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Friday, February 14, 2014

“Bread or a Stone?”

Consider what Jesus had to say about bread and stones in Matthew 7:9-11.

You parents—if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead? 10 Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake? Of course not! 11 So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him.

Over my life, I’ve tried to eat a few pieces of bread that were as hard as a rock and didn’t taste much better.  As  recall, the experience wasn’t too enjoyable.  But as I pondered this passage, I was reminded of two things – 1) God, as our perfect Heavenly Father, never gives us a stone but always gives us bread; and 2) as an imperfect parent I have, at times, given my children a stone rather than bread. It’s that last part that I’m going to talk about on Sunday.  I want “Christian parents” to consider what they’re really giving their kids – bread or a stone?  Bread speaks of things that are biblical and godly, while a stone speaks of things that are not. We’ll examine seven topics and give parents an opportunity to ask, “So, in this area of life am I giving my kids bread or a stone?” As I conclude my message, we’ll turn our focus to Psalm 127:3-5 and ask how parenting can, at times, resemble archery.

“Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.”

See you Sunday!

pastor jamie PLEASE NOTE: This Sunday is Missionary Sunday.  On your way to church, pray for the Nordmeyers, the Briners, the Kreisels, the Canotes, the Shaws, and the Currys.  Also, come prepared to financially support their efforts as an extension of FFC!