What’s Your Message?

What’s Your Message?

Lynn Cowell

My heart breaks when I see my girls struggle. It’s hard to watch them navigate the treacherous waters of high school relationships, especially when waves of rejection slam against their hearts. I often feel like I’m in the storm with them. Why do I feel vulnerable when I see the tears in their eyes?

Perhaps it’s because memories of my own turbulent teen years are not too far removed. It’s all too easy to recall the confusion, pain, and slights of that era in my life. However, along with the difficult memories, I am also aware of deep gratitude for those growing years. I’m so thankful God sent amazing friends into my life when I was a young woman. I’ll never forget the ones who helped me discover that no man could fill the love gap in my heart. Only Jesus could fill what He created.

I am also thankful God placed me in my daughters’ lives to share this truth with them. You see, when Jesus showed me He was the only One who could satisfy the emptiness of my heart, He didn’t just give that truth for me. Jesus offered me His truth so I could pass on His radical love to my kids—and perhaps even my grandkids one day. Deuteronomy 4:9 affirms that we have opportunity and influence in the lives of our children and others.

What is one truth God has revealed that you can pass on to your children, your children’s children, or young people in your world? Are there revelations or treasures from His Word, glimpses into His heart that He’s given to you? If so, they are not just for your benefit, but also for your family and those in your sphere of influence.

Has the Lord given you a clear understanding of forgiveness? Teach your child the process of working through a grudge. Have you experienced the Lord’s healing? Come alongside those in your life as they mend. Do you cling to hope because God has lifted your spirits? Share that with another who’s in the middle of grim circumstances.

Don’t take for granted all the Lord has done in your life. Instead, take the message He’s given you and share it with others, intentionally passing on the truth and stories of God’s faithfulness for generations to come.

Dear Lord, help me to be intentional in sharing the truth You have revealed to me. Help me to make the most of the message You’ve given me by passing that truth to the next generation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

REMEMBER

God has taught you His truth not just for your benefit, but also for your family and those in your sphere of influence.

REFLECT

What two or three truths has the Lord made real to you through the experiences of your life?

RESPOND

Briefly identify the times and situations in which your child is most open to spiritual conversations. Use the next opportunity to share with your child one of the truths the Lord has made real in your life.

POWER VERSES

Deuteronomy 6:6–9; Ephesians 6:4