Parenting Points
Every family has stories. We tell stories about funny vacation moments, memorable holiday disasters, how Mom and Dad met, and what grandparents did when they were young. These stories become part of our family’s identity. They remind us of where we came from and connect one generation to another. But another category of family stories we should make sure our children hear is the stories of God’s faithfulness.
Throughout Scripture, God repeatedly commands His people to remember. Psalm 78:4 calls us to “tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done” (ESV). God knew how easily people forget. One generation could experience His incredible provision, while the next might know nothing about it unless someone told the story. The same can happen in our families. Do your children know about the prayers God answered before they were born? Have they heard about the difficult season when God provided exactly what your family needed? Do they know how you became a Christian? Have you told them about times when you struggled with your faith, faced an uncertain future, or watched God open a door you never expected? These stories don’t have to be dramatic to be significant. Perhaps God provided a friend during a lonely season. Maybe He gave you peace during a difficult decision. Perhaps someone showed unexpected generosity when finances were tight. Maybe a disappointment eventually led your family somewhere you never would have chosen, but you’re now grateful God led you there.
November provides a natural opportunity to tell these stories. As Thanksgiving approaches, consider going beyond asking everyone to name something they are thankful for. Ask instead, “Where have we seen God at work this year?” You might even begin a family tradition of writing those stories down. Keep a journal of answered prayers and moments of God’s provision. Read previous entries each Thanksgiving. Invite grandparents and older relatives to share stories of God’s faithfulness from their lives. Our children will eventually face seasons when God seems distant, and the future feels uncertain. In those moments, they will need more than abstract truths. They will need reminders that the God they are being asked to trust has proven faithful before. One of the greatest gifts we can give the next generation is a collection of stories that declares, “We have seen God work.” Tell those stories often. When we remember what God has done in the past, we find the courage to trust Him with whatever comes next.
-Dr. Ben Birdsong
Writer and Speaker
Director of European Expansion for First Priority Global Ministries
