GodlyParentingtips

Parenting That Points Beyond the Home

Is well-behaved the goal? Insights from Dr. Brian Cosby on raising covenant children and making your home a witness for Christ.

Most of us want well-behaved kids. But is that the goal?

In Colossians 3:18–4:1, Paul moves from who we are in Christ to how we live for Christ, and he starts with the household. It’s easy to miss how significant that is. Christians sometimes borrow family advice from the culture around us, then add “in Jesus’ name” on top. Paul isn’t doing that. Faith isn’t a coat of paint on ordinary parenting. It changes the foundation.

Dr. Brian Cosby, senior minister at Wayside Presbyterian Church in Signal Mountain, Tennessee, explores this in his essay Godly Parenting as a Witness to the World. A few of his thoughts stayed with me.

We’re raising covenant children

Our kids aren’t just future adults who need to succeed. They belong to God’s story, and our parenting has a purpose beyond getting through the day.

It’s daily, not occasional

Deuteronomy 6 describes teaching God’s Word when we sit at home, when we walk, when we lie down and when we rise. Faith gets passed on in ordinary moments, not only on Sundays.

Discipline and instruction go together

Ephesians 6:4 warns fathers not to provoke their children, but to raise them in the Lord’s discipline and instruction. Correction without teaching crushes. Teaching without correction leaves gaps. Children need both, wrapped in grace.

Our homes are a witness

According to Cosby, when parents raise children God’s way, the watching world sees something about God’s truth, love and wisdom. Christ is Lord of heaven and earth, so He is Lord of our homes too.

If you’re feeling the weight of it all, take heart. Cosby points to Philippians 1:6: the God who began a good work in our children will carry it on to completion. We rely on His grace, not our perfection.

A question for you this week: Where could you weave God’s Word into an ordinary moment with your child?

Inspired by Dr. Brian Cosby’s essay “Godly Parenting as a Witness to the World.” Please read the full piece for his complete thoughts.

A Prayer of Grace

Remember, every grace for parenting begins with the experience of the new birth. You cannot pour out what you have not received. Pray with me:

Father, I take personal responsibility for the home You have entrusted to me. I cannot raise my children in my own strength. Forgive me where I have been careless, impatient or prayerless. Give me grace to teach Your Word daily, to correct with love, and to model Christ before my children. Let my home bear witness to Your truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Prayer of Salvation

If you have never given your life to Christ, or you are not sure where you stand with God, you can begin right now. Pray this from your heart:

Lord Jesus, I come to You as a sinner. I believe You died for my sins and rose again on the third day. I repent and turn from my sins. Come into my heart, be my Lord and Savior, and make me a new creation. Thank You for saving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

If you prayed that prayer sincerely, welcome to the family of God! Find a Bible-believing church and begin to grow in His Word.

Remain ever blessed.

Jesus is Lord.

Stewardship and Steadfastness in Godly Parenting: Don’t Give Up Yet

Tired of the nagging child and the weight of parenting? Don’t give in yet. Discover why steadfast stewardship, backed by Proverbs 22:6, brings a reward now and after.

Are you tired of that nagging child?

Does the weight of parenting feel so heavy that it seems to crush you to your knees? Does it seem as if your struggles are peculiar to you alone? Are you worn down by the endless cycles of your child’s rebellion, and by the midnight hours spent on the altar of prayer and searching the Scriptures?

Tired looking mother kneeling in prayer beside a bed at night

If that’s you, I have good news today: don’t give in yet. Tarry a little longer. (1 Corinthians 9:24-25; Habakkuk 2:3)

Pull up a chair, because today we’re talking about stewardship and steadfastness in godly parenting.

First, what do these words mean?

Understanding the terms will give us clarity.

Steadfastness means being firm, resolute, and unyielding, staying loyal to a course, a belief, or a person without compromise.

Stewardship means being a servant, someone who serves the interest of another.

Put them together and you get a parent who trusts, receives, and believes what Scripture teaches about parenting, then puts it to work without compromise. (James 1:22-25; Genesis 18:19)

Proverbs 22:6 is a commandment, not a suggestion

Let me say this plainly. Proverbs 22:6 is a commandment to every believer, whether you’re a practising parent or still finding your feet. It isn’t an option, a tip, or a piece of advice. It’s a priority, and it must be obeyed if we want to raise godly children who will carry the banner of Christ tomorrow.

And because it’s a priority, we are called to be steadfast in our stewardship. In fact, where our steadfastness stops is where our stewardship stops. (Matthew 24:45-47)

The mark of a steadfast steward: endurance

A thousand small checkmarks. One quiet yes after another.

Scripture calls us to endure hardness (2 Timothy 2:3). Endurance is:

the ability to keep doing something difficult for a long time to reach a goal;
the ability to bear discomfort and suffering over the long haul for that goal;
the discipline of keeping your body under subjection again and again, which is self-denial (1 Corinthians 9:24-25);
refusing to faint while doing the work of God.

Your labour is not in vain

Here is the encouraging part. Every steadfast parental steward has a two-way reward, now and hereafter. (Habakkuk 2:3; Luke 18:28-30)

What you’re going through is training with purpose, not suffering without meaning, and the reward far outweighs the labour. So let’s stay unmovable in our duties, serving with joy and delight as unto the Lord. God didn’t give us children to stress us or burden us. He gave them to bless us.

