J O H N  W. M O O R E
NUMBERING
OUR DAYS
In Psalm
90, we learn that time is so precious and that our days ought to be numbered
(v. 12). Our life is but a vapor (James 4:14), and we must be careful
to plan our days with useful and helpful endeavors. If care is not taken,
we will find ourselves squandering our time and failