Verses from Mama

Hearing God speak one Bible verse at a time.

Getting on the Right Train – An Effective Response to Anxiety

By 2 Comments

Psalm 148:13 “Let them praise the name of the LORD, For His name alone is exalted; His glory is above earth and heaven.”

An Effective Response to Anxiety

Dear Kids,

2020 has been a year of increased anxiety for many people. We live in stressful times, but soon after this year made its grand entrance the pressures only increased. COVID restrictions, unfamiliar work and social conditions, and an unprecedented election are only a few of the abnormal circumstances we’ve navigated. All of this, melded together with personal struggles and fear of the unknown, lends itself to sleepless nights, tension headaches, high blood pressure, and a general feeling of unease. But late one night as I tossed and turned, my head swirling like a tornado, I suddenly realized a good way to respond to my anxiety.

“What If” and “What Was” Questions Create Anxiety

As I reviewed my apprehensive contemplations I began to understand that most of them pertained to two trains of thought. The first related to “what if” questions. What if this happens? Or what if that doesn’t come through? Most, if not all, of these ideas were only speculation and not based on anything solid. But once I allowed my mind to board that train, the panicky thoughts came faster and faster until I had worked myself into a tizzy.

The next damaging train of thought had to do with “what was” reflections. “I wish it was like it was before.” “Those days went by so fast, and I wish I could have some of them back.” “Maybe if I had done things differently we would be in a better place.” This mindset also caused consternation and added to the swirl of emotions keeping me wide-awake.

Focus on “What is” With Thankfulness

Once I understood the trains of thought that were taking me on a wild ride of anxiety, I decided I better get off before my mind and body collapsed under the pressure. It was time to change my thought patterns and focus on healthy and life-giving truth. That’s when I decided to concentrate on “what is” in my life. There are so many things for which to be thankful; so many reasons to praise God. I must choose to fill my mind with these.

Psalm 148 calls us along with all creation to praise God. Part of praise is thankfulness. By thanking Him for “what is” in my life I diffuse the confusing torrent of “what ifs” and “what was” thoughts that produce such great anxiety. The Lord knows the future and has it under control. He also understands the past and walked with me through every circumstance. So there’s no point in second-guessing. It’s time to leave that behind. But “what is” is where I can find relief and peace.

Thankfulness is an Effective Response to Anxiety

There’s no denying it, we live in a stressful world filled with many anxiety-inducing situations. So what train are you on? If you find yourself moving at tremendous speeds on the “What if” or the “What was” Express, then disembark as quickly as you can. Refocus your thoughts on praising God. Soon you’ll find that gratitude for “what is” replaces uneasiness with peace. And thankfulness is a very effective response to anxiety.

Love,

Mama

If you like Verses from Mama, I invite you to click here and sign up to receive them straight to your mailbox.

God’s Way to the Top is at the Bottom

By 1 Comment

Mark 10:44-45 “ . . . and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give His life a ransom for many.”

God's Way to the Top is at the Bottom

Dear Kids,

How does a person make it to a place of prominence? Our world would say you do whatever it takes to fight your way to the top. But in God’s economy the way to the top is at the bottom.

Fall Sunday afternoons bring to mind so many peaceful feelings: enjoyment of a warm scrumptious meal with family, encouraging conversation around our large, Amish-made dining room table where everyone feels satisfied and loved, walks with good friends down a country road lined with glorious trees of changing colors, and the soothing sound of the football game droning on while I drift off to sleep in my comfy chair until the punctuated cheers of the sofa fans startle me out of my slumber.

Avid football fans have always intrigued me. These devoted followers wear the gear, decorate the house, scream encouragement, and rarely miss a game, always hoping their team will win.

Desire to be at the Top is a Natural Human Craving

This particular desire to be on top seems to be a natural human craving in more than just the realm of football. We often strive to be the best in our class, top achiever in our work, highly recognized in our circles, record breakers in our sports, and even sometimes the most respected in our churches. How else does one become successful if he or she doesn’t shoot for the top position?

More than once Jesus’ disciples expressed their desire for a place of prominence in God’s kingdom. One day James and John approached Him and solicited Jesus to do what they asked: give them the seats of honor at His right and left side in glory. Jesus told them they did not understand what they were asking. Could they drink the cup He had to drink? Could they be baptized with the baptism with which He was baptized? Even though these audacious men thought they could, Jesus informed them these positions were not His to give. Of course, their request annoyed the rest of the disciples who also wanted these positions of honor.