Pray for grace to be a steadfast steward of the children God has placed in your hands. (Hebrews 4:16)

Where it all begins

Salvation is the first step to becoming a steadfast steward. If you’ve never given your life to Christ, or you want to renew your commitment, pray this with me:

Dear Heavenly Father, I come to You today. I know I am a sinner, and I acknowledge my sins. I believe You died for me and rose again on the third day to cleanse me from sin and from the power of Satan. Please come into my heart and life. I want You to be my Lord and Savior, and I want to serve You as my Lord and Savior. Amen.

Let’s talk

What has been the hardest part of staying steadfast in your parenting? Share it in the comments, and let’s encourage one another.

Remain ever blessed.

JESUS IS LORD.

The Sandwich That Refused To Share

Sammy the talking sandwich learns that sharing can bring joy to others in this fun Christian children’s story about generosity, kindness and giving.

The Story

In a little kitchen on Maple Street lived a very unusual sandwich.

His name was Sammy.

And Sammy thought he was absolutely wonderful.

“Look at me!” he said proudly. “I am the best sandwich in the whole kitchen!”

One afternoon, a little girl named Timi came home from school feeling very hungry.

Her mother had prepared Sammy for her lunch.

Timi picked up the plate.

“Mmm! This looks delicious.”

Just then, Timi’s little brother came into the kitchen.

“Timi, may I have a little piece?” he asked.

Sammy the sandwich gasped.

“A piece? Absolutely not!”

Sammy the sandwich proudly sitting on a plate while a little boy politely asks for a piece

Timi looked around.

“Did you hear something?”

“No,” said her brother.

Sammy whispered, “I heard everything!”

Her brother asked again, “Please, Timi?”

Sammy shouted, “NO SHARING!”

Timi laughed.

“That sandwich must be talking!”

Sammy folded his lettuce proudly.

“Of course I’m talking. And I have decided that I belong to Timi alone!”

Timi smiled and said, “It’s my lunch, Sammy. But I can choose to share some with my brother.”

Sammy shook his tomato slices.

“But I don’t want to be shared!”

So Timi took a bite.

“Crunch!”

Sammy frowned.

“Well, at least I still have plenty left.”

Timi took another bite.

“Crunch!”

Sammy looked worried.

Then Timi broke off a small piece and gave it to her brother.

A little girl happily giving her younger brother a small piece of sandwich

“Here you go.”

Her brother smiled.

“Thank you!”

Sammy was surprised.

“Wait! You shared me!”

“Yes,” said Timi. “And look how happy it made him.”

Sammy looked at the little boy’s happy face.

For the first time, he began to wonder if having everything to himself was really the best thing.

Then something funny happened.

Her brother brought over his own apple.

“Timi, you shared your sandwich with me. Would you like some of my apple?”

Timi smiled.

Sammy smiled too.

“Hmm,” he said. “Maybe sharing doesn’t make you lose everything. Maybe it gives everyone a chance to enjoy something together.”

By the time lunch was over, Sammy was gone.

But his lesson remained.

Illustration 1: Sammy the sandwich proudly sitting on a plate while a little boy politely asks for a piece, the sandwich looking comically shocked, bright cozy kitchen, expressive children’s picture-book style, no text.

And whenever Timi had something she could share, she remembered Sammy and asked herself, “Who can I bless with what I have?”

And always remember Jesus Love You.

What We Can Learn

Sharing can bring joy to others.
Generosity helps us think beyond ourselves.
We can be thankful for what we have and still make room for others.
Small acts of sharing can make a big difference.

A Teaching Point for Parents

Sharing is a character quality that develops with practice. Children do not need to be forced to surrender every personal possession, but they can be taught to recognize appropriate opportunities to give, share, help, and include others.

When a child shares willingly, notice the heart behind the action. You might say, “That was generous. You noticed that someone else could enjoy this too.” This helps children connect sharing with love rather than merely with a rule.

Scripture to Remember

“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Hebrews 13:16

God cares about the way we treat others. Sharing what we can is one practical way of doing good and showing love.

Bedtime Prayer

Dear Jesus,
Thank You for all the good things You have given me. Please teach me to have a generous heart and to notice opportunities to share with others. Help me to give with love and a happy heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Sammy was not an ordinary sandwich. He had two soft slices of bread, crunchy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and a delicious filling in the middle.

Talk About It

Why didn’t Sammy want to be shared?
How did Timi’s brother feel when she shared with him?
What did Timi’s brother do after receiving her kindness?
What is one thing you could share with someone this week?

One Little Thing to Remember

Sharing is one way we show love.

The Responsibility of Godly Parenting: Are Ye Able?

Godly parenting requires more than good intentions. Are we willing to sacrifice our comfort, obey God’s Word, and become the parents He wants us to be? Discover the responsibility, cost, and grace of raising children in God’s ways.

