s Word.

As a family, explore Scripture verses that portray God as Comforter. You could start with Psalm 23:4; Psalm 71:21; Psalm 86:17; Psalm 119:76; Isaiah 40:1; Isaiah 49:13; Isaiah 51:12; Isaiah 66:13; Matthew 5:4 and 2 Corinthians 1:3–7. Feel free to add any other verses you’d like. Read through each passage and discuss it as a family. Talk about what it means for God to be a Comforter, and share ways you have seen God’s comfort in hard times.

Place each family member’s comfort item in a basket to keep for a week. Finally, create a piece of art together using the verses you chose. You can create this in a variety of ways. You can choose one verse to paint on a canvas, create a collage by printing out multiple verses on a variety of colored paper and gluing or fastening them to a poster board, or write out the verses and allow your family to decorate.

However you choose to visually represent your Scriptural findings of God as Comforter, display your creation in your home. Throughout the week, as members of your family struggle with not having access to the item they gave up and begin to feel uncomfortable, look again at this creation, read the verses, pray, and remind each other that God promises to give us true comfort that only He can provide.

by Emily Ganzfried

Supplies:+ A comfort item from each family member (Some examples of comfort items: favorite blanket or toy [for younger children],

video game or music device [for older children], or coffee or TV [for adults].)

+ A basket

+ A canvas, poster board, or other display item

+ Any other art supplies needed for your work of art (paint, colored paper, mod podge, note cards, etc.)


family time

worship

Learning to be a disciple of Christ can most definitely take us out of our comfort zone. When Mary sat at Jesus’ feet and listened to His teaching, Jesus treated her as a disciple, even though she was an unusual and unexpected disciple for her time. Jesus showed her, and all of us, that we’re all called to follow Him and become disciples, no matter how unexpected or uncomfortable it might seem.

Disciples live lives of devotion to their master. This means that because of their love for their master, they’re excited to follow Him and remain loyal to the end. We can never be Jesus’ devoted disciples without His help. Only through the power of God’s Spirit can we be people who live as God’s disciples, depending on Him in every situation in our lives. For this reason, it’s imperative that we learn to hear His voice through all the distractions.

This month, as an act of worship, gather your family and ask God to help you set your minds on Him—to teach you how to be disciples devoted to Him. Spend some time in prayer, sitting silently at the feet of Jesus, our Master.

As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:38–42)

While your children “sit at Jesus’ feet,” suggest that they ask God to take away their stress and distractions. Remind your kids that Jesus calls us to focus our minds on Him. Ask Him to help you let go of the things that can get in the way of hearing His voice.

Explain to your kids that they can thank God for His presence in their lives and His love for them. Then, after a few minutes (depending on the age of your children), pray together as a family, asking God to give you a heart of devotion and dependence on Him. Also ask Him to help you learn to recognize His voice.

by Tori Funkhouser

We often think of worship as singing, but we can worship God

in many different ways.

Be Stilld


COSTA RICA

NICARAGUA

PANAMA

CARIBBEAN SEA

PACIFIC OCEAN

DID YOU KNOW?

• There are more than 121 volcanic formations in Costa Rica, and seven of them are active.

• Costa Ricans refer to themselves as Ticos (males) or Ticas (females).

• McDonald's, Burger King, and most other fast food restaurants have home delivery in Costa Rica!

N

SEW

Where in the World Is ...COSTA RICA

TO GREET SOMEONE, YOU WOULD SAY:

“HOLA”(pronounced OH–LA)

To talk with your friends in Costa Rica, you would speak Spanish.

Awakening a compassionate heart and a global mindset in children for people beyond the boundaries of their own neighborhoods.

globalfamily time

Costa Rica is a nation in Central America located between Nicaragua and Panama. Its borders span 192 miles with Nicaragua and 205 miles with Panama. Costa Rica also borders the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The country has 19,730 square miles of land, including the Isla del Coco, a small island in the Pacific Ocean.

More than four and a half million people call Costa Rica their home.

Rice and black beans are staples of most Costa Rican meals. Often served three times a day, they’re called gallo pinto when mixed together. Fresh vegetables are used in most main dishes, and members of the squash family are particularly common—these include varieties such as zucchini, zapallo, chayote, and ayote.

