Influencing children is an essential aspect of parenting, as this can be a powerful way to instil values and principles. Here are some strategies to influence their lives positively along with relevant scripture:

1. LEAD BY EXAMPLE: Dear parent, your actions speak louder than words. Therefore, live your life in a way that your children can see and emulate.
   Be a role model. Children learn by observing their parents. Therefore demonstrate the qualities and behaviors you wish to instill in them.

Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

Also (Matthew 5:16) Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

2. TEACH THROUGH STORIES: Share biblical stories and parables with your children, Discuss its teachings and help them know how to apply the lessons in their lives.

_Deuteronomy 6:6-7 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.
_
“( _2 Timothy 3:16 ) All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

3. PRAY TOGETHER: Pray with your children regularly, both individually and as a family, inviting God’s presence and guidance into your lives. Also, teach them how to pray, and let them know the purpose of bringing their joys, issues, and requests before God daily. This will give you peace and help them in the future.

Philippians 4:6: Be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”

Matthew 19:14: But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.

4. SHOW UNCONDITIONAL LOVE: Demonstrate love, acceptance, and forgiveness toward your children, just as our Heavenly Father loves us. Do not compare them or show favouritism among them.

1 Corinthians 13:4-5 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;

5. MEMORIZE THE SCRIPTURE: Encourage your children to memorize verses from the Bible that symbolize important principles and values. Also, connect the scriptural teachings to real-life situations.

” Psalms 119:11: Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

6. ENGAGE IN OPEN COMMUNICATION: Create an environment where your children feel comfortable expressing their thoughts. Listen attentively, show empathy, encourage them to ask you questions and be ready to provide guidance and wisdom when needed.

Read Proverbs 18:13: He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.

7. PROVIDE GUIDANCE AND CORRECTION: As a parent, you need to offer loving guidance and correction when needed, using biblical principles as a basis to instil discipline and moral instruction.

Ephesians 6:4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

8. ENCOURAGE COMPASSION: Teach your children the importance of kindness and compassion as a family. Involve them in community service projects and encourage unity among them.

According to 1 Peter 4:10 1: As every man hath received the gift, even s,o minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

And lastly, Give your children quality education and be available when they need you.

Remember, as parents, your ultimate trust and reliance on raising and influencing our children should be in God. Seek His guidance and wisdom as you influence their lives. Furthermore, incorporating scriptural guidance into your parenting approach will help you to influence them in ways that nurture their spiritual growth, moral development, and relationship with God.

Written and illustrated by Edokpayi Omolola. F

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A Day of Thick Darkness
A Day of Gloominess
A Day of Clouds
A Day of Calamity
A Day of Mourning
A Day of Destruction
A Day of No Escape for the Wicked

So, make an alarm and tell others that there is a Day of the Lord. Let everyone tremble because the Day of the LORD is at hand (Joel 2:1-12, 30-31).

A Day of Earthquakes, but the LORD will be the hope of His people and the strength of the children of Israel (Joel 3: 14-16).

A Day of Stumbling for the proud and all those who do wickedly.
A Day of Burning, where neither root nor branch will be left.
But unto you who fear the LORD, your name shall be saved (Malachi 4:1-2).

Turn back to the Lord and repent. The Day of the Lord is around the corner. It’s at hand, so be alert. Let us not be caught unprepared in Jesus’ name.

Question: When is the Day of the Lord? Will it occur before or after the Rapture has taken place?

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I have read and heard about the false accusations, the mockery, the lashes, the shame, the pain, and the death yet we still call the Friday a good one. Despite the suffering, I wonder why today is called Good Friday! Are you also in that shoe? Okay, let’s read.

This Friday is called “GOOD” because of:

1. The redemption and salvation it brought to mankind: Jesus’ crucifixion and death on Good Friday fulfilled the purpose of His coming to earth. Through His sacrificial death, He paid the price for the sins of humanity, thereby offering redemption and salvation.
   • John. 3:16 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
2. The forgiveness of our sins: Through Jesus’ suffering, we were granted the opportunity to receive forgiveness for our sins. Jesus willingly endured the punishment for sins, granting every one of us access to the Father.
   • (Isaiah 53:5). But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
3. The reconciliation of man with God: On Good Friday, the suffering of Jesus Christ reconciled humanity with God, restoring the broken relationship caused by sin. Through Jesus, we can now have a personal and intimate relationship with the Father.
   • (Romans 5:10). For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.
4. The heavenly access: Jesus’ suffering and death unlocked the way for believers to have direct access to God’s presence. Through Jesus’ sacrifice, believers can now approach God with confidence and commune with Him.
   • (Hebrews 10:19) Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,
5. The victory over death: Although Jesus suffered and died on Good Friday, His resurrection on Easter Sunday demonstrated his victory over sin and death. Through his resurrection, all who accept Jesus Christ untill death have the hope of eternal life.
   • (John 11:25-26).
     • Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:
     • And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?

All these Bible verses emphasize the profound purpose behind Jesus’ suffering and why Good Friday is called “Good.”

In conclusion, Good Friday is called “good” because it holds great significance and hope for all who believe in Jesus Christ as Lord.

