“Rock-solid security is found in the fear of the Lord, and within it one’s children find refuge.” Proverbs 14:26 ISV
In light of current events, I wonder if our homes are a haven for our children? Our vigilance must go beyond preventing minor illness or injury. There are more sinister threats to our families than a virus or a scraped knee. I’m talking about abuse, abduction, and human trafficking. This type of darkness is on the rise; we can’t bury our heads in the sand. My adult children are discovering the world is more dangerous as they mature. Our adult daughter heard stories from female friends about being sexually abused. She asked us why she was spared: her dad revealed, “we trusted noone when it came to our children.” Sound harsh, overprotective, or un-Christian?
Let’s consider the function of the family. Bill Gothard, known for the Institute in Basic Life Principles, teaches that God designed the family to be under an “umbrella of protection,” a canopy sheltering those underneath. Children beneath this covering of godly, protective parenting need not fear because they are shielded. As a wife, I am secure under the protection of my husband. My husband, in submission to Jesus Christ, abides under the protection of God. This is our Heavenly Father’s perfect design for the family. That was the stand we made regarding our children’s safety.
Have you ever had that “gut feeling” when your child, whether male or female, was invited to a sleepover or party? I have and heeded it as the voice of the Holy Spirit. Who knows what goes on behind closed doors, so we made sure our children were never in the position to be victimized by a friend, a relative, or a stranger. God grants discernment and wisdom; ask for it! (Eph 5:15-16 AMPC)
What’s next? Have I been trustworthy toward my children to build a relationship of trust with them? Do I give time to each child to talk about events and relationships that concern them? Does our family feel free to express struggles or differences? Am I praying for God’s physical and emotional protection of my child in relationships with authorities, teachers, coaches, friends, and family?
With Love,
Melissa
As a young mom and wife, I realized the blessing of older women in my life. I am praying for you - dear wife, mom, precious child of God - that Help Club is a community where you experience the love of our Savior so that you will make an eternal impact on those within and without your four walls. Allow us to take you by the hand to instruct, guide, and encourage you in this season of life called motherhood.
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