If you attended religious services, you would most likely go to a Roman Catholic church.

POPULATION: 4,658,887

LANGUAGE:Spanish

RELIGION:76.3% Roman Catholic

13.7% Evangelical Christian1.3% Jehovah Witness

NOW THAT WE KNOW THE LOCATION OF COSTA RICA,

LET’S MEET ITS PEOPLE.

Costa Rica is one of a handful of countries worldwide that don’t have their own armies or militaries and depend on other countries for military aid. In the past, it brought in help from Venezuela. However, with relations with Venezuela in decline, the United States seems the next best option.

Costa Rica is aware that the U.S. has an interest in protecting Costa Rican national security. This dependence allows Costa Rica to accept its reality as a small nation unable to defend itself from the hostilities of foreign powers. As Costa Ricans have often asserted, “Even if we had an army, it would be so small it could not defend us—so why have one?”


Christians are often offered a blessing at the end of a church service as a benediction.

The word benediction literally means “good speaking” and is most often translated as

“blessing.” Numbers 6:22–26 records the Lord instructing Moses to bless the people with

these words: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and

be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”

blessingfamily time

RENEWED B Y GOD

BLESSOpen a Bible and read 2 Corinthians 4:16–17 over your children:

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.

PRAY(Child’s name), may you never lose heart. Always remember to depend on the Lord, for even in troubled times He is renewing you day by day.

by Debbie Guinn


INSPIRE

EQUIP

SUPPORT

Parenting stories and devotions to spur you on and motivate you as you spiritually parent your children.

Resources to prepare you as you navigate through tough ages and tough topics.

Walking alongside you to promote healthy marriages and answer your spiritual parenting and spiritual grandparenting questions.


the everyday parentinspire

W hat an amazing opportunity we have to create “out of the comfort zone” opportunities for our children when it comes to helping others.

We don’t have to travel internationally to see a need; opportunities are right around the corner in our own cities and towns—people who are hungry, cold, and lonely. What would it look like if we showed our kids how to pray for opportunities to rely on God’s Spirit and asked for strength to welcome uncomfortable situations? What if we began each morning praying with our children for the people we come in contact with—to literally be Jesus’ hands and feet living out Matthew 25:35–40 daily?

What if we treated every person as if he was Jesus? This eternal perspective shifts any fear of the unknown and turns it into a blessing to see God at work. Instead, we can anticipate the joy only God can bring

“‘For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick

and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ “Then the righteous will

answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something

to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you,

whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’”

(Matthew 25:35–40)

when we trust Him to step out of our comfort zone. Second Timothy 1:7 says, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”

Parents, let’s set an example for our kids and encourage them to rely on God’s strength when we face uncomfortable circumstances. Let’s delight in how He will use those situations to mold our family’s character. When we share stories about meeting a need, even if it’s out of our comfort zone, we make it a little less uncomfortable and a little more exciting because we know God’s Spirit is at work!

by Rebekah Pogue


the everyday parentinspire

As we approached the intersection, we noticed cars backing up in the right-hand turning lane. A homeless man was crossing the street, and the cars that had the green light to turn were waiting—but not very patiently. You could feel the irritation in the air as drivers honked and waved at the man.

My children began to pepper me with questions. “What is wrong with that man? Why is he moving so slowly? Why does he have a shopping cart?” I explained that he was homeless and he was tired.

“We have to help him!” they pleaded. “Mama, please, we have to do something.”

I maneuvered and navigated as best I could in order to get my car turned around. My hope was to get back to the place we had last seen the homeless man before he left the main street.

We drove for a while, circling the blocks in the area, but we couldn’t find him. I wasn’t really sure what we would do even if we did find him. We had spare change and some snacks the kids were ready to pass through the window, but this was something that was way out of my comfort zone. After a few minutes, I reluctantly gave up, realizing we weren’t going to find him. I expected great disappointment from my children.

“We can pray for him,” they declared. And pray we did. We prayed as we drove home. We prayed again at dinner. We prayed at bedtime. We prayed that God would provide a warm place for the man to sleep, for friends and blessing, and for him to know Jesus, if he didn’t already.