Scripture Text: Matthew 20:20–22 (KJV)

There was a time when the mother of James and John came to Jesus with a request concerning her sons. She desired places of honor for them in His kingdom. But Jesus turned the conversation toward a question of readiness and sacrifice: “Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of?” (Matthew 20:22, KJV).

She desired a glorious future for her children, but Jesus drew attention to the price associated with that future. This raises an important question for every parent who desires to see their children fulfil God’s purpose: Are ye able?

Are we willing to pay the price required to raise our children according to God’s Word? Are we prepared to make the sacrifices necessary to nurture their faith, shape their character, and guide them in the way of the Lord?

Godly Parenting Is a Divine Assignment

Parenting is more than giving birth, providing food, paying school fees, or securing a comfortable future for our children. It is a divine responsibility entrusted to us by God.

Consider what God said about Abraham:

“For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment…”
Genesis 18:19 (KJV)

God had confidence that Abraham would take responsibility for directing his household in His ways. Abraham was not merely expected to desire that his children follow God; he was expected to lead them.

Likewise, godly parenting requires more than wishing our children would grow up to love God. It requires intentional teaching, godly example, prayer, correction, and consistent guidance.

In Judges 13:8, Manoah prayed to God for instruction on how to raise the son who would be born to him. His prayer reminds us that parents do not have to depend on their own understanding. We can ask God to teach us how to fulfil the responsibility He has entrusted to us.

The Greatest Challenge May Not Be the Child, but the Parent

In reaching out to children and teaching them the Word of God, one of the challenges that can emerge is the influence of the home environment. A child may hear the truth in a lesson, learn a Bible verse, and understand the importance of godly character, only to return home to an environment that contradicts what was taught.

When children hear us teach patience but regularly see us act in anger, or learn about prayer while never seeing us make room for God, our example may weaken the message our words are meant to communicate.

This is why parents must examine themselves. We cannot consistently give what we have refused to receive, learn, or practise. If we want our children to love the Word of God, we must be willing to grow in it ourselves.

This does not mean parents must be perfect before they can teach their children. It means we must be honest enough to keep learning, humble enough to correct our own mistakes, and willing to practise the truth we teach.

We may desire children who become leaders, pathfinders, solution-builders, and shining lights in their generation. But what are we doing today to prepare them for that future? Their upbringing cannot be left to chance while we assume that good intentions alone will produce godly results.

The Price of Godly Parenting Is Dying to Self

Jesus said:

“If any man serve me, let him follow me…”
John 12:26 (KJV)

And in John 12:24, Jesus uses the picture of a grain of wheat that must fall into the ground and die before it brings forth much fruit. This principle helps us understand an important part of parenting: fruitful parenting often requires us to surrender some of our personal comfort and convenience.

Dying to self does not mean neglecting our well-being or losing our identity. It means refusing to let selfishness rule our decisions when God has entrusted us with the care and spiritual development of our children.

Sometimes, the price may mean waking up earlier to pray with our children instead of sleeping a little longer. It may mean putting down our phones to listen to their questions, studying Scripture so we can teach them, or patiently correcting them when we would rather avoid the inconvenience.

It may also mean changing habits, apologizing when we are wrong, and choosing a godly response when our emotions urge us in another direction.

Jesus said, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15, KJV). Love for God must find expression in obedience. If we love God and desire to raise our children in His ways, we must be willing to follow His instructions, even when obedience costs us something.

Children are a heritage from the Lord (Psalm 127:3). They are not interruptions to the life we want to live; they are a sacred responsibility within the life God has entrusted to us. We must therefore be careful not to protect our leisure at the expense of the attention, guidance, and spiritual care they need.

God Has Given the Assignment, and He Will Help Us Fulfil It

The question “Are ye able?” is not meant to leave parents discouraged or afraid. It is an invitation to examine our willingness and turn to God for the grace to fulfil our responsibility.

God does not expect us to rely entirely on our own strength. He invites us to seek His wisdom, follow His Word, and depend on His help. As Manoah prayed for guidance concerning his son, we too can ask God to show us what our children need at each stage of their lives.

Proverbs 22:6 instructs us to train up a child in the way he should go. Training requires intention and consistency. It means teaching, modelling, correcting, encouraging, and creating opportunities for our children to know and follow God.

If you did not grow up with a strong foundation in the Word of God, do not conclude that it is too late to begin. You can start learning now. You can grow alongside your children, establish new family habits, and allow God’s Word to reshape your home. God is able to equip those who sincerely answer His call.

We may not always know what to do next, but we can seek God daily and obey the light He gives us. We do not need to have every answer before we begin; we need a willing heart that is ready to learn and act.

Conclusion: Are Ye Able?

Every parent may desire to see their children excel, fulfil their purpose, and become a blessing to their generation. But godly parenting calls us beyond desire into responsibility.

Are we willing to make time for prayer, the Word, meaningful conversations, loving correction, and godly example? Are we willing to examine our own lives and allow God to change us as we guide our children?

We do not have to be flawless parents, but we must be willing parents: willing to learn, willing to obey, willing to sacrifice, and willing to depend on God.

So, as we dream of what our children may become, let us also consider what God is asking us to become for their sake.

Are ye able?

