May 2012
What’s
Next?
in this issue 3 Four Commandments for Graduates Charles R. Swindoll
pressure points
6 The Heart of True Education Steve Johnson
“There is indeed a great urgency. Each day we have with our children
matters.”
lifetrac
9 Worshipping at Bedside Baptist Brent Thompson STRONG FAMILY
12 The Most Important Things: Reflections of an Empty Nester Joy McKee
laughing matters
14 To Steve, On Your Graduation Phil Callaway Help Me Understand
17 Successful Parenting Insight for Living Canada
Copyright © 2012 Insight for Living Canada. All rights reserved. No portion of this monthly publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the publisher. Insights is published by IFLC, the Bible teaching ministry of Charles R. Swindoll. IFLC is an autonomous ministry and certified member of the Canadian Council of Christian Charities. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture passages are taken from the NASB. Printed in Canada. Unless otherwise noted, photography by IFLC staff.
by Charles R. Swindoll
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ou—or someone you know— may soon be graduating. The time has finally come for the ol’ cap-and-gown routine. I extend my congratulations! You may not have set new academic records or had perfect attendance . . . but you finished. You got it done. You saw it through. I commend you. Your course was lengthy, at times tedious, and occasionally dull . . . but you made it. And soon you will be so far removed from the disciplines of academia, it will all seem a blur. I want to pass along some thoughts by way of four simple reminders. Let’s call them “commandments,” which apply to anyone graduating—as well as to those of us who graduated years ago. My thoughts grow out of the final four verses of 2 Timothy 3. 1. Don’t stop learning. Paul urged his long-time friend Timothy: “Continue in the things you have learned” (3:14). It is one thing to take a course, to complete your work, to receive a diploma or earn a degree; it’s another thing to remain a student for the rest of your life, to stay hungry for knowledge, to be curious, to read widely, to be adventurous, to be creative, to be on a never-ending pursuit of truth.
“There is something ing in healthy about keep tors, touch with your men calling to mind the things they modelled” 4
It is not difficult to discern if someone is still learning. There is something exciting about being around them. They are resourceful, interesting, broad-minded, and usually well-travelled. Learners stay openminded, challenged by life’s mysteries; they’re unwilling to stay glued to a television or to be swayed by majority opinion. They love to think. They are fiercely independent. They read the inscriptions on monuments. They are fascinated by the small print, stimulated by out-of-the-way places. They even like studying maps! No source of information eludes them. And so, graduate, may this truly be your commencement into a quest for knowledge that never ends and is never satisfied. 2. Don’t forget your leaders. As Paul reminded Timothy to continue in what he had learned, he added, “knowing from whom you have learned them” (3:14). There were people who had shaped Timothy’s life, whom he needed to remember, to stay near, to thank. Graduate, never forget those who played a part in your years of formal learning. Take time, both now and later, to thank them. Take note of what they taught you, both verbally and personally. There is something healthy about keeping in touch with your mentors, calling to mind the things they modelled, remembering the benefits of having been the recipient of their wisdom, their reproofs, their guidance. If you have been blessed to be in the presence of a great teacher, that inspiration will stay with you forever. And so, graduate, as you walk away from those hallowed halls of learning, may the memory of your mentors remain vivid. 3. Don’t discount your legacy. Timothy didn’t just coincidentally pop into Paul’s presence. And his heart didn’t just happen to be open and sensitive to spiritual
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things. He was the product of a legacy, a spiritual continuum. Timothy’s “sincere faith” had been cultivated by his mother and grandmother who taught him “the sacred writings” (1:5; 3:15). A love for God and His Word and a strong faith in Christ are like priceless batons passed from parent to child in the legacy relay. Paul’s implied admonition was for Timothy to never lose sight of the legacy he’d received . . . and must pass on. And so, graduate, do not discount the legacy of your own life. You are the product of your past, just as Timothy was of his. Though imperfect and lacking in various ways, your parents (perhaps grandparents as well) have marked you, encouraged you, and provided roots for you that have helped you become the person you are today. Do not fail to do the same for your children . . . and grandchildren! 4. Don’t ignore your Lord. As Paul ended these very personal words to his younger friend, he assured Timothy that “all Scripture is inspired by God and profitable . . . that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work” (3:16–17). In effect, Paul was saying that God’s Word would remain a reliable and profitable source of nutritious food that would keep Timothy equipped even when his own hair turned white and legs became feeble.