And later I said a prayer of thanksgiving for God giving us one opportunity to love this man, even though it wasn’t in the way we had hoped. I thanked God for changing my children’s hearts and for them ultimately relying on Him to make a difference in the life of that man.

by Ali Bray

Relying on Godp


tot timeequip

(ages 3 & under)

Repetition is fundamental to almost any learning style, so when you’re attempting to teach your children, use repetition!

These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts.

Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.

(Deuteronomy 6:6–7)

lie down

sit at home

along the road

get up

along the roadalong the road While driving this month, sing this rhyme (to the tune of “Mary Had a Little Lamb”) to remind your little ones we can depend on God.


Heather saw the doubts surfacing in her daughter. Five-year-old Andrea had recently learned that her older sister had died before she could be born, and the questions poured out: “Does God take all babies to heaven? Why is Kendall in heaven and I’m here? What if I don’t want to go to heaven?”

Doubts about God can arise in many forms in your child’s life. They may come as a reaction to a tragedy or as hard-to-answer questions about God and the Bible. All believers face doubts at various times. These reservations are normal and can serve to strengthen one’s faith and lead to growth. Even great men of God, including Thomas and Job, experienced doubt.

When your child expresses doubts, don’t panic. Keep your answers simple and truthful, and help him examine what he’s feeling. You may not be able to answer every question perfectly, but you can point your child to the truths in God’s Word and encourage her to trust what God says over his feelings.

Remind your child that Jesus has promised to always be with her (Matthew 28:20) and invites her to talk to Him about her fears and questions. Teaching your child a healthy way to evaluate her feelings and overcome doubt with the truth will help her stand strong whenever questions or doubts arise.

If it hasn’t already struck your household, it’s coming—the reality, according to your middle schooler, that everything and everyone is more hip, in, interesting, and smarter than you. No amount of trendy clothes, jargon, or up-to-date technology will change this fact for the next few years.

As frustrating, disorienting, and uncomfortable as this may be for you, God is working developmentally right in the middle of it. Believe it or not, self-awareness and introspection are beginning to kick in for your middle schoolers. Their eyes are opening for the first time to who they really are, how they were created, and the reality that God has a unique story to write with their lives. The problem is, they don’t even realize this and can’t articulate it. It often emerges as emotional outbursts, withdrawal and apathy, and sudden bursts of maturity and infancy all in the same sentence.

Letting Kids Linger Out of the Comfort Zone

tough topicsequip

the middleequip

(6th to 8th GRADE)

These years are awkward for our kids, no doubt, but they can be just as disorienting for us as parents. As I meet with parents of adolescents just entering the teen years, I often remind them that “What got you here won’t get you there.” In other words, the way you parent for the first decade or so of your child’s life will need to change in order to come alongside what God desires to do in her life during these teen years. It’s in this season that many middle schoolers truly discover what it means to be in relationship with Jesus. They’re separating from us for the first time and discovering what it means to be an adult. In the midst of this newness and self-discovery, God can show up and speak in significant ways.

As parents, we want to be right in the middle of this, but often we’re still dealing with our children as we dealt with them when they were five—by giving directives

and answering every question. Instead, in this season we need to allow them to live out of their comfort zones a little, wrestle with issues, and lean into Jesus in prayer. Very practically, many of us don’t listen enough to our teens, and we know the right answer before they even ask the question.

I encourage you to listen more to your teens, and don’t give an answer to some of those questions and issues until you’ve encouraged your kids to struggle with them in prayer. Push them back onto Jesus, encourage them to pray, and be in it with them.

Finally, be confident of this: God loves to meet with His kids! He will meet with your teens and transform them as they reach out to Him.

Doubting God

by Kit Rae


spiritual parentingsupport

Inbox w/ Michelle AnthonyQ: I know it’s inevitable that my son will go

through difficult and uncomfortable seasons in his life. What are some ways I can build his faith muscles during his childhood to prepare him for those times?A: The very fact that you’re asking this question shows that you understand the importance of childhood and how those experiences shape our later years. A few practical things that parents can do with their children include:

• Help your child not to merely see himself as the “victim” during a difficult situation but rather to discern what God might be teaching him through it.

