Tools for the Trial

 

In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith–more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire–may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:6-7

Thirty inches. That is a lot of snow for us here in Pennsylvania. Because my husband has been ill, my son-in-law knew he would have less help than in years past. By God’s grace, he bought a snow-blower this past Fall.

He spent six hours the first day, while it was still snowing hard, and then eight more the second day, after the snow had stopped. He was able to dig out our four cars, our sidewalks, and the street where we park. Then, he helped some neighbors.

Thank God, someone taught my son-in-law to be prepared for storms!

As I watched him I realized someone (or One) has taught him to be fully prepared. He had thought ahead and planned to be ready for the predicted storm.

• Snow blower ✓
• Gloves ✓
• Gasoline✓
• Goggles✓
• Boots✓
• Shovel✓
• Broom✓

Sadly, snowstorms are not the only storms of life. We are often confronted with circumstances that hit us just as hard. Are we as prepared for them as we are for a snowstorm?

Just as important, are we teaching the next generation to be prepared for the storms of life that the Bible clearly predicts will come into the life of every Christian? Jesus said, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

There are many passages in the scripture we are to teach children so they understand the world and hear the warnings about what the world offers. We are also responsible to teach them what Christ promises to those who love and follow Him. (Exodus 20:5,  Exodus 34:7, Deuteronomy 6:7, Deuteronomy 11:19, Psalm 78:5) 

These commands to teach our children are not to build up our own egos to show off how well our children can recite the Word of God. God commands us, as parents, to prepare our children for the trials that will come.  They need to have a solid understanding of where their hope comes from, so they can minister to others in times of need.

Are we preparing them with God’s ways or with the world’s ways? In a snow storm, or other natural disaster, we are grateful for worldly tools to accomplish the work. In a spiritual storm or battle, we need spiritual tools to win the battle – so do our children.

How are we giving the next generation the tools they will need for their own future storms/trials?