Paul’s words were really a veiled exhortation to stay close to the Lord, regardless. And so, graduate, keep your inner fireplace warm for God. Watch those future decisions that come with strings attached. Steer clear of the thorns that still choke the Word and make it unfruitful. Remember them? They haven’t changed for centuries—Jesus called them, “the worries of the world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things” (Mark 4:19). Stay near the flame of His Spirit, so close you can feel the warmth of His presence, and continue to fear His holy name. Off you go! It’s cap-and-gown time. Let the graduation ceremonies begin. You’ve worked hard for this occasion. There aren’t many rewards like it in life, so enjoy every minute. But when it’s over and you’re out on your own and that sheepskin gets yellow and starts to wrinkle, try not to let the sands of time erase my gentle reminders: Don’t stop learning. Don’t forget your leaders. Don’t discount your legacy. Don’t ignore your Lord. Photograph of Chuck Swindoll © 2010 by David Edmonson
This Month’s FEATURED RESOURCE
The Prayers of
Charles R. Swindoll VOLUME 2: Devotional Prayers on 31 Themes
Our Lord is sovereign over our joys and our sorrows. The Prayers of Charles R. Swindoll, Volume 2 models prayer in all situations. Learn to rejoice in the Lord’s goodness, approach His throne of grace, let go of worry and control, and pray in all circumstances. 5
Pressure Points
by Steve Johnson
6
The Heart of
True Education
grad
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I
have graduated several times in my life, not counting elementary or Sunday school of course. There was high school, Bible school, Bible college, and, finally, seminary. Although they all were very different, there was at least one similar question, “What are you going to do when you graduate?” That question is still asked of grads today. It seems like a fair question. People are curious. They like to know. But I’ve noticed the emphasis is always on doing, as if all education is meant to do is to simply help you do a job like teach, manage, or write. Consider graduation from the side of the graduate. The graduate often tells herself something like, “Once I graduate, and get a job, then I will be able to get stuff —money, my own business, car, house, vacations, toys!” I don’t believe there is anything wrong with things, but the emphasis is often on what one can acquire as a result of education. God has a different idea about education. According to Scripture real education is not just about doing, or having better options to acquire things. God is more concerned about our hearts and our being, more than He is about our doing—who we are as opposed to what we do. That sounds pretty radical. Especially in a society and culture that is driven by the need to achieve and accumulate. We live in a world primarily concerned with the
externals of doing and having. To say God is more concerned with our heart than He is about our actions runs contrary to prevailing culture and, sadly, the thinking of many Christians. Even Christians can fall into this trap, albeit we dress it up in religious garb. We all too easily believe God is more concerned with our religious performance than He is with our hearts. We can be thoroughly knowledgeable about the Bible, say all the right words, be at all the right Christian events and do all the right things. But in all that we can still be worldly because our hearts are not honouring to God.
“According to Scripture real education is not just about doing, or having better options to acquire things.” Certainly God wants us to live righteous lives and do righteous acts, but having a righteous heart is primary. Even in the Old Testament where external acts were legislated in the law, God was more concerned with the hearts of His people. Jesus reinforced that idea in Matthew 15:1-20 when He said, “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me” (v.8). According to the curriculum for God’s school, Proverbs, the first and most basic principle of all education and knowing 7
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how things work is having a heart that fears the Lord (Prov. 1:7). Without that foundation, all knowledge will be incomplete. One can understand all the intricacies and mysteries of the universe, but without knowing the God who created it, that knowledge is incomplete. One can study human nature but without understanding man is created in the image of God that knowledge is only partial. When one fears the Lord, one can then go on to become wise and properly use the knowledge acquired through education. Solomon was wise. Despite his extensive knowledge he understood the core of true education begins with a heart that is right before God and sees and responds to life from God’s point of view. He knew that it is from the heart, not the head that all the issues of life flow (Prov. 4:23). He wrote, “Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding” (Prov. 4:7). Our sense of identity, self-awareness, and self-confidence are forged through education. Education develops our strengths, weaknesses, limitations, personality, and
on the air in
character. Our awareness of others and the world around us, the kind of person we are and how we think are all things education helps improve in us. And all those benefits of education are good. But all these things must find their root in a heart that fears the God who made and owns the world and everything in it (Ps. 24:1). The world is full of highly educated brilliant people whose training has enabled them to have much and do much. Are these the people who have high marks with God? No. He says, “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word” (Isa. 66:2). To graduate from God’s school, to be the kind of person He uses and who pleases Him, we have to have hearts of wisdom. That’s the heart of true education. Steve Johnson is the executive director at IFLC.
