Faithful Families Remember God’s Wonders | Psalm 111

“He has caused his wonders to be remembered….” —PSALM 111:4

In this day and age, it’s difficult to raise children. Our world is moving so fast with many varying factors putting families under intense pressure – emotionally, morally, financially, and spiritually. Recent statistics reveal that over one third of marriages in Canada and one half in the United States end in divorce. Many children don’t have an active father at all. Families are falling apart at a faster rate than ever before, but remarkably, we can go to the most ancient book in circulation, the Bible, and discover the most penetrating wisdom for family life in the 21st century.

Before crossing the Jordan River, Moses spoke to the people, saying, “Only be careful and watch yourselves closely so you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart for as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them” (Deuteronomy 4:9). For the Hebrew people, it had been a monumental journey from Egyptian captivity into freedom, and God wanted them never to forget. He provided miraculous memories for them to pass on from one generation to the next, not only to give their children an understanding and appreciation of their heritage, but to come to know God for themselves.  

In the Book of Deuteronomy, remembering plays a significant role as it does in our own lives, because to some extent, we are the consequences of our memories. They have a great bearing on the adults we become, and most certainly influence the way we raise our children. God wants us to build a strong foundation of good memories for our children, which would include quality time, family tradition and routine. When our children know what is coming they are not taken by surprise, and it gives them a sense of security in a safe, comfortable environment. Fond memories help to create a bond, establish roots and places ‘home’ in their hearts with lasting endearment.  

In years to come, our children can look back on those memories with the same sense of security and belonging, which they can pass onto their children. Of course, we need to use discretion in not giving them everything they want so that nothing is special. But most importantly, we need to give our children the benefit of knowing they are being raised with faith in God. We cannot give them a better foundation than that.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for your sound teachings in raising our children. Fond memories are something I cherish, and will be sure to give my children.

When I think back on my youth, what memories have helped shape the way I raise my children?