"Never overlook the smallest incident in life, for great doors pivot on tiny hinges." - Warren Wiersbe
As a parent, grandparent, Awana leader, neighbor, aunt, uncle...or let's just say adult...every interaction with a child is a teachable moment. Our time together Sunday was focused on four key areas in the lives of our children which deserve special focus. As you interact with children today, consider these points to guide your time with them.
Intellectual - The mind is key to the transformation of the child so we are called to help children develop the right focus intellectually. We're to teach them to be critical thinkers without being critical. They are to aspire to apply knowledge to life which leads to wisdom. And remember, they learn from you with every interaction, not just when you're formally teaching them.
"And do not be conformed to the world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect." Romans 12:2
Physical - We often neglect our physical body as we consider our relationship with God. Our body is His temple. God lives in and through us in this world. How we care for the temple says a great deal about our relationship with the Lord.
"Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body." 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20
Spiritual - This is simple and complex at the same time. The simplicity lies in the call to point children toward God and lead them to Jesus. This is our primary challenge when interacting with children. The complexity lies in responding to those questions about spiritual matters for which we don't have simple answers. The best we can do is to help them learn to study the Scriptures and to take the opportunity to talk with Him through prayer.
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." Proverbs 9:10
Social - As you interact with any child, be keenly aware of the interactions they have with other children (their friends), their self image (are they humble?), their control of their wants and desires (self control), and how they feel about others (mercy and compassion). Always be seeking to prepare them for participation and interaction in the church and the world.
Blue Door"Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6
Today, tomorrow, and the next day, you'll have opportunities to interact with children. They may be living in your home, they may be neighbors, they may be grandchildren...when you do, remember that every interaction is a teachable moment and could become the hinge that swings their door open to the Lord and to a great life of serving.
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