God’s Way to the Top is By Lowering Yourself to Servanthood

So Jesus called the grappling men to Himself and taught them a different method of becoming great than the world proposed. His route to the top was not by pushing yourself ahead. Instead, it involved lowering yourself to the status of a servant. He, Himself, would be the greatest standard of this manner of living. For the Son of God, the Creator of all the earth, came to this world not to be served, but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many. Anyone who was to be His disciple must follow His example.

In God’s economy, those who push themselves forward end up last. And those who take a back seat end up first. What a contrast to how we normally structure our lives! Instead of using all our resources to become the top dog and call all the shots, we are to humble ourselves and use our resources to serve others.

I know Autumn Sunday afternoons will always hold a special appeal for football fans. And I will probably always love the drowsy sound of the TV announcers calling the game. But when you nestle down on the couch to cheer your favorite team to the top of their division, make sure you don’t carry the mindset into the rest of life. If you want to be a follower of Jesus the way to the top is at the bottom.

Love,
Mama

If you like Verses from Mama, I invite you to click here and sign up to receive them straight to your mailbox.

How to Deal With Conflict and Gain Peace

By Leave a Comment

Mark 9:50 “Salt is good; but if the salt becomes unsalty, with what will you make it salty again? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.”

Dear Kids,

Deal With ConflictDoes anyone really love conflict? I know there are some who thrive on the drama of difficult circumstances and relationships. But I expect there are many more who would love to float through life without ever facing any kind of uncomfortable disagreement. This would be nice, but the Bible makes it clear that such ease will not be the norm. Life in a sinful world that is full of sinful people portends hurt and strife. We will need to deal with conflict. And in order to attain peace we must embrace the painful path.

Different Ways to Deal With Conflict

All of us deal  with conflict differently. Some, with feet planted and fists clenched, like to face it head on. These ones are ready to protect and fight to the end. And that is often what happens. Harsh words fly, hearts shrivel, and souls die a painful death.

Others defend themselves by running away and avoiding the fray at all costs. In their minds they think this will guard against hurt and preserve the peace. But these responses are wrong also. The painful emotions caused by misunderstanding take root in the heart spreading cancerous bitterness that over time erodes even the best of relationships.

If you want to experience peace in a confusing, hurtful, disappointing world there is only one way to do it. It is to walk the path of conflict courageously with wisdom, grace, and love. This thorny trail is risky. But the benefits are reconciliation and life.

Interpersonal Struggles Have Been Around Since the Fall

Interpersonal relationship struggles have been around since Adam and Eve chose to disobey God. Even Jesus had to deal with them while here on earth. His closest band of followers struggled just as we do. One day they were travelling to Capernaum and on the way the twelve argued over which of them was the greatest.

Jesus could have blasted these prideful men for thinking so highly of themselves, or He could have avoided the conflict by trying to change the subject. Instead Jesus appropriately addressed the heated discussion and used it as a teachable moment.

How Did Jesus Deal With Conflict

First, Jesus waited for the right timing. He did not enter the fray in the public arena, but delayed until they were inside a house and could speak privately. Next, Jesus gently questioned His disciples about what they had been discussing on the road. The disciples knew they were wrong and were embarrassed, so they kept quiet and didn’t answer.

Instead of accusing and belittling these men because of their misconduct, Jesus sat down with them and explained that the way to become great is to be a servant of all. To help them understand He demonstrated His point by taking a child in His arms and showing the kind of humility they must maintain to reflect Christlikeness.

The Benefits of Dealing With Conflict Appropriately

Many more missteps took place during those days as Jesus trained His disciples, but each time the Lord gently guided them to the right way of thinking and acting. They were to salt the earth with prudence in their dealings with each other and all people. This salt would be the very ingredient necessary to preserve relationships and share the gospel of peace successfully with the world.

We will always be confronted with conflict on this sinful earth. How we deal with it will make all the difference. Do not run away. Do not go toe-to-toe only to defend your self-interest. Instead, when appropriate, gently and humbly enter in with love and grace. This painful path is what leads to interpersonal healing and gives us opportunity to promote the gospel of peace. This is the salt that seasons the earth.

Love,
Mama

If you like Verses from Mama, I invite you to click here and sign up to receive them straight to your mailbox.