• Help your child to make decisions that lead to problem or conflict resolution instead of simply trying to rescue your child from that difficult situation or person.

• Share stories about your own life and the specific hard times you’ve overcome. Tell your child what you learned from those situations.

By creating an environment of learning and growing instead of retaliation or victimization, you’re helping your child build faith muscles for a lifetime.

Q: I’d like to find the right balance of comfort for my family. How do I know if I’ve made my home too comfortable or if I’m pushing my children out of their comfort zone a little too much?A: As parents, we do want to find a balance between these two things, because when they’re out of balance we see the negative behaviors in our homes.

When our homes don’t have enough comfort, our children exhibit manifestations of fear, insecurity, and an inability to self-soothe. Kids can even act out negatively simply to get our attention. On the other hand, when our homes are places of too much comfort, we begin to see other sorts of manifestations, such as lack of discipline, laziness, stubbornness, self-centeredness, and disrespect. While these lists aren’t exhaustive, they do give a snapshot of where our kids might be experiencing or not experiencing comfort.

Take a fresh assessment of your family today. Is there too much comfort? Is there not enough? What action steps will allow you to either come alongside your child to create an environment of peace and security or require your child to step up, take action, and live with more discipline?


spiritual grandparentingsupport

What are you doing with the rest of your life? As grandparents, most of us have saved and planned for this season of our lives. We’ve done all we can to make this time as comfortable as possible. We’ve most likely planned trips and spent hours daydreaming of how we’ll fill those long days that no longer include raising children and the everyday grind of working full-time. While there’s nothing wrong with planning for the future, it’s imperative that we seek God first to see how He wants us to spend our retirement years. Proverbs 16:9 says “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” Will we be willing to step out of what’s comfortable in order to step into God’s plans for us?

The options are limitless when it comes to finding new ways to use the days God gives us. One of my friends decided to help out a single mom in her neighborhood. She takes this mom’s eight-year-old daughter to school every morning so the mother can go to work early and return home in time to spend afternoons with her daughter. Several other grandparents I know volunteer at food banks and homeless shelters. I’ve seen grandparents take their grandchildren on mission trips to underdeveloped countries. They encourage their children and grandchildren to step out of their comfort zones by exposing them to global needs.

The bottom line is this: While we’re on this earth, we never retire from the kingdom work to which God calls us. And we get to take our children and grandchildren with us on this endeavor! We, as grandparents, are the leaders. So step away from your rocker and ask God what He has for you to do. Ask Him how you can influence and lead your family members out of their comfort zones. Seek ways to step out in faith, and watch how God transforms you. This could end up being the most exciting season of your life!

by Debbie Guinn

Established Steps


marriagesupport

But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.

(1 Peter 2:9 KJV)

I remember the first time I read that Christians were called to be “a peculiar people.” It caused me to reflect upon my marriage. I asked myself if my marriage was really distinct from the people around me.

Then I asked Becky if she thought we treated each other different from the world. When we irritated or frustrated each other, did we react in a way that might be considered “peculiar”? We agreed that our natural tendency, when we irritated or hurt each other, was to react with criticism, frustration, or even anger—to withdraw or attack.

We determined to come out of our comfort zone! Rather than withdraw or criticize, we would respond with love. We made a decision to go to each other, hug, and say the phrase,

“I love you and you love me; we know we can’t escalate.” (By the way, there is nothing natural about responding this way, but it’s been amazing to see how this has transformed our marriage!)

What would it look like for you to live out your marriage in a way that you might be considered a “peculiar people”? Together as a couple, make a list of uncomfortable responses to situations in your marriage where you tend to react comfortably. Then make a decision to come out of your comfort zone and live so the world sees Jesus in your “peculiar” actions.

by Roger Tirabassi

A Peculiar Peopled


IT IS OUR PRAYER THAT HOMES AND CHURCHES WOULD CREATE THESE ENVIRONMENTS FOR KIDS TO LIVE IN SO THEIR FAITH WILL GROW IN A COMMUNITY OF CONSISTENCY, COMMON LANGUAGE, AND PRACTICE. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW THESE ENVIRONMENTS CAN IGNITE A TRANSFORMING FAITH IN YOUR FAMILY, WE SUGGEST YOU READ:

