Daly Focus Blog
The question we get from a lot of moms and dads as the spread of the coronavirus dominates the news is, “What’s the best way to do family devotions, practically speaking?”
Could it be that for all the uncertainty and fear associated with this pandemic, it also presents you with an opportunity to make the most of this unanticipated extra time together?
My wife Jean and I have done devotions with our boys all their lives.
The worsening outbreak of COVID-19 has left many scared about what an uncertain future may hold. For many, especially children, it can be a frightening time.
But for those of us who are Christian parents, let’s remember that our children are watching how we respond. We have an opportunity to help our kids learn to practice their faith in the midst of fear. And sometimes, our kids have something to teach us.
One adorable video in particular has warmed the hearts of many across the nation.
The coronavirus pandemic has turned life upside down and inside out.
A significant number of Americans are self-quarantining, the stock market is roiling, many if not most schools are closed, tourism and travel have grounded to a halt and many states have even forced restaurants to shut down or suspend in-person dining.
As a result, families are increasingly weary, anxious, uncertain and stressed.
And that’s just after a trip to your local grocery store!
Can you relate?
Skyscrapers are amazing feats of engineering. They have to be strong enough to resist the forces that come against them, like gravity and wind. That’s why skyscrapers are built with steel.
They also need to be flexible enough to withstand the forces that come against them … like gravity and wind. That’s why architects design skyscrapers with a certain amount of sway.
Strength and softness. The two sides of a superstructure. The two sides of love as well.
Do you have a “barely enough” marriage?
Would you like to have one that is “filled to the brim”?
John 2:1-11 tells the story of the wedding at Cana, where Jesus turned water into wine. A marriage celebration was underway, and the host ran out of wine. At the urging of his mother, Jesus instructed the servants to fill six stone jars, each holding twenty to thirty gallons of water.
The passage says that the servants filled the pots “to the brim.” Those three words offer a revealing insight into the approach God wants us to take in our relationships.
The new and rapidly escalating COVID-19 outbreak has left families with far more questions than answers. As developments unfold hour by hour, it’s important to take a deep breath and remember that the Lord continues to hold dominion over every aspect of creation. Psalm 33:11 says, “The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plans of his heart to all generations.”
As I met with the Focus on the Family team this morning, I shared that the Lord’s words, “Do not be afraid,” have been at the forefront of my mind during prayer.
When Duck Dynasty’s Lisa Robertson was 16 years old, an abortion provider promised her that she was dispensing with a glob of tissue, would leave the clinic that day as good as new, and would never think about that moment again.
None of that was true.
Lisa immediately felt guilt about her decision. She sensed deep inside that something profoundly significant had just happened.
Years later, after she and Al married, she became pregnant with their first child.
I’ve grown accustomed to interviewing guests on the Focus on the Family radio program, a daily treat for me now for over 10 years. But it’s always an honor to have the tables turned and be on the receiving end of the questions.
Late last month, I had the pleasure of being a guest on a podcast called “Beyond the Crucible.”
The show is hosted by Crucible Leadership founder Warwick Fairfax and my longtime friend and former Focus colleague Gary Schneeberger.
The Bible encourages us to manage our emotions.
Proverbs 15:18 says, “A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger quiets contention.”
Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be known to God.”
Identifying and managing emotions can be challenging for adults. How much more difficult is it for children?
Kids experience big feelings inside little bodies and can easily be overwhelmed and confused by their feelings.
Will you add your name to the #IAmProLife map to show the world that you believe unborn children are worthy of protection?
Melissa Ohden survived a saline infusion abortion. The hospital staff who carried out her abortion believed she had died until they heard her whimpering on the delivery table. Melissa is alive today because a nurse cared for her after she survived delivery.
Yet, would you believe that in more than twelve states, it’s legal for doctors to neglect newborns who survive abortions?
Jim Daly is a husband, father and President of Focus on the Family and host of its National Radio Hall of Fame broadcast. His blog, Daly Focus, is full of timely commentary and wisdom designed to help you navigate and understand today’s culture. His latest book is Marriage Done Right.