Finding Joy in Change

By Leave a Comment

2 Corinthians 3:18 “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.

Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/larisa-k-1107275/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=image&utm_content=19830">Larisa Koshkina</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=image&utm_content=19830">Pixabay</a>

Finding Joy in Change

Dear Kids,

Facing change is a necessary part of life. Every day things change all around us. From the weather to the seasons to our personal circumstances and environments, the inevitable takes place. And we must all adapt to this natural ebb and flow. While these transitions may sometimes bring feelings of sadness, there are other times when we can find joy in change.

Change Can be a Time of Sadness and Loss

Recently I have entered a major season of change. Not only have my children left home, leaving me to feather an empty nest, but other unexpected changes have occurred too. In the past year two of our long time neighbors have sold their homes. Driving by these familiar houses daily brings a touch of sadness stemming from the changes in our neighborhood.

Also, our beloved dentist who has cared for our teeth for close to thirty years – and Dad’s for over forty – has retired. We are now left to find another to take his place. Two large family businesses in the area that we have patronized closed their doors. A family member has died, a pastor moved on, and a number of parents we’ve developed relationships with at school functions have chosen to move away now that their kids have graduated. These changes and more have produced deep emotions as I ponder the losses.

Finding Joy in Change

But change doesn’t always create melancholy. Sometimes change is a reason to rejoice. Those who believe in Jesus and become part of His family begin a journey of transformation that lasts for a lifetime. God, who slowly transforms us into the image of His Son, brings about these changes. As we peer into the mirror of His Word and behold the glory of the Lord, the Holy Spirit renews our heart and minds. We begin to love the things the Lord loves, and our actions and attitudes respond accordingly. The old us fades away and the new us rises to the surface. This process of intently gazing on Jesus through the Word reproduces His image within us.

Over time those closest to us will observe the changes. A nasty temper gives way to patience and understanding. A covetous nature becomes more content. A bitter heart melts into joyfulness. An angry spirit is revived by forgiveness. These character shifts and more reveal the positive changes the Holy Spirit is making in our lives.

Focus on Personal Changes that Last for Eternity

So while you and I will regularly face the ebb and flow of sentimental changes in our life’s journey, we do not need to sink into despair. Instead of focusing on the temporal fluctuations in our everyday experience, pray for the Holy Spirit to bring about the personal changes that will last for eternity. Preoccupy yourself with the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ and little by little you will be transformed into His very image. Those changes are ones in which we can all rejoice.

Love,

Mama

If you like Verses from Mama, I invite you to click here and sign up to receive them straight to your mailbox.

What’s Really Behind Your Mask?

By 1 Comment

Jeremiah 17:9-10a “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? I the LORD search the heart . . .” (NIV)

Dear Kids,

What's Really Behind Your Mask?

What’s Really Behind Your Mask?

We now live in a world where masks are an everyday reality. Every time you engage with someone – whether at work, school, or store – everyone wears a mask to protect themselves and others. But is this really very different than what has always been?

The other day I took my weekly grocery shopping trip into town. While in the store I ran into four people I thought I knew. I didn’t recognize any of them at first because half of their face was covered, but after scrutinizing their other physical characteristics, even one person’s sandaled feet, I realized they were acquaintances. It took some time and effort to recognize these individuals because I couldn’t see an important part of their face.

Creativity With Your Masks

Since the mandate to mask up, I’ve also noticed a wide variety of creativity. I’ve come across big toothy smiley faces, scary monster grimaces, animal snouts, and masks with various messages. Each of these is meant to draw attention to the wearer and evoke some sort of response, but no one really knows the true sentiment behind the cloth cover.

This may seem like a new and strange development in our COVID-19 world, but people have been masking up for years. Some of the seemingly happiest people I’ve known have struggled with debilitating depression within the recesses of their inner self. Other ultra-charismatic people sometimes have ulterior motives. Their smooth and well-timed words may be meant to induce the response they want from the hearer. What we initially see in people is not always the truth of their character.

God Sees Behind Your Mask

Although we can’t always discern what’s behind the masks people wear, there is Someone Who can. God is not fooled by a laughing face cover trying to disguise tears. Likewise, He never capitulates to smooth talk and calculated actions meant to use others for personal gain. He sees directly into the soul and discerns the deepest hurts and truest motives. This can be a scary thought if your heart is not right. But it is also very comforting when others don’t get you or understand your broken heart.

I’m sorry to say that for now it looks like masks are around to stay for a while. So keep your creative stash handy and available for all occasions. But while you must keep your mouth and nose covered for safety’s sake, be careful not to cover up the true sentiments of your heart. Friends and family may not always see the real you, but there is Someone who does. And not even a mask will fool Him.