SPIRITUAL PARENTING: An Awakening for Today’s Families BY MICHELLE ANTHONY © 2010 DAVID C COOK

Below you'll find a brief explanation of each environment:

1. Storytelling—The power of The Big God Story impacts our lives by giving us an accurate and awe-inspiring perspective of how God has been moving throughout history. It is the story of redemption, salvation, and hope and tells how I have been grafted into it by grace. It further compels us to see how God is using every person’s life and is creating a unique story that deserves to be told for God’s glory.

“God has a big story, and I can be a part of it!”

2. Identity—This environment highlights who we are in Christ. According to Ephesians 1, we have been chosen, adopted, redeemed, sealed, and given an inheritance in Christ … all of which we did nothing to earn. This conviction allows children to stand firm against the destructive counter identities the world will offer.

“I belong to God, and He loves me!”

3. Faith Community—God designed us to live in community and to experience Him in ways that can only happen in proximity to one another. The faith community serves to create an environment to equip and disciple parents, to celebrate God’s faithfulness, and to bring a richness of worship through tradition and rituals, which offer children an identity. Our love for each other reflects the love we have received from God.

“God’s family cares for each other and worships God together.”

4. Serving—This posture of the heart asks the question, “What needs to be done?” It allows the Holy Spirit to cultivate a sensitivity to others and focuses on a cause bigger than one individual life. It helps fulfill the mandate that as Christ followers we are to view our lives as living sacrifices that we generously give away!

“Asks the question, ‘What needs to be done?’”

6. Responsibility—This environment captures the ability to take ownership for one’s life, gifts, and resources before God. A child must be challenged to take responsibility for his or her brothers and sisters in Christ, as well as for those who are spiritually lost. Our hope is that the Holy Spirit will use this environment to allow each child to understand that God has entrusted His world to us.

“God has entrusted me with the things and people He created around me.”

7. Course Correction—This environment flows out of Hebrews 12:11–13 and is the direct opposite of punishment. Instead, biblical discipline for a child encompasses a season of pain, the building up in love, and a vision of a corrected path for the individual with the purpose of healing at its core.

“When I get off track, God offers me a path of healing.”

8. Love/Respect—Without love, our faith becomes futile. This environment recognizes that children need an environment of love and respect in order to be free to both receive and give God’s grace. Innate in this environment is the value that children are respected because they embody the image of God. We must speak to them, not at them, and we must commit to an environment where love and acceptance are never withheld due to one’s behavior.

“God fills me with His love so I can give it away.”

9. Knowing—Nothing could be more important than knowing and being known by God. We live in a world that denies absolute truth, and yet God’s Word offers just that. As we create an environment that upholds and displays God’s truth, we give children a foundation based on knowing God, His Word, and a relationship with Him through Christ. God is holy, mighty, and awesome, yet He has chosen to make Himself known to us!

“God knows me, and I can know Him.”

10. Modeling—Biblical content needs a practical living expression in order for it to be spiritually impacting. This environment serves as a hands-on example of what it means for children to put their faith into action. Modeling puts flesh on faith and reminds us that others are watching to see if we live what we believe.

“I see Christ in others, and they can see Him in me.”

10 ENVIRONMENTS

5. Out of the Comfort Zone—As children are challenged to step out of their comfort zones from an early age, they learn to experience a dependence on the Holy Spirit to equip and strengthen them beyond their natural abilities and desires. We believe this environment will cultivate a generation that, instead of seeking comfort, seeks a radical life of faith in Christ. “God transforms me when I step out in faith.”

Contact a David C Cook rep at 800.323.7543or visit davidccook.com.

Bible Stories

Kids Will Ask For Over & Over! Author and illustrator Kelly Pulley

presents familiar Bible stories in an out-of-the-ordinary style.

Magnificent Tales are rhyming Bible stories with clever art and clear lessons that the whole family will enjoy. The stories and illustrations are so engaging that you won’t grow tired of reading and re-reading a Magnificent Tale night after night!

Documents

Homefront Magazine August 2013