A Prayer of Salvation

If you have not yet surrendered your life to Jesus Christ, you can begin today by turning to Him in faith. The greatest gift we can share with our children is a life that belongs to the Lord.

Pray sincerely:

Heavenly Father, I come to You in the name of Jesus Christ. I confess that I am a sinner and need Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus died for my sins and rose again. I repent of my sins and receive Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. Please forgive me, give me a new heart, and help me to live according to Your Word. Thank You for saving me. In Jesus Christ’s name, Amen.

A Prayer for Parents

Heavenly Father, thank You for the precious gift of our children. Grant us the grace and strength to fulfil our responsibility of raising them in Your ways. Help us to become the parents You want us to be and to lead our children by both our words and our examples.

In the name of Jesus the Christ, Amen.

Keep building godly homes, one Scripture at a time.
Jesus Is Lord.

The Bulldog Who Picked on Butterflies

Bruno the bulldog learns that teasing and frightening others is not real strength. A Christian children’s story about kindness, empathy and self-control.

The Story

Bruno was the biggest bulldog in the park.

He had big paws.

A big mouth.

A very loud bark.

And, unfortunately, a big habit of picking on smaller animals.

Whenever Bruno saw a little butterfly flying through the flowers, he would bark.

“HEY! YOU!”

The butterfly would flutter away.

Bruno would laugh.

“Ha! Look how fast you can fly!”

One day, Bruno spotted a tiny yellow butterfly named Bella.

Bella was quietly resting on a flower.

Bruno crept closer.

“BOO!”

Bella flew away.

Bruno laughed.

“Got you!”

The next day, Bruno did it again.

And the day after that.

Soon, the butterflies stopped coming near Bruno.

But Bruno didn’t stop.

He began teasing the little birds too.

“Look at your tiny wings!” he barked.

Then he chased the rabbits.

“Run, little rabbit! Run!”

Bruno thought it was funny.

The other animals did not.

One afternoon, Bruno went to the park expecting to find everyone there.

But something was different.

The butterflies were gone.

The birds had moved to another part of the park.

Even the rabbits stayed far away.

Bruno sat under a tree.

For the first time, the park felt very quiet.

Then Bruno heard a tiny voice.

“Bruno?”

He looked up.

It was Bella the butterfly.

She was sitting on a leaf far above him.

“Why don’t you come down?” Bruno asked.

Bella hesitated.

“Because you keep frightening us.”

Bruno looked at the ground.

He had thought he was only having fun.

But now he understood something.

It wasn’t fun when the other animals were afraid.

“I’m sorry,” Bruno said.

Bella stayed on the leaf.

“Are you really sorry?”

Bruno nodded.

“Yes. I don’t want anyone to be afraid of me.”

From that day on, Bruno began practicing something new.

Kindness.

When he saw a butterfly, he didn’t chase it.

He watched it fly.

When he saw a rabbit, he didn’t scare it.

He gave it space.

When he saw a little bird, he didn’t laugh at its tiny wings.

He said, “Those are beautiful wings.”

Slowly, the animals began coming back.

One morning, Bella landed on Bruno’s nose.

Bruno’s eyes crossed as he tried to look at her.

Bella giggled.

“You look funny!”

Bruno smiled.

“That’s okay. This time, we’re both laughing.”

And Bruno discovered something much better than making others afraid.

He discovered that his strength could be used to protect, help, and make others feel safe.

And always remember Jesus Loves You.

What We Can Learn

Bruno learned that something can feel funny to us without being funny to someone else.

Teasing, frightening, or repeatedly picking on someone can hurt their feelings and make them feel unsafe.

God wants us to use our strength, words, abilities, and influence to help others rather than hurt them.

True strength is not about making others afraid of us. It is also about having enough self-control to treat others with kindness.

A Teaching Point for Parents

Children sometimes call hurtful behavior “just a joke.” This can be a valuable opportunity to help them understand the difference between playful fun and behavior that repeatedly hurts, embarrasses, frightens, or excludes another person.

Ask questions such as, “How do you think the other child felt?” or “Was everyone laughing, or was only one person laughing?”

Also teach children what to do when they see someone being bullied: don’t join in, don’t encourage the behavior, move away from the situation when appropriate, and tell a trusted adult when help is needed.

Most importantly, teach children that kindness does not mean weakness. A strong character knows how to use strength responsibly.

Scripture to Remember

Ephesians 4:32

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

God calls us to treat others with kindness and compassion. Our strength and abilities should become opportunities to help others, not reasons to hurt them.

Bedtime Prayer

Dear God,

Thank You for making every person special and valuable.

Please help me to be kind with my words and actions.

Help me never to enjoy hurting, frightening, or embarrassing someone else.

Give me courage to stand for what is right and wisdom to ask a trusted adult for help when someone is being bullied.

Help me use what You have given me to help others.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

Talk About It

Why did the animals stay away from Bruno?
Did Bruno think he was hurting them at first?
How did Bella help Bruno understand how the animals felt?
What did Bruno change about his behavior?
What is the difference between having fun together and making fun of someone?
How can you show kindness to someone who feels left out or afraid?

One Little Thing to Remember

Real strength does not hurt the weak. It uses strength to help, protect, and show kindness.