Love,

Mama

If you like Verses from Mama, I invite you to click here and sign up to receive them straight to your mailbox.

Finding Space in Your Life for God’s Peace

By Leave a Comment

Philippians 4:6-7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Dear Kids,

Clearing out the clutter makes room for peace!

Do you want to experience God’s peace in your life? Then it’s time to do some mental housecleaning and clear out unwanted clutter.

I happen to be an organization fanatic. Deep down inside I have a need for things to be in order and find it hard to function if things are cluttered and out of place. Even performing the simplest of tasks, like making lunch, can’t happen until the counter is clean. Some call this OCD. I just call it survival.

Make Space in Your life

While I may be over the top with this functionality essential, I think it is appropriate to say that in order to enjoy certain things in life you need to make some space. For example, if you want a drink of lemonade, you must have an empty glass so you can fill it with the chosen beverage. Adding lemonade to a glass of water will dilute the refreshing flavor you were hoping for.

Recently I decided to make one of our now unused bedrooms into a cozy den and work room. In my mind’s eye I envisioned a peaceful space with a small loveseat, television, and a sizeable table for Bible study or other projects. But in order to reach this goal, I first must rid the room of everything that won’t help me reach my goal. Closets need to be cleaned out and unwanted furniture removed. Once the room is clear I can begin to fill it with the accouterments needed to create my calming space.

Clear Out Mind Clutter to Experience God’s Peace

This concept applies to our mental capacity as well. In order to embrace appropriate thoughts and emotions, we need to take inventory of what is in our mind and clear out the clutter. When my heart is full of worry and anxiety I am not focusing on God and His power. Biblical truths are squeezed out by frantic imaginings and desperate attempts to control the situation.

The way to experience God’s peace that transcends our understanding is to do some mental housecleaning. The peace comes when we obey the first part of today’s verses. We must present our requests to God by prayer and petition with thanksgiving. I think of it as taking all the cluttery anxieties that clog up my mind and releasing them into God’s hands. Sometimes I even make a list of my worries on paper in one column and a list of things related to the situation for which I am thankful in another column. This practical exercise helps empty the chamber of my mind and free it up for God’s peace to flow in. And let me tell you, it is refreshing!

Our Minds Need Constant Supervision

As with all things this is not a one-time procedure. When I finish fashioning my cozy den, I will continually need to clean up and put things in their place to keep it free from untidiness. Our minds also need constant supervision. It’s important to check daily for mental clutter and keep it under control through prayer and thanksgiving. This is how to maintain the calm and tranquility the Lord offers.

Do you want to experience God’s peace in your life? It’s free and it’s there for the taking. All you need to do is some mental housekeeping. Clear away all your unwanted anxiety through prayer and thanksgiving. Present your requests to God.  And this will make room for God’s perfect peace.

Love,

Mama

If you like Verses from Mama, I invite you to click here and sign up to receive them straight to your mailbox.

Be A “Masker” – Protect Your Health, Your Heart, and Your Mind

By Leave a Comment

Colossians 3:2 “Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things.”

Dear Kids,

Protect Your Health, Heart, and Mind

Danger is always a good incentive to take extra care. The recent spread of the COVID-19 virus has gotten people doing things and not doing things they hadn’t even thought about before. That is why Abigail and I recently entered the ranks of mask-wearing patrons.

Wearing a Mask for Protection

Saturday morning Abigail and I watched a YouTube video to learn how to create our own perfect mask. We each chose a colorful bandana – I always knew these would come in handy one day – and folded it according to the simple directions. After sliding a rubber band onto each side and folding a little more we were ready to suit up and go.

I must admit the two of us had some good laughs over our fancy headgear. We even wondered if we’d actually have the nerve to go out in public wearing them. But the desire for safety finally out ruled our fear of looking foolish.

We drove to town, gathered our courage, and marched into the store on a mission. In only a few minutes I had mastered the art of keeping my eyes focused straight ahead and choosing the deserted aisles to get to where we wanted to go without being seen. Only once did Abigail and I make eye contact in the vitamin aisle and break into peals of laughter at our ridiculous new look. But fortunately nobody noticed because other than shaking shoulders we hid our mirth behind the mask. When it came time to checkout, the other “maskers” gave us the courage to act normal and do what needed to be done as quickly as possible.