JUNE:
God’s Masterwork
Volume 6: Letters to God’s People — A Survey of Romans–Philemon Jesus’ mission was to bring sinners near to God the Father through the payment of His blood. For this divine work, the New Testament has many words: Rebirth. Redemption. Salvation. Righteousness. These words blend together in one beautiful theme—Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour. This series presents an overview of Romans to Philemon.
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Upcoming Messages Include: Romans: Cornerstone of Christian Truth Galatians: Letter of Liberation Ephesians: True Portrait of the Church Philippians: Joy in Abundance Colossians: Christ, Our All in All
by Brent Thompson
On lifetrac.ca/blog this month: How to Choose a Church By Robyn Roste
For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory. And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe. 1 Thess. 2:11-13 NIV
W
ell, it’s finally done. I can’t believe the year blew by so fast! Lots of things have changed—I wonder if my friends from high school would even recognize me now… The summer after 12th grade was a blur. Once I got the acceptance letter to university, I knew everything would be different and all I could think about was saving money so I could live in the dorms. Work, work, work. I didn’t see my friends much, but my parents insisted I take weekends off so I could go to church with them on Sundays and spend some time doing something other than my job. I guess that was a good idea, even though I know it cost me overtime hours. They made up for it by covering the rest of my dorm fees, which was only fair, since it was their idea for me to not work weekends in the first place. September arrived like a storm. The dorms were open and students were coming in from everywhere, it was a little overwhelming at first. My parents helped me lug my stuff to my room and took me out for dinner before they left. I remember Mom crying a lot and Dad reminding, “Don’t forget where you come from son and don’t forget to call.” He told me that they would always love me and trust me to be faithful to God now that I’m away from home. That was big news and yet, I can’t honestly say I knew what he meant. I felt some sadness as they drove away but I was also so excited! Wow, now that I look back, how many times did I call? Maybe six times all year? Wow.
The first call home wasn’t much fun. Maybe that’s why I didn’t call too much? It was awesome to hear Mom’s voice and about my brother’s football team, but once Dad got on the phone, it was all business. Mom had asked me about church and I managed to get off the topic pretty quick. Dad wasn’t so easy. I could hear the lingering tone of disappointment but I don’t think he was angry. More like sad. It’s not like I was doing drugs or failing school! Every time I called, he brought it up. It was annoying more than anything but he was just being Dad. I explained to him that I tried out a couple churches around the university and it was just too weird. One didn’t have a band and sang all their songs by organ from a hymnal! The people there were really kind and had tons of food for visitors from the school but I didn’t like the service at all. The other one played the same music as the one at home but no one said “Hi!” or talked to me. Well, the usher was nice, but that’s it. After finally making the effort to get up early and take the bus to try out these two churches, I wasn’t going to try anymore. Sunday mornings in dorm were quiet, the silence broken only by the groans of those with hangovers and the occasional shout from gamers racking up a new achievement. I liked sleeping in and my roommate was rarely around after his partying on Saturday night. It was different but I didn’t mind it. Now that I’m going home for the summer, I know Dad will expect me to go to church
Worshipping at Bedside Baptist continued from p. 9
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Free mp3
with them every Sunday. I am looking forward to seeing my family again but it will be strange to live at home after all the freedom I’ve had this year. I do miss some things: my mom’s cooking, beating my brother at 21, Sunday afternoons at the lake…singing. Who would’ve thought I’d miss singing!? There were days in chemistry class I was so bored and I’d start humming only to realize the people around me were staring. Oops! I will miss the sleeping in though. Our church at home is different… familiar…comfortable. I know people there and I know what to do. It’s not weird like those other ones. Besides, I went to a couple of group meetings on campus and they were OK. I didn’t leave my name or anything, but maybe next year I could look into it more. The thing is, without church, I didn’t feel that different. I did some things that I never would have done at home and that made me think about why. I won’t say that everything was always great, that I was happy to do those things, but I don’t regret it either. Maybe I’ll talk to Dad about it and see if I’m still all right in his eyes. After all, he did promise to always love me and trust me…