If you have any other or more reasons why this Friday is called “good”, you can drop it in the comment section. You can also read more from https://www.crosswalk.com/special-coverage/easter/why-is-it-called-good-friday.html

By Omolola F. Edokpayi.

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2. PRIORITIZE RESPONSIBLE OR ACCOUNTABLE BEHAVIOR:
   Impress others through responsible conduct rather than engaging in unreasonable or irresponsible behaviour. Making wise decisions fosters respect and maturity, positively impacting those around you. Be responsible, accountable and prudent.

Proverbs 13:16
Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open his folly.

3. Embrace Diversity in Relationships:
   Refrain from avoiding people solely based on age. Recognize that each person, regardless of age, brings unique perspectives and experiences to the table. Embrace diversity, fostering a learning environment across different age groups.

4. VALUE DIFFERENT OPINIONS:
   Avoid dismissing opinions or experiences based on age differences. Appreciate that everyone’s thoughts hold value, irrespective of their age. Refrain from criticizing others’ thoughts based on age

5. LIVE IN THE PRESENT:
   Resist dwelling on past achievements excessively; it may give the impression of being stuck in the past. Embrace new experiences, live in the present, and eagerly anticipate the future for continuous personal growth.
2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

6. LET GO OF WORRIES:
   Follow the wisdom from Matthew 6:34; don’t worry about others’ opinions or the uncertainties of tomorrow. A balanced and worry-free approach to life demonstrates true maturity.

We need to understand that true maturity and personal growth manifest through wisdom, empathy, and a balanced life. Prioritize showing genuine respect and consideration for others. Avoid treating people with disdain, also positive interactions often leave a lasting impact.

Note: It is unnecessary to go around broadcasting your age. Instead, pray for evidence of your hard work and virtuous actions, reducing the need for constant explanations.

As the years progress, let the desire for a deeper connection with God grow. Live with purpose, letting your yes be yes and your no be no. Understand that pleasing everyone is impossible, so confidently express your decisions when necessary, backed by the evidence of doing what is right.

Staying open-minded, embracing technology, and maintaining a modern, active lifestyle contribute to a more vibrant and ageless demeanour.

*Prayer Point:* Psalm 71:9 – “Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth.”

Happy Birthday to the writer, Omolola Funmilayo Edokpayi and all January celebrants. May this year bring joy, fulfilment, and continuous growth in wisdom. (Amen).

The post HOW TO NAVIGATE LIFE CHAPTERS WITH WISDOM AND RESPECT AS YOU AGE. first appeared on ArtPreachiate.

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The world is noisy, and the significance of silence often goes unnoticed. Nevertheless, beneath the surface of our noisy existence lies a deep force—the power of silence. Silence, far from being a mere absence of sound, holds the possibility of transforming our lives. It serves as a sanctuary for reflection, allowing individuals to delve deep into their thoughts and emotions. In this calmness, the mind finds clarity, enabling self-awareness and a heightened sense of mindfulness. One amazing aspect of silence is its ability to communicate without words. In quiet realms, silence echoes unspoken words, yet is deeply heard. There is power in stillness. The world may abuse your moment of silence; however, there is power in it. http://medium.comh/the-value-of-silence-165f624a4672

“A time to keep silent, and a time to speak” (Ecclesiastes 3:7b).

Speak when it is necessary.

VALUE TIME

To everything, there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: (Ecclesiastes 3:1)

WHAT IS TIME?

Time is one of the concepts that govern life, dictating when people wake up, go to work, relax, and so on. It is a measure providing structure to our days. Time is a continuous flow that cannot be manipulated or controlled. Time serves as life currency, and its value cannot be overstated. It is a valuable resource, once spent, it cannot be regained. Moreover, it serves as a reminder of the temporary nature of life. https://www.goneminimal.com/value-of-time/

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU VALUE TIME?

Time allows us to create meaningful connections and memories, leaving a lasting impact on the world. Efficient time management enables productivity and a fulfilling life. The value of time empowers individuals to make conscious choices. So, value time this year and make the most of every moment. Appreciate the present by living with purpose and intention.

VALUE PRAYER

Prayer holds a profound power that extends into the realms of personal growth, resilience, and interconnectedness. It is a dialogue with the divine, a personal conversation that allows individuals to express gratitude, seek guidance, and find solace in moments of happiness or discomfort. Prayer is a source of strength in times of adversity. Whether facing personal challenges, illness, or societal turmoil, the act of prayer allows individuals to tap into a reservoir of stability and strength.

Amidst the chaos of daily life, cultivate a sense of inner peace, and take a moment to engage in prayer. Give time for reflection and stillness; it will become a refuge for you in due time. Furthermore, do not forsake the fellowship of the brethren because communal prayers serve as a shared heartbeat. In times of crisis, the unifying power of communal prayer often manifests as a force for positive change and solidarity.

Moreover, giving your life to Christ, walking with and working for Him daily, can positively affect your life because that is when our prayers can be fully answered.

For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.

1 Peter 3:12

Finally, the year is still young, so embrace the power of silence, value time, and find strength in prayer because these three things will help you in the journey of life.

By Omolola. F. Edokpayi

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