Protect Your Health, Heart and Mind

I couldn’t help thinking about our recent measures for extra protection from germs and wonder why more people don’t take similar severe measures to protect their minds and hearts. The Apostle Paul reminded the Colossian believers that since they had died and been raised with Christ, they must set their mind on things above rather on earthly things. As Christians they and we have a new identity in Christ. So we must put to death everything that belongs to our old earthly nature.

We must not allow sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed to be part of our lives anymore. We must take great care to protect ourselves from all forms of anger, malice, slander, and filthy language by replacing them with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. This is not always easy to do in a world infected with the evil germs of sin.

This is why you must think of ways to protect yourself. Take all precautions necessary to keep your heart and mind clean. You may not be able to wear a bandana mask, but you can protect your mind by only watching wholesome movies, and putting filters on your computer to ward off pornography and other harmful media. Develop a plan to keep yourself from getting into compromising situations with a boyfriend or girlfriend. Or if married choose to put up hedges to guard your heart.  Work hard to be thankful so jealousy and greed don’t infect your contentment. Stop anger short by keeping forgiveness nearby. And always tell the truth so the consequences of lies won’t affect you.

Stay Strong in Your Convictions

Keep in mind that there may be times you feel foolish for making strong decisions. Peer pressure may push you to give in. But stay strong to your convictions. Set your mind resolutely on things above, and God will reward you with His perfect peace. Not only that, but you will spend eternity with Him in glory because your life is hidden in Christ, .

Danger from the COVID-19 virus is a good incentive to take extra precautions. You may even want to check out YouTube and create your own colorful mask. But don’t forget about your mind and heart. These are at risk every day of your life and you must protect them just as carefully as you protect your physical health.

So join Abigail, me, and all the other “maskers.” Develop a plan for safety. Put on your spiritual protection equipment and keep those germs away!

Love,

Mama

If you like Verses from Mama, I invite you to click here and sign up to receive them straight to your mailbox.

Social Distancing and a Friend Who Sticks Closer Than a Brother

By Leave a Comment

Proverbs 18:24 “A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”

Dear Kids,

Isolation really stinks! Who would have ever dreamed a year ago that this Easter season we would be hunkered down in our houses avoiding contact with those we love? Today’s proverb takes on new meaning in light of COVID-19. Wisdom for today says, “Those who meet with any of their companions may come to ruin . . . but thank the Lord there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”

Social Distancing Creates Times of Loneliness

We have all experienced times of loneliness. Certain seasons of life lend themselves to disconnection and lack of close companionship. These past weeks have been one of those times. While it is a blessing to have social media, Zoom meetings, and FaceTime, nothing can really take the place of face-to-face physical interaction. You can’t give a big hug to your grandchildren over the airwaves or feel the affirmation of a warm and understanding squeeze through the phone. But for the sake of protection we choose to discontinue any regular meetings, communicate through windows to elderly family members in care facilities, wave from a distance when spying a friend in a local store, and avoid the neighbor when taking a walk. It’s helpful to slow the spread of germs, but it really stinks!

Yet no matter how bad this 2020 pandemic gets we never have to be in complete and total isolation. There is a friend who can override the 6-9 foot rule. This friend sticks closer than a brother even when you even need to quarantine from other family members. He is never affected by the coronavirus or any other results of sin, and He promises to never leave us or forsake us. This friend is Jesus.

Jesus is a Friend Who Sticks Closer Than a Brother

In John 15 Jesus called His obedient disciples His friends and made known to them all He heard from His Father. And He still shares the secret of the Lord with those who fear Him while continually keeping His covenant of faithfulness. After all, He laid down His life for us so we can be sure He will not forsake us now.

Are you feeling alone and isolated? Then reach out to the best friend you will ever have. Listen to His secrets as He speaks through the Bible. Talk to Him in prayer while taking your daily walks. Memorize His words as you sit eating your meals. Stretch your hands upward as you praise Him for His constant faithfulness. Soon you will experience His gentle touch as He makes you aware of His very real presence.

Isolation really stinks! But maybe during this time of social distancing we will discover a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Maybe the coronavirus will reintroduce us to Jesus!

Love,

Mama

If you like Verses from Mama, I invite you to click here and sign up to receive them straight to your mailbox.

How To Be The Right Kind Of Wise Guy

By Leave a Comment

James 3:13 “Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom.”

How To Be The Right Kind Of Wise Guy

Are you the right kind of wise guy?