We know Esther’s story—a beautiful young Jewish woman whose actions inevitably preserved the destiny of her race. Throughout the book with her namesake are woven many character traits, which caused her to stand out in the crowd. In this month’s free mp3, Strength and Dignity on Parade, Chuck Swindoll looks at this rare blend of beauty, strength, and dignity and explains how and why these qualities are still vital for us to exhibit today. Download this inspiring message today at lifetrac.ca
Enthusiasm for Life Are you acting your age? Just because you’re getting older doesn’t mean you can’t stay young. Adding enthusiasm will make a world of difference. None are so old as the one who has outlived enthusiasm. Listen online anytime at lifetrac.ca
“I remember Mom crying a lot and Dad reminding, ‘Don’t forget where you come from son and don’t When we experience times of transition it’s easy to let regular forget to churchgoing slip. The Bible shows us church is not simply a structure call.’” we visit or a ritual we observe but a body of believers who we support and “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another— and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Heb. 10:24-25 NIV
worship with.
Brent Thompson is a high school business education teacher, football coach, and musician. He lives in British Columbia.
Strong Family
The Most Important OF AN Things REFLECTIONS EMPTY NESTER by Joy McKee
The other day as I was playing with my grandsons I thought how quickly the last 30 years have gone by. It’s hard to believe so much time has passed since their mother, my oldest daughter Meg, was a toddler. When I was a young mother the days seemed endless. It was as if there was an unending supply of them. And I was sure there would always be so much time to be with my children. Time to teach, time to play, time to nurture, and impart values. I never imagined one day the nest would be empty. 12
Looking back I see what a delusion that was. One of Satan’s greatest lies is that there is no urgency in life. He fools us into thinking there will always be plenty of time in the future to explain to our little ones about God, salvation, and the Bible. When they get bigger, when they can understand more, when the house is clean. That’s a lie. Here’s the truth: There is indeed a great urgency. Each day we have with our children matters.
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nest
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“As you drive to soccer practice, eat supper, do homework, in celebration or sorrow, sickness or health, failure or success, God is in every single moment.”
There is a short, time-sensitive window of opportunity to train them and instil God’s truth in their hearts. If your children are young, imagine them 15 or 20 years from now, as adults in a very complex world. No longer under your roof, they will be drawing upon what you have taught them to navigate through life. As you envision them in that future scene, think about the important things you need to teach your children now to enable them to become well-adjusted, secure, and confident adults. It’s not enough to simply live a decent life and hope your moral standards will rub off on your children. Successful parenting goes much deeper. Successful parenting is intentional. It is intentional in the day-to-day living out of biblical principles. This may sound like a regimented way of raising kids but it’s just the opposite. The Bible says it’s in the spontaneity and joy of daily life that teaching about God happens: “Place these words on your hearts. Get them deep inside you. Tie them on your hands and foreheads as a reminder. Teach them to your children. Talk about them wherever you are, sitting at home or walking in the street; talk about them from the time you get up in the morning until you fall into bed at night.” (Deut. 11:18-19 The Message)
A simple way to start the teaching process is with a Bible verse. Choose one verse, put it on the fridge, and make it the focus for the week. Ephesians 4:29 is a good example, “Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word is a gift.” What a wealth of discussion material in just one verse—the importance of thinking before speaking, using words to glorify God, and the power of words to encourage. No matter what age your children, they’re never too young to learn God’s commands regarding their speech. There are teachable moments every day. As you drive to soccer practice, eat supper, do homework, in celebration or sorrow, sickness or health, failure or success, God is in every single moment. He longs for your kids to know Him and trust Him with their every breath. As you seek God’s wisdom He will show you what your kids need to know. And it’s all there in the Bible, just waiting for you to glean. Believe me, far too quickly the parenting years are over and the nest is empty. Intentionally teaching your children the truth of God’s Word nurtures their souls, helps them to know who they are, and equips them to live confidently and securely. Joy McKee is the communications manager at Insight for Living Canada.
