Importance of Being Small

There is nothing I enjoy more than hiking in the mountains. I love being surrounded by towering trees, the musty smell of leaves under my feet, the sound of creatures scurrying in the brush. I enjoy the labor of a hike and then being rewarded with an amazing view: the panorama of craggy mountain peaks and the sweeping valley below. It's quiet and majestic. God's handiwork on display.

We recently took a trip to Washington to see the mountains outside of Seattle. The iconic view of the mountains surrounding the city was blocked because of smoke from fires in the north. As we drove farther out of the city and into the mountains, we started to see the peaks rise before us. We hiked beautiful trails, blanketed with wild flowers. One section of the trail had a magnificent view of Mt. Ranier. We marveled at it its snow capped peak, knowing that what we saw would have been even more amazing had there not been a smoky haze in the sky. 

Such experiences in creation remind us of an important truth: we are small.

In our daily lives as humans, it's easy to think that we are bigger than we are, that we rule our own kingdoms. The power of man seems invincible. We walk among the Babels our world has created—every day knocking down the old to build the new and better—and often marvel at their immensity. We develop amazing technology at a rapid pace, so impressive, we can't even lift our heads to look at creation around us. Humanity boasts of its discoveries, theories, and systems, and calls others to bow down in worship. With each check mark scratched on our daily lists, we can feel successful and accomplished. Some even look down on those who don't measure up or keep the pace or who aren't as "enlightened" as they are. Every day, we read accounts in the news of some new development or invention, some even going so far as to play the role of God in lives of others. 

And in all of it, we forget that we are dust.  

David wrote in Psalm 39: "O LORD, make me know my end and what is the measure of my days; let me know how fleeting I am! Behold, you have made my days a few handbreadths, and my lifetime is as nothing before you. Surely all mankind stands as a mere breath! Selah. Surely a man goes about as a shadow!" (vv. 4-6). 

Moses reflected on the brevity of life and the eternity of God: "Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. You return man to dust and say, “Return, O children of man!” For a thousand years in your sight are but as yesterday when it is past, or as a watch in the night." (Psalm 90:1-4).

Indeed, like the psalmists, we need to remember that we are dust. That we are not invincible. That we are the created and not the Creator. That we do not rule and reign over all things. That we are merely stewards of creation. That we are small.

As it says in Isaiah: "Do you not know? Do you not hear? Has it not been told you from the beginning? Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth? It is he who sits above the circle of the earth, and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers; who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them like a tent to dwell in; who brings princes to nothing, and makes the rulers of the earth as emptiness." (Isaiah 40:21-23).

Because we quickly forget, we need constant reminders. We need to be regular students of the Word, reading and studying to know more of our God and the splendor of his holiness. We need to get away from our carefully constructed lives and see the wonder of our Creator in the world he has made. We need to develop a right view of ourselves, as humble dependents, embracing our smallness and responding in worship to the One who rules, reigns, sustains, and determines the length of our days. The very same God who entered our smallness by taking on human flesh, "though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross." (Philippians 2:6-8). 

We are small. That is the truth. It is an important truth. We are dependent creatures which exist solely by the grace of our Creator. May our heart's prayer echo that of Moses: "So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom." (Psalm 90:12). 

Family Devotional Resources

With a new school year starting up, we find ourselves getting back into routine. We dig out the calendar that's been collecting dust all summer and start filling in the boxes again. We organize school supplies, set alarm clocks, and lay out the lunch making station. 

As much as we enjoy the lazy days of summer, we all know how important routines are for our children and for ourselves. Without routines, we bob from one thing to the next, like tubing down a river in the hot summer sun, directionless, spinning and swirling, at the mercy and whim of the current.

One of the routines that is easy to get out of is that of doing devotions with our children. Of reading Scripture with them and talking about what it means. Of theological instruction. Parents are a child's first and primary teacher and disciple-maker. Sadly, much of our disciple making gets set aside for the more urgent tasks of getting ready for school, homework, and driving to lessons and practices.

The truth is, we all have enough time in our day to spend doing devotions with our children. Some families might choose breakfast as their time, others might do it after dinner, and still others mind find bedtime to work best for them. Whenever you schedule it and however short or long you make it, make it part of your routine. While many other things we do with our children have temporary benefits, investing in their hearts has eternal significance. 

If you are looking for devotional resources to use with your children this new school year, here are a few of our favorites:

Training Hearts, Teaching Minds: Family Devotions Based on the Shorter Catechism

This is one we've used over and over and so often that the cover is bent and folded back! Each week there is a question from the Westminster Confession Shorter Catechism and throughout the week, the devotions explain the question and provide verses to look up and read. The author also has a similar devotional based on the Heidelberg Catechism. Age range: elementary to middle school, possibly even older.