The Impatient Caterpillar

Coco the impatient caterpillar learns that some things take time in this fun Christian children’s story about patience, self-control and trusting the process.

The Story

In a beautiful garden lived a little caterpillar named Coco.

Coco was always in a hurry.

When the flowers opened, Coco wanted them to open faster.

When the fruit began to grow, Coco wanted it to ripen immediately.

And when Coco heard that caterpillars could one day become butterflies, she wanted to become one right away.

“I don’t want to wait!” Coco complained. “I want to fly today!”

Her friend, an old ladybug named Lila, smiled.

“Some things take time, Coco. You cannot rush everything.”

“I can try!” Coco replied.

And try she did.

One morning, Coco climbed to the tallest leaf she could find.

“Maybe butterflies become butterflies by jumping!” she said.

She jumped.

Plop!

She landed in a soft patch of grass.

Coco the caterpillar humorously jumping from a tall leaf

“That didn’t work.”

“Maybe I’m almost ready!”

She stretched.

She wiggled.

She spun around.

Nothing happened.

“This is taking too long!” Coco cried.

One afternoon, Coco noticed something strange.

She did not feel like eating as much as before.

She felt tired.

And she felt that something inside her was changing.

Lila smiled.

“Perhaps it is time to rest.”

Coco found a quiet place and began making her chrysalis.

Coco resting peacefully inside a chrysalis

“How long will this take?” she asked.

“As long as it takes,” said Lila.

Coco sighed.

“I don’t like waiting.”

“You don’t have to like waiting,” Lila replied. “You just need to learn to be patient.”

So Coco waited.

For the first time, she did not try to hurry.

She rested.

She waited.

And slowly, something wonderful happened.

Coco emerged with beautiful wings.

She stretched them carefully.

“I can fly!”

Lila laughed.

“Yes, Coco. And you didn’t have to rush it.”

Coco looked at her beautiful wings.

She remembered all the times she had complained about waiting.

“I think I understand now,” she said. “Some good things need time.”

From that day on, whenever Coco wanted something to happen immediately, she would take a deep breath and remember her chrysalis.

“Be patient,” she would tell herself. “Good things can take time.”

And always remember Jesus Loves You.

What We Can Learn

Not everything happens as quickly as we want.
Patience helps us wait without giving up.
Some things need time to grow and develop.
Waiting can teach us self-control and trust.

A Teaching Point for Parents

Children often struggle with waiting because they naturally want what they want now. Patience can be developed through ordinary experiences such as waiting for food, taking turns, completing a difficult task, or allowing a skill to develop.

Rather than simply telling a child, “Be patient,” help them understand what patience looks like. You might say, “We are waiting, but we can still do something good while we wait.”

Scripture to Remember

“Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him.” Psalm 37:7

Waiting patiently does not mean doing nothing forever. It means learning to remain calm and trust God instead of becoming controlled by impatience.

Bedtime Prayer

Dear Jesus,
Please help me to be patient when I have to wait. Help me not to become angry or give up just because things are taking longer than I expected. Teach me to trust You and use my waiting time wisely. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Talk About It

Why was Coco always in a hurry?
What did Coco learn while she was waiting?
Can you think of something that requires patience?
What can you do when you have to wait for something?

One Little Thing to Remember

Some good things take time. Be patient and keep growing.

The Greedy Gorilla

Gogo the greedy gorilla learns that sharing brings greater joy than keeping everything for himself in this fun Christian children’s story.

The Story

Deep in the greenest part of the jungle lived a big, strong gorilla named Gogo.

Gogo had a very important rule.

“If I find it, it is mine!”

If Gogo found a mango, it was his.

If he found a pineapple, it was his.

And if he found a bunch of bananas…

Well, you already know what he would say.

“MINE!”

One sunny morning, the animals were preparing for their big Jungle Fruit Picnic. Everyone brought something delicious.

The monkeys brought bananas. The parrots brought mangoes. The rabbits brought carrots. Even the little tortoise brought some juicy watermelon.

Then Gogo arrived.

He looked at the mountain of fruit.

His eyes grew wide.

“Wonderful!” he shouted. “I will take all the bananas!”

He grabbed one bunch.

Then another.

Gogo the gorilla excitedly collecting huge bunches

“Gogo,” said Mimi the monkey, “those are for everyone.”

“But I love bananas!” Gogo replied.

“We all do,” said Mimi.

Gogo hugged his enormous pile of bananas.

“Then you should have brought more!”

The animals looked at one another.

Gogo carried the bananas behind a large tree and began arranging them.

One pile here.

One pile there.

And one very special pile right beside him.

“Now,” he said proudly, “I have enough bananas for me!”

But there was one little problem.

Gogo had collected so many bananas that he could hardly sit down.

He tried to sit.

SQUISH!

He stood up quickly.

He tried to move the pile.

SLIP!

One banana rolled away.

Then another.

Then twenty.

“Hey!” shouted Gogo.

He chased one banana.

It rolled left.

He chased another.

It rolled right.

Soon Gogo was running around the jungle trying to catch bananas that seemed determined to escape him.

Gogo struggling as bananas roll in everywhere

The other animals watched.