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Laughing Matters
Dear Son, It seems like last Wednesday you graduated from kindergarten with a Life Saver dangling from your cardboard hat. I congratulate you on waiting until the final prayer to crunch that candy. And I congratulate you today on an even greater achievement: graduation from high school. Your mother and I felt like singing the Hallelujah Chorus when you seized that diploma, for there were times we wondered if you’d stop playing hockey, or baseball, or Age of Empires long enough to finish crucial assignments. Like me, you suffer from attention deficit disorder, a wonderful condition full of constant surprises, but something teachers are still learning to appreciate. Despite these distractions, you have passed enough tests, written enough essays, and dissected enough frogs. I’m proud of you. When I was your age, I was madly in love with your mother. I’m glad to see that you are reflecting none of that foolishness yet.
“Those who laugh the hardest don’t laugh because life is easy, but because they have felt God’s hand of mercy on their shoulders.” 14
by Phil Callaway
Some of your peers accepted honours today and it’s important you learn to rejoice with those who rejoice. We Callaway’s were seldom singled out for academic awards, partly because we wanted to give the other students a chance, and partly because, as your grandfather once said, when they were handing out brains, we were at the buffet table loading up on ham. I made the Horror Role twice, but never the Honour Roll. And so, in the absence of other honours, I wish to bestow upon you three distinguished awards, sponsored by companies you may recognize.
1. The Pulitzing My Leg Prize. Solomon once wrote that laughter is better than Prozac, and you have proved him right. You have invented hilarious faces, said things we still can’t believe, and brought abundant humour into our home. You have put gum in my hair, soap in my toothbrush, and Kool-Aid in the shower head. People ask where I get ideas for my books. They need look no further than you and your siblings. Never forget that one laugh is better than three tablespoons of Bran Flakes. Laughter is a holy gift from a loving God. Those who laugh the hardest
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don’t laugh because life is easy, but because they have felt God’s hand of mercy on their shoulders.
2. The Callaway Golf Award. People wonder how I can endure a game that rewards perseverance, courage, and devotion—with ulcers. The reason is simple. I love to be with my kids. We have peeled divots from dozens of golf courses together. And we have learned disconcerting things about our sinful nature. In fact, sometimes we’ve been so mad at ourselves we’ve forgotten to hate our enemies. I love the way you put everything into each swing. And I don’t begrudge the fact you are now hitting it farther than I am. This world won’t be a better place until kids are an improvement on their parents, so go ahead and hit it hard. Your generation is characterized by apathy. May that never be said of you. Keep lunging at life and whacking it dead centre.
3. The GAP Award (God Answers Prayer). Eighteen years ago your birth changed my life. I was humbled with a sense of my shortcomings. Unprepared for the intensity of my desire to see you walk with God, I began praying a simple prayer back then— that you would fall in love with Jesus and never get over it. I have seen Him answer in marvellous ways. Lately my prayer is even more basic—that you would see the awfulness of sin and the greatness of God. In travelling to a few hundred speaking
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engagements with me, hauling my luggage through countless airports, there are few things you haven’t seen Satan doing. But you’ve also seen God at work. Remember the men’s retreat where a convicted murderer covered in tattoos hugged you hard? I suspect you do. “Follow God,” he said, “and you won’t end up like me. I never knew my father. Thank God for yours.” I’ve accepted a few honours in my day, but none comes close to the honour of being your dad. Twenty-five years ago today your mother and I walked the same aisle, graduating from the same school. We have found every promise of God to be true, every day He has been faithful. He will do the same for you. I suspect you saw my tears today as you and two friends sang the closing song at the graduation ceremony. I couldn’t help myself. I cried because I love you. I cried because the words sum it up so well: “Your grace still amazes me, your love is still a mystery. Every day I get on my knees, your grace still amazes me.” Keep singing it. Keep living it. All the way Home. With love, admiration and applause,
Dad PS. We hope you enjoy the cash, the books and the Life Savers. One of these days I’ll return the gum, the soap, and the Kool-Aid. When you least expect it. Phil is an author and speaker who has been known to use humour. Visit him online at laughagain.org
Just Released! Being Kind & Caring is the eighth DVD in the Paws & Tales animated series!
Successful Parenting
Successful Parenting
“Can we get it right?”
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Is it just me or is everyone a parenting expert these days? All I want to do is raise healthy, normal, well-adjusted children but it seems no matter what I try someone sees fault in it. What is normal anyway? The picturesque dream of a family with two parents and 2.5 children is long gone. So where do I look for parenting advice? I’m drowning in insecurity and political correctness. Some people tell me it’s my fault for being too strict. Others say it’s my kids for being too defiant. I know the Bible has lots to say on parenting but isn’t it a bit old school? However, it seems every book or show or website about parenting has contradicting advice these days—each “revolutionary” parenting method flies in the face of the last one. How can I know what is right?
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Our Problem—Difficulties we face as parents stem either from problems within ourselves as selfish sinful individuals living among other sinners in a fallen world, or from our children who are selfish sinful individuals living among other sinners in a fallen world. Apart from the grace of God and following the truth of His Word, we cannot hope to parent successfully. God’s Answers—God provides redemption from our sin and a fallen world through the death of Jesus Christ. Embracing Christ as Saviour and Lord is the foundation for successful parenting. A successful parent is one who has received the unconditional love of God, conveys it fully to his or her children, and helps create in them the ability to live according to godly values. Scripture provides direction and is a framework for parents on which to fulfil their Godgiven roles. 1. Children are a gift from God (Ps. 127:3) but belong to Him. Parents are stewards of their children. Each one is unique and is to be raised according to that uniqueness (Prov. 22:6). 2. Children are to be taught to love God, and honour and obey their parents; Parents are to not exasperate but teach and lead them in the way of the Lord (Eph.6:1-4). 3. Parents are to love their children unconditionally and continuously train them (Prov.19:18; 29:17). Discipline includes all forms of correction. 4. God models perfect parenting to us (Heb. 12:5-11).
The Solution
1. Keep growing personally and spiritually. Loving the Lord with all your heart is the best way to be the kind of parent your children need. Expose your children to your walk with the Lord teaching them as you pray, read your Bible, and practice spiritual disciplines. 2. Teach your children continually, guiding them not only when they fail but at all times in between (Deut. 6:4-9). Watch for teachable moments that occur every day. 3. Children need the security of boundaries. Establish and communicate clear and consistent boundaries and expectations, as well as the consequences for breaking them. Model the values you desire your children to embrace. 4. When you make mistakes or sin against your children be humble enough to admit wrongdoing and ask their forgiveness. 5. Model honouring and valuing your spouse. Honour your parents so your children see what it means to do so (Eph. 6:2,3). 6. Never humiliate your child or discipline when you are angry. Know the difference between childish irresponsibility and rebellion. Discipline is always with a view to correction not punishment. 7. Establish your authority as a parent when they are young through loving discipline. Maintain your influence in their lives as they grow into adults through loving, open lines of communication. Love your young adult and adult children even though you don’t always agree with their choices. by
Insight for Living Canada
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Are you searching for a special graduation gift? We suggest the NIV Life Application Study Bible, created for the reader who wants to answer the question, "what does God's Word mean for my life today?" This bonded leather edition is full of fascinating features highlighting the timeless lessons of the Bible including application notes, character studies, maps and charts, and detailed book introductions. The NIV Life Application Study Bible is a rich resource, perfect for helping graduates— or anyone—live out their faith in practical ways. See form for ordering information.
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Dear Graduate: Letters of Wisdom from Charles R. Swindoll Great Graduation Gift Idea! Hardcover by Charles R. Swindoll, 137 pages
Chuck shares warm, personal letters to graduates on the subjects of integrity, victory, courage, and more. This beautifully illustrated book is the perfect gift for every graduate you know.
NIV Life Application Study Bible Great Graduation Gift Idea! Black bonded leather
“What does God’s Word mean for me?” With overviews, outlines, timelines, in-text maps, charts, and diagrams, this study Bible is a powerful resource that translates biblical truths into practical living.
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Paws & Tales DVD 8: Being Kind and Caring NEW! 2 DVD episodes, approximate running time 50 minutes
This animated DVD includes two episodes, “The Hullabaloo at Hunker Hill” and “The Great Go-Kart Race” based on Ephesians 4:32 and Philippians 2:3-4. Children will learn about kindness and working as a team.
on sale in order/donate at insightforliving.ca or call 1.800.663.7639 offer expires June 30, 2012
Power Through Prayer paperback book by E.M. Bounds, 143 pages
An army chaplain in the Civil War, Bounds wrote this book for Christians who want to be mighty prayer warriors. This classic masterpiece will help you gain a deeper understanding of God’s Word as you pray with power.
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When Your Comfort Zone Gets the Squeeze: Finding the Profit in Pain booklet by Charles R. Swindoll, 34 pages
What lessons can painful situations teach us? How can we respond to trials in a constructive way? Chuck’s straightforward and compassionate approach to pain is a valuable resource for anyone facing tough times.
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Prayers of Charles R. Swindoll, Volume 1: Devotional Prayers on 31 Themes hardcover devotional by Charles R. Swindoll, 96 pages
Chuck’s heartfelt prayers cover the spectrum of life, from death to grace to marriage to temptation. They will encourage you in your pain, help you celebrate in your joy, loosen the knot in your tongue, and free you to express profound truths.
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FEATURED RESOURCE Prayers of Charles R. Swindoll, Volume 2: Devotional Prayers on 31 Themes hardcover, 96 pages
Our Lord is sovereign over our joys and our sorrows. The Prayers of Charles R. Swindoll, Volume 2 models prayer in all situations. Learn to rejoice in the Lord’s goodness, approach His throne of grace, let go of worry and control, and pray in all circumstances.
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ON THE AIR this Month
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Life Lessons Just for Men 4 CD messages
With gut-level honesty, Chuck Swindoll encourages every man to step up to the plate of integrity in their critical roles as leaders, husbands, fathers, and sons of God. God’s Masterwork, Volume Five: God With Us—A Survey of Matthew-Acts 6 CD messages
Job: A Man of Heroic Endurance 22 CD messages
Chuck’s study of Job guides you through the fog of confusion and anger felt in the midst of suffering. You will discover the main focus of the book of Job is not suffering, but his indomitable faith in God.
God’s Masterwork Volume 5 is an overview of Matthew to Acts. He who was promised in the Old Testament becomes present in the New. Messiah arrives. The little, spotless Lamb emerges as sovereign Lord.
22.40
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reg. $32.00
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To Be Perfectly Honest paperback by Phil Callaway, 224 pages
Phil promised to tell the truth for an entire year, and he wasn’t joking. Find out what happens when a follower of Jesus does his level best to always tell the truth.
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1200
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God’s Masterwork, Volume Six: Letters to God’s People —A Survey of RomansPhilemon 13 CD messages
While on earth, Jesus had only one mission: to bring sinners near to God the Father through the payment of His own precious blood. God’s Masterwork Volume 6 presents an overview of Romans to Philemon.
33.60
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reg. $48.00
new email!
Begin your busy day refreshed with wisdom from God’s Word. Chuck Swindoll’s daily devotional email is like a letter from a friend. Gleaned from over 50 years of teaching God’s Word, Chuck’s down-to-earth biblical insights encourage you to face the challenges of each day with God’s perspective. Delivered to your inbox seven days a week, these thought-provoking reflections with selected Scriptures will inspire you to grow closer to God.
To receive this new daily devotional email, go to insightforliving.ca/sign-up today!
info@insightforliving.ca • insightforliving.ca • 1.800.663.7639