The Ology: Ancient Truths, Ever New

This is a picture book that has short sections explaining theological concepts. Age range: elementary school.

Wise Up: Ten-Minute Family Devotions in Proverbs

This is a Christ centered devotional based on Proverbs that helps children understand specific proverbs but also how Christ is the only Wise One. Age range: elementary to middle school.

God's Names (Making Him Known) (Children Desiring God)

There are multiple books in this series. This one is a study on the names of God. Each chapter is only a few pages long and contains illustrations. It includes discussion questions and activities. Age range: elementary school

My ABC Bible Verses: Hiding God's Word in Little Hearts

This is one of the first devotionals we ever used. It has a Bible verse for each letter of the alphabet and an accompanying story about a child learning lessons about God and his word. There is a separate coloring book and curriculum we used as well. Age range: preschool to early elementary.

Big Beliefs!: Small Devotionals Introducing Your Family to Big Truths

This is one we are currently using. It goes through sections of the Westminster Confession and unpacks different theological concepts. The devotions are brief and include a passage of Scripture to read as well as discussion questions. Age range: upper elementary, middle, and even high school.

The Radical Book for Kids: Exploring the Roots and Shoots of Faith

I shared about this book a few months ago but because I love it so much, I wanted to share about it again. It's not a traditional devotional but we used it during our morning devotions. Each chapter focuses on a different aspect of Christianity and explains the faith using engaging graphics and illustrations. It includes sections not only on the gospel and specific theological terms but also Biblical history, missionaries, and my favorite—why children should clean their rooms. Age range: I read this to my elementary and middle school children.

Discovering Jesus in Genesis (Covenant Promises for Covenant Kids)

We used this book, as well as the one on Exodus, when the kids were younger. Each chapter is a story about three children and lessons they learn about God, his word, and his covenant with his people, as they spend time with a neighbor who teaches them about the book of Genesis. The children in the story apply what they've learned to daily struggles in their lives. There are discussion questions at the end of each story. Age range: Great for early elementary.

Grandpa's Box: Retelling the Biblical Story of Redemption

This is an old favorite of ours and one we did more than once. A grandfather has a box filled with little wooden figures he has carved. Each figure represents a story in the Bible. Each time his grandchildren come to visit him, he takes out a wooden figure and tells the story from the Bible it represents, helping the children see how each story fits into the bigger story of redemption. Age range: For use with elementary to possibly middle school.

One Year of Dinner Table Devotions and Discussion Starters: 365 Opportunities to Grow Closer to God as a Family

This is a devotional by Nancy Guthrie. If your children are beyond picture books and needing illustrations to look at, this is a great resource for devotions and for engaging in discussion with your children. Age range: middle and high school.

Note: I am a member of the Amazon Affiliates program and links to books in this post are connected to my affiliates account with Amazon.com. 

When Homeschool is Hard

Whenever I meet someone new, they inevitably ask what grade my children are in and what school they attend. When I answer that we homeschool, I often hear in response, "I thought about homeschooling once. For about five minutes. I decided not to because I just don't have the patience. I am impressed with anyone who can do it."

I smile and nod. Sometimes I leave it at that. Other times I tell them the truth, "Yes, it is hard. In fact, I quit about once a week." This usually makes them laugh.

But really, I do quit once a week.

To be honest, homeschooling isn't hard just because my patience gets stretched. It's hard because everything is stretched. The longer I do it, the more I realize what I've sacrificed. Because I homeschool, it means I'm not employed in my profession, the one I worked so hard to learn and attain. Because I homeschool, I miss out on engaging with other adults. People are often concerned that children who are homeschooled miss out on social interactions. The truth is, I miss out on social interactions. There are ministry opportunities I can't participate in. Not only that, but it's hard to squeeze in all the necessary things of life when your day is filled with lessons—like personal doctor's appointments. 

When my kids are having a hard day, when they resist their school work, when neither of us can figure out a math problem even after trying for an entire hour, when I'm tired, and when the day seems to drag on forever, I sometimes want to quit and take back my normal adult life. 

But then I remember all that my children have learned these past six years. I look at their academic growth and progress and I'm amazed at what they've learned and what we've all learned together. I reflect on the amazing things we've been able to see, do, and experience. The fantastic books we've read. The wonders of God's world we've explored. The Bible verses we've studied and memorized. The missionaries we've learned about. The ways my children have been able to stretch and move beyond a box like subject, age, or grade.

And especially when my kids turn to me and say, "Thanks Mom. I'm glad we are homeschooled."

Some might say, "Well if it's so hard, why don't you give up?" The truth is, anything we are called to do in life is not going to be easy. We shouldn't resist things simply because they are hard. If we did, no one would run a marathon, no one would finish medical school, and the gospel would not have spread beyond the walls of Jerusalem.

I never expected to homeschool and in fact, used to scoff at the idea. And I probably used to say the same things that people now say to me. Yes, homeschool is hard. No, it's not for everyone. It doesn't fit every family's situation. It's not the best educational option for every child. But it's also not something to give up simply because it is hard.

Whatever task God calls us to, we can be sure that He will be our wisdom and strength. He will make us sufficient for the work He gives us. We are weak vessels and nothing highlights that more than homeschooling—or parenting for that matter. Yet, God's glory shines as he works through us, doing the impossible through unlikely people.

Will I want to quit homeschooling next week? Maybe. Possibly. Will we homeschool until my children graduate? Maybe. Possibly. I really can't say. If we stop, it won't be because it's hard. It would be because God has called us elsewhere. Which, in all reality, will also be hard. God isn't concerned about what's easy for me or easy for my kids, but about what is best for our holiness. Whatever he calls us to, wherever he directs us, it will all be used to make us more like Christ.  

So the next time someone says, "I don't know how you do it. You must have the patience of a saint," perhaps I should say, "Actually, I don't. But if we keep at it, that might be just what God develops in me!"

Joe Shillington

Moms Need One Another

The Mommy Wars. It’s a term that’s been tossed around for a few decades now. It reemerges from time to time in the news, social media, and in the blogosphere and all the old conflicts and arguments reemerge as well. What are the "mommy wars?" They are conflicts between women over aspects of parenting: breast feeding vs. bottle feeding, co-sleeping vs. crib sleeping, stay at home moms vs. working moms, etc. Moms take sides on these issues and stand their ground against other moms. There’s finger pointing, judgment, and criticism.

Criticizing Other Moms

Scroll through social media and there are bound to be statements made on one side or other of the mommy wars. A friend might post an article about why breast feeding is best for babies. You might notice another mom friend pin a number of posts related to co-sleeping. Or you might see a friend comment on someone’s social media post, declaring their belief about some aspect of parenting. In all of it, you have some kind of emotional response. You might find yourself judging your friend for what they posted. Or you might feel guilty because you do something different.

As moms, we are quick to critique and criticize other mom’s choices in their mothering. We look down on those who don’t do what we think is right. We get frustrated with people who don’t work hard enough in their mothering. We have little patience for those who don’t bother to do their research and understand all the issues...to read the rest of this post, visit For the Family. 

Living in Mystery

I participated in a reading challenge this summer. The challenge was to pick up a book whenever you would normally scroll through social media. I found myself reading more than I have in a long while. I went to the library and came home with a stack of books and took them with me everywhere: the boy's sports practices, the doctor's office, the hair salon, etc. 

One of the genres I haven't read in a long time, but have always loved, is mystery. In elementary school I loved Encyclopedia Brown. Until I discovered Nancy Drew. Then I read every variation and reincarnation of Nancy and her pals, George and Bess. In high school, I had a job at my local library and discovered Agatha Christie. I then read every Agatha Christie mystery the library owned.

So this summer, I found myself rediscovering my love of a good mystery. When I read a good mystery, I find myself searching for clues alongside the investigators in the book. My mind questions and evaluates all the details in an attempt to figure out who committed the crime before the characters in the book do. And I have that eventual "I can't believe it!" moment when the book finally reveals the culprit at the end of the story.

I think we all find mysteries intriguing. They pique our interest and curiosity, our love of problem solving. If not in storybooks, then certainly in real life. We like to find out what's behind a closed door. When someone has an unanswered question, we research it until it's answered. And I for one am grateful for the scientists who pursue medical mysteries until they are solved.

But there are some mysteries that will remain unanswered. Some mysteries we have to learn to live with. Some mysteries we have to learn to appreciate, accept, and even embrace.

Those mysteries are the mysteries of God's unrevealed will.

Theologians use the terms "revealed will" and "unrevealed will" to describe the things we can know and not know about God and his work in our life and world. "The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but the things that are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law" (Deuteronomy 29:29). 

We live according to God's revealed will, what he has given us in his word. The Bible tells us all we need to know to live and glorify God in our life. His word tells us what is wise and what is foolish. It shows us our sin and our need for a Savior. It instructs us in what we need to know about who God is and what he has done for us. 2 Peter tells us God has given us everything we need for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3-4).

The things we don't know are God's hidden will. We don't know what will happen tomorrow. "The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps" (Proverbs 16:9. While we know Jesus will return one day to make all things new, we don't know when that will be. "But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only" (Matthew 24:36). We don't always know why or how certain circumstances have occurred in our lives, though we know they will all turn out for our ultimate good and God's glory (Romans 8:28). There are even theological truths that may be too complex for our human and finite minds to fully grasp; we just have to trust and believe what God says about them.

Living in mystery means yielding and submitting to the One who does know the answers to all the unknowns. It is a place of humility in which we acknowledge that we are creatures and God is creator. It is a place of child-like trust and faith, knowing that God will do what is best, out of his perfect love for us. It is a place that embraces and even finds joy in knowing that we don't know everything but that God rules and reigns over all things. Nothing can stop his purposes and plans; all things will come to pass exactly as he has designed them to. 

"Remember this and stand firm,
recall it to mind, you transgressors,
remember the former things of old;
for I am God, and there is no other;
I am God, and there is none like me,
declaring the end from the beginning
and from ancient times things not yet done,
saying, ‘My counsel shall stand,
and I will accomplish all my purpose,’
calling a bird of prey from the east,
the man of my counsel from a far country.
I have spoken, and I will bring it to pass;
I have purposed, and I will do it." (Isaiah 46:8-11)

So while mysteries are fun to read and while many of the unknown things in the world will be discovered and answered by historians, scientists, and inventors, there are things we can't know and God will not let us know. And that place of mystery is a safe place. As we wait and watch for God to move, we can trust, hope, and rejoice that he alone is God. He will work wonders in his perfect time. And in eternity, we can look forward to unwrapping the layers and layers of mystery, learning more and more about our holy and all-knowing God.

In the Case of an Emergency

For the last five years or so, my kids have taken Tae Kwon Do classes. After working hard at a sport for so long, it was exciting for all of us when they tested for black belt last month. 

The dojang where the test took place is a two story building. The students who were testing that day sat on the blue gym mats on the bottom floor while those watching the test gathered on the top floor where there was a railing overlooking down to the floor below. I leaned over the railing with all the other moms and dads and watched my kids demonstrate what they've learned these last five years. 

It took more than half an hour for them to go through all their forms. One after another, the group of twenty students stepped as one—kicking, slicing, jabbing, turning—doing the forms for each of the ten belts they had learned so far. They did so, following the instructions shouted out to them in Korean by one of the Masters.

Tao Kwon Do, like other martial arts, is a method of self defense. They say that just taking one self defense class isn't enough to protect yourself in the case of an emergency. That's because when we are in a crisis, we revert back to what we know best. Our minds aren't thinking clearly as adrenaline mixed with fear courses through our bodies. It's only if you've taken self defense classes for years that you are likely to use it to defend yourself in an emergency. This is also why schools practice fire drills every month—we respond with what we know best when faced with a crisis.

The same is true for us spiritually when we face a trial in our life. When a hardship or season of suffering comes upon us out of nowhere—when we are filled with anxiety, worry, fear, despair, and uncertainty—we respond to that trial with what our heart has practiced, what it knows best. Like rain water follows the crevices and paths already worn in the ground, our hearts will follow what we've studied and learned and meditated upon most.  

For believers, if we have not previously trained our hearts in God's word, if we have not studied and learned from Scripture about God's character, the how's and why's of trials in our lives, and the hope we have in Christ, our automatic response will not be to turn to those truths. We won't instinctively cling to the gospel. We won't turn to our Rock, Savior, and Deliverer; instead, we may panic. We might lay blame. We might turn to false comforts and counterfeit gods. We might lash out at others. 

In our most desperate moments of life, when we find ourselves unexpectedly faced with a crisis, our theology comes to the surface. What we really believe about God reveals itself out of the depths of our hearts. And in that moment, we discover if what we believe is firm enough to stand on or is a shifting sand that gives way to the next crashing wave.

If you don't know whether your theology would stand in a moment of crisis, take the time today to read and study what God's word teaches about who God is, his character, his works, his redemptive purposes in our lives. Learn about the ways he works in the world, his sovereignty over all he has made, and his faithfulness to do all he has promised. Study his promises and his fulfillment of those promises in Christ. Read Paul's letters and learn about the process of sanctification, the Holy Spirit's work in our hearts, and the role of discipline and instruction in our sanctification. Study Jesus' life and see how he responded to suffering, hardship, and sorrow. And most of all, look to the cross and see how Immanuel, God made flesh, became the Suffering Servant, and defeated sin and death in our place.    

Like the forms my kids practiced over and over, we need to learn and study God's word until it becomes part of us. Until our heart moves in rhythm with it. Until we know it so well, in the case of an emergency, it's the truth that leads us to a place of safety—our Savior. 

Jason Briscoe