by Jeri Johnson
A The Kids & Me contributor
“...Be still, and know that I am God: ……” Psalm 46:10a KJV
In October, I had the privilege of attending the Women's Retreat in Lake Junaluska at the foot of the North Carolina mountains. The accommodation was great and the scenery was breathtaking. The mountains were majestic and the lake even housed two swans. Our study was "Be Still and Know That I Am God" (Psalm 46:10). Our meetings involved Bible study, worship and singing. We also had plenty of time for individual study and prayer. While I was there, my sister called me. She didn't know that I was at the retreat and wanted to discuss something that the president had said in a press conference. Just the mention of politics broke that sense of peace and tranquility. I quickly told her where I was, and informed her that I would call her when I got home. Upon returning home, I did call her; but I made the conversation as brief as possible.
After our conversation, I thought about how we let things distract us and take away our sense of peace. This also happens with our children. Bullying and the threat of someone with malicious intent invading our schools, neighborhoods and homes are a concern for most children. They need to know that whatever happens, God will be with them. If we teach them to step away from television, video games and cellphones, and instead to spend time with God, those things would become less of a focus. The knowledge that God is there to help with school, family dynamics, and dangerous situations is the most comforting thing that they can experience.
As we go through our daily lives, let us, along with our children, remember to set aside time to commune with God.
“Be anxious for nothing; but in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Phillipians 4:6-7).