Then something unexpected happened.

Mimi, the rabbit, and the tortoise began helping him gather the bananas.

“Thank you,” Gogo said, surprised.

When they had gathered most of them, Gogo looked at the animals.

They had helped him even though he had refused to share with them.

Gogo became quiet.

He looked at his giant pile.

Then he looked at his friends.

“I think…” he said slowly, “I have too many bananas.”

Mimi smiled.

“You could share them.”

Gogo thought for a moment.

Then he picked up a bunch of bananas.

“Here, Mimi. These are for you.”

He gave another bunch to the rabbit.

Then some to the tortoise.

Before long, everyone had something to eat.

And do you know what Gogo discovered?

Sharing did not leave him with nothing.

It gave everyone something to enjoy together.

Gogo smiled as the animals laughed and ate around him.

Gogo and his animal friends happily sharing banana

From that day on, Gogo still loved bananas.

But whenever he found something good, he no longer shouted, “MINE!”

Instead, he would ask,

“Who can I share this with?”

And the jungle became a happier place.

And always remember Jesus Loves You.

What We Can Learn

Sharing shows love and generosity.
We do not need to keep everything for ourselves.
Having more does not always make us happier.
Giving can bring joy to both the giver and the receiver.
We should learn to think about the needs of others too.

A Teaching Point for Parents

Children need to learn generosity, but sharing should not mean that they must surrender every personal possession whenever someone asks. Teach children the difference between generosity and having healthy boundaries.

For younger children, sharing can begin with simple experiences such as sharing toys, snacks, materials, or opportunities to play. Praise genuine generosity and help children notice the joy their giving can bring to others.

Most importantly, let generosity become something children see and experience, not merely something they are commanded to do.

Scripture to Remember

“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Hebrews 13:16

God is pleased when we do good and willingly share with others. Generosity is one way we show love and care.

Bedtime Prayer

Dear Jesus, thank You for everything You have given me. Please help me to be generous and willing to share with others. Teach me to care about the needs of people around me and to give with a happy heart. Amen.

Talk About It

Why did Gogo want to keep all the bananas?
How did the other animals help Gogo?
How did Gogo feel after he began sharing?
What is one thing you can share with someone this week?

One Little Thing to Remember

Sharing does not make what we have smaller. It can make someone else’s day brighter.

The Princess Who Said “NO” to Everything

Princess Nola learns that obedience, cooperation, and wisdom are more valuable than always saying no in this fun Christian children’s story.

The Story

Princess Nola had a very special word.

It was a tiny word.

Only two letters.

But Princess Nola used it for almost everything.

“Nola, please get ready for breakfast.”

“NO!”

“Nola, please brush your teeth.”

“NO!”

“Nola, would you like to wear your blue dress?”

“NO!”

“What about the yellow one?”

“NO!”

Even when her parents asked a question she actually liked, Nola sometimes said no simply because she could.

One morning, the palace cook brought her favourite pancakes.

“Princess Nola, your pancakes are ready!”

Nola looked at them.

They had strawberries.

“NO!”

They had honey.

They even had a tiny smiley face made from blueberries.

The cook blinked.

“But Princess, these are your favourite.”

“I know.”

“So… why no?”

Nola shrugged.

“Because I like saying no.”

That afternoon, something important happened.

The king and queen were preparing for a special garden celebration.

There would be music, games, food, flowers, and plenty of children.

Queen Mother asked Nola to help arrange some flowers.

“Nola, please put these flowers in the basket.”

“NO!”

“Would you help me carry these cushions?”

“NO!”

“Can you please stay away from the pond while the workers prepare the garden?”

“NO!”

Nola marched away.

She wanted to do things her own way.

But soon she discovered something.

When everyone has to stop and argue about every little instruction, very little gets done.

The flowers were still on the ground.

The cushions were still outside.

And the celebration was getting closer.

Then Nola saw a little boy carrying a basket of flowers.

“Why are you helping?” she asked.

“Because everyone is working together,” he replied.

Nola looked around.

Everyone was busy.

Everyone except her.

Just then, she heard her mother call.

“Nola, please come here.”

Nola opened her mouth.

Her favourite word was ready.

“NO…”

She stopped.

She remembered the busy garden.

She remembered the boy carrying flowers.

She remembered how frustrating it was when nobody cooperated.

Nola took a breath.

“Yes, Mummy.”

Her mother smiled.

“Thank you, Nola.”

Nola helped arrange the flowers.

Then she carried the cushions.

She helped prepare the tables.

And when the celebration finally began, Nola looked at the beautiful garden and smiled.

“I helped make this happen!”

Her mother nodded.

“Yes, you did.”

Nola thought about her little word.

She still knew how to say “no.”

And she learned that sometimes saying no is important.

But she also learned that saying no simply because she did not want to listen could keep her from helping, learning, and enjoying something wonderful.

From that day forward, Princess Nola became known for something new.

Not for saying “NO” to everything…

but for knowing when to say “Yes, I will.”

And always remember Jesus Loves You.

What We Can Learn

Princess Nola learned that obedience and cooperation are important parts of growing in character.