Dear Kids:

Are you a wise guy?

Wisdom is a virtue for which we all should strive. But usually someone referred to as a wise guy thinks more of himself than he should. This particular person always has the answers and won’t listen to reason. He highlights his own cleverness by using smart retorts and sarcastic remarks to belittle others. Worldly wisdom of this sort does not endear itself to people or originate with God. If you want to be the right kind of wise guy then you must seek the wisdom from above.

Worldly Understanding is Man’s Natural Default

Worldly wisdom – labeled earthly, natural, and demonic – is fallen man’s natural default.  Jealousy and selfish ambition characterize it. Those who only promote themselves usually step on others to get what they want. They arrogantly ignore personal foibles and exalt themselves without thought of the relational consequences. Sadly, these wise guys who make it to the pinnacle suddenly find the space is small. They are alone and miserable. The downward spiral of their lives creates chaos and every evil thing.

Wisdom From Above Seeks Peace

Wise guys pursuing the wisdom from above have different goals. This wisdom is characterized by purity, peace, gentleness, reason, and abundant mercy. In humility these reach out to others with a willingness to grow in knowledge and promote goodwill. They are skilled at handling people and even under provocation gently seek to restore peace. This wise guy or gal represents Christ well through the power of His Spirit who gives the grace needed to live in this way. The results are a peaceful heart and the fruit of righteousness.

What Kind Of Wise Guy Are You?

We all know both types of people – those who have used us or ignored us and those who have made us feel loved and important. The real question is what type of person are you?

Do you struggle with jealousy and selfish ambition? Consider the consequences. Choose to reject worldly wisdom that tempts you to advance only your own personal interests. Instead ask God to give you the grace you need to pursue His standards. Your good behavior and deeds done in the gentleness of wisdom will please God, bless others, and prove you to be the right kind of wise guy!

Love,

Mama

If you like Verses from Mama, I invite you to click here and sign up to receive them straight to your mailbox.

A New Genealogy: Children of the Light

By 2 Comments

Ephesians 5:8-10 “ . . . for you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light (for the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth), trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord.”

Dear Kids:

Recently there has been a growing interest in the study of genealogy. Improved technology and DNA testing has created previously unknown avenues for a person to open up the world of the past and find out more about their ancestors.

4-H Genealogy Project

For years Dad has had a great interest in his family’s history. Starting at the age of thirteen when he took a 4-H genealogy project to the county fair, his love of searching out the past has grown. He has visited different counties, graveyards, and libraries. He has talked to numerous people in order to glean any small detail related to the names and histories of those who came before him.

This is a worthwhile hobby for more than one reason. Certainly it is fascinating to discover the names of great-great-grandparents and fill them in on a family tree, but the study can also give us an insight into who we are and why we do the things we do.

Family Traits Passed To Future Generations

Family traits are often passed on from generation to generation. Not just physical characteristics, but also mannerisms and outlooks on life. This familial trend can have a positive side, but it can also have a negative side.

Negative ways of dealing with stress, thought processes about how to handle conflict, and destructive attitudes about others not like us can become rooted in our heart. These and more become part of the fabric of who we are and dictate how we respond to the world around us.

The negative effects of sin on our life could seem like a discouraging prospect. We have been born into a dark world filled with immorality, impurity, and greed. But there is great hope!

God’s Children Inherit A New Genealogy

When we accept the salvation Jesus Christ provided by His death and resurrection, we are reborn into a different family. No longer are we children of darkness, but now we are children of light in the Lord. The characteristics of this family are different than the one we were physically born into. These are goodness, righteousness, and truth.

While we will still display some of the negative effects of our past from time to time, these do not define us. God has promised to complete the work He started in us at the time of our new birth. He will teach us what pleases Him. Gradually our new self will reflect the traits of our heavenly Father more than any negative traits of our family’s genealogy.

Children of the Light

We all have a genealogical history, and today it is much easier to find out what that is. But don’t be discouraged if you recognize some of your own undesirable traits as coming from your parents. We were all born into darkness. Sin is part of our physical familial inheritance. But if, through Jesus Christ, you have been born into the family of God you now have a different genealogy and a different Father. Let your actions, attitudes, and responses to the world reveal what Ancestry.com cannot show. You are no longer a child of darkness. You are now a child of the Light.

Love,

Mama

If you like Verses from Mama, I invite you to click here and sign up to receive them straight to your mailbox.