We do not have to agree with everything we are told, and there are times when saying no is the right thing to do. But when a parent gives a good and appropriate instruction, refusing simply because we do not feel like obeying can create unnecessary problems.

Learning to listen, cooperate, and respond appropriately helps us become more responsible and considerate of others.

A Teaching Point for Parents

Sometimes what looks like stubbornness is a child’s desire for independence. Children are learning that they have choices, and part of parenting is teaching them how to use those choices wisely.

Instead of turning every instruction into a battle, give children appropriate choices where possible. For example: “Would you like to brush your teeth before putting on your pajamas or after?”

At the same time, make clear that some instructions are not optional, especially when they involve safety, respect, or responsibility.

The goal is not to raise children who blindly obey every voice. It is to raise children who learn to recognize good instruction, respond appropriately, and develop wisdom and self-control.

Scripture to Remember

Colossians 3:20

“Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.”

Obedience is one way children can honor God as they respond to the guidance of their parents.

Bedtime Prayer

Dear God, Thank You for giving me parents and people who guide me. Please help me to listen carefully and obey good instructions. Give me wisdom to know when to speak up and when I need to listen and cooperate. Help me to grow in self-control, wisdom, and respect.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

Talk About It

What word did Princess Nola love saying?
Why did she keep saying “NO”?
What happened when she refused to help?
What made Nola change her attitude?
Why is cooperation important?
Can you think of a time when listening and obeying helped you?

One Little Thing to Remember

Not every instruction is a battle. Listen, think, and choose what is right.

Build Your Parenting on the Word

A house falls without a foundation, and so does parenting without God’s Word. See how Timothy, Samuel, and Daniel were raised on the rock, and how you can build the same foundation at home this week.

“For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.”
1 Corinthians 3:11

Jesus Himself told us what happens when storms hit a home:

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.”
Matthew 7:24-25

The storms will come to every family. What decides whether the house stands is what it was built on. When we build on Scripture and put it into practice, we raise Timothys, Samuels, and Daniels. Here’s what that looks like:

1. TIMOTHY: Raised on Scripture From Childhood
“From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation.”
2 Timothy 3:15

Young boy Timothy sitting with his grandmother Lois and mother Eunice

His Foundation:
· Lois & Eunice (2 Tim. 1:5) filled his early years with God’s Word
· Outcome: He grew into Paul’s trusted partner in ministry

2. SAMUEL: Taught to Listen for God
“Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening.”
1 Samuel 3:10

Young boy Samuel lying in the temple at night, light shining down

His Foundation:
· Hannah gave him to God (1 Sam. 1:28)
· Eli showed him how to answer God’s call
· Outcome: He led Israel with integrity

3. DANIEL: Steady in a Hostile Culture
“Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine.”
Daniel 1:8

Daniel standing firm at the king’s table in Babylon, pushing away royal food and wine

His Foundation:
· His parents rooted him in God’s commands (Deut. 6:7)
· Outcome: He held his ground in Babylon’s palace

Timothy, Samuel, and Daniel all stood firm because someone built on the rock, not the sand. The storms will come, but the home built on Christ will stand.

This Week’s Challenge:
· Morning: Read a verse about who God is
· Mealtime: Tell a story about a hero of the Bible
· Bedtime: Pray a promise from Scripture over your child

A Prayer for Your Home:
Lord, be the foundation of our family. Help us hear Your Word and put it into practice, so that when the storms come, our house stands on You. Amen.

Of these three examples (Timothy, Samuel, or Daniel), which speaks to you most, and why?

(I’ll start: Timothy’s story pushes me to be more intentional.)

Jesus Is Lord

JAM: The Three Girls Who Learned to Be Friends

Jemima, Abigail and Matilda learn kindness, sharing, patience and friendship after too many arguments in this fun Christian children’s story.

The Story

In a lively neighbourhood called Sunny Street lived three girls named Jemima, Abigail, and Matilda.

They lived close to one another.

They went to the same school.

They even played in the same playground.

But there was one tiny problem.

They did not get along.

Not a little bit.

They argued about almost everything.

Three young schoolgirls arguing humorously

“The answer is twelve!” Jemima would say.

“No, it’s fourteen!” Matilda would reply.

“Both of you are wrong!” Abigail would announce.

Then Jemima and Matilda would turn to her.

“What is your answer?”

Abigail would blink.

“I haven’t done the question yet.”

“ABIGAIL!”

Abigail had a special talent.

She loved knowing everybody else’s business.

If Jemima whispered to Matilda, Abigail wanted to know what they were whispering about.

If Matilda opened her schoolbag, Abigail wanted to know what was inside.

And if someone said, “This is a secret,” Abigail’s ears suddenly became bigger than two satellite dishes.

“What secret?” she would ask.

“Abigail, mind your business!” the girls would shout.

But that was not the only problem.

At school, they sometimes broke each other’s pencils during arguments.

Jemima impatiently talking to Abigail and Matilda who looked frustrated

At playtime, they argued over whose turn it was to use the slide.

“I was here first!”

“No, I was!”

“Move!”

“You move!”

Sometimes the teacher had to look over and say, “Girls!”

And immediately, all three would become as quiet as three sleeping kittens.

But one day, something different happened.

The teacher gave the class some difficult homework.

Matilda looked at the questions.

Then she looked at Jemima.

Jemima was very good at schoolwork. She was clever, but she never used her cleverness to make other children feel small.

Matilda walked over to her.

“Jemima, please, can you help me with this question?”

Abigail quickly joined them.

“Me too, please.”

Jemima smiled.

“Of course.”

Matilda looked at Abigail.

“You know, Jemima is actually the smartest of us.”

Abigail nodded.

“Yes. She’s a total nerd!”

Jemima laughed.

“Thank you… I think?”

They all laughed.

Jemima patiently explained the homework without showing off or making them feel silly.

Jemima patiently helping Abigail and Matilda with their homework at a school desk

For the first time in a long while, the three girls sat together without arguing.

They discovered something surprising.

They actually enjoyed being together.

A week later, the girls had a playdate.

They played games, shared snacks, told funny stories, and laughed until their cheeks hurt.

Abigail even tried to tell a joke and forgot the ending.

“Wait,” she said. “I know there was supposed to be something funny here.”

“Maybe the joke went on holiday,” Matilda said.

Everyone burst out laughing.

The next day at school, something had changed.

Jemima lent Matilda a pencil.

Matilda shared her ruler with Abigail.

Abigail gave Jemima some of her coloured pencils.

At playtime, they took turns on the slide.

Jemima, Abigail and Matilda happily taking turns on a playground slide.

“Your turn.”

“Then my turn.”

“Then Abigail’s turn.”

“Finally!” Abigail shouted. “A slide schedule!”

They laughed and played together.

There were no more broken pencils from angry arguments.

No more fighting over every little thing.

And Abigail learned that sometimes it was better to let other people’s matters remain their matters.

Of course, she still liked asking questions.

But now she was learning when to ask and when to simply mind her own business.

Jemima, Abigail, and Matilda soon became known as JAM.

J for Jemima.

A for Abigail.

M for Matilda.

Three girls.

Three different personalities.

One wonderful friendship.

And always remember Jesus Love You.

What We Can Learn

Kindness helps friendships grow.
We do not have to agree about everything to be friends.
Taking turns and sharing help everyone enjoy playing together.
Being clever is wonderful, but helping others without showing off is even better.
We should learn when something is our business and when it is better to give others space.

A Teaching Point for Parents

Friendships among children can sometimes involve arguments, teasing, competition, or difficulty taking turns. These moments can become opportunities to teach children practical kindness.

Help children learn simple habits such as listening, apologising when they hurt someone, taking turns, sharing appropriately, and respecting other people’s personal space and conversations.

Also remind children that being good at something is not a reason to look down on others. True knowledge should make us willing to help, not eager to show off.

Scripture to Remember

“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:32, KJV

Kindness, forgiveness, and a caring heart can help us build healthier friendships and relationships with others.

Bedtime Prayer

Dear Jesus,
Thank You for my friends and the people around me. Help me to be kind, patient, helpful, and willing to forgive. Teach me to share, take turns, listen to others, and know when to give people space. Help me to use what I know to help others and never to make them feel small. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Talk About It

Why did Jemima, Abigail, and Matilda argue so much?
How did Jemima help the other girls?
What changed after their playdate?
Why is taking turns important?
What does it mean to mind your own business?
How can you show kindness to a friend this week?

One Little Thing to Remember

Kindness turns ordinary friendships into beautiful ones.

We’re raising covenant children

It’s daily, not occasional

Discipline and instruction go together

Our homes are a witness

A Prayer of Grace

Prayer of Salvation

First, what do these words mean?

Proverbs 22:6 is a commandment, not a suggestion

The mark of a steadfast steward: endurance

Your labour is not in vain

Where it all begins

Let’s talk

The Story

What We Can Learn

A Teaching Point for Parents

Scripture to Remember

Bedtime Prayer

Talk About It

One Little Thing to Remember

More Stories for Children

Scripture Text: Matthew 20:20–22 (KJV)

Godly Parenting Is a Divine Assignment

The Greatest Challenge May Not Be the Child, but the Parent

The Price of Godly Parenting Is Dying to Self

God Has Given the Assignment, and He Will Help Us Fulfil It

Conclusion: Are Ye Able?

A Prayer of Salvation

A Prayer for Parents

The Story

What We Can Learn

A Teaching Point for Parents

Scripture to Remember

Bedtime Prayer

Talk About It

One Little Thing to Remember

More Stories for Children

The Story

What We Can Learn

A Teaching Point for Parents

Scripture to Remember

Bedtime Prayer

Talk About It

One Little Thing to Remember

More Stories for Children

The Story

What We Can Learn

A Teaching Point for Parents

Scripture to Remember

Bedtime Prayer

Talk About It

One Little Thing to Remember

More Stories for Children

The Story

What We Can Learn

A Teaching Point for Parents

Scripture to Remember

Bedtime Prayer

Talk About It

One Little Thing to Remember

More Stories for Children

The Story

What We Can Learn

A Teaching Point for Parents

Scripture to Remember

Bedtime Prayer

Talk About It

One Little Thing to Remember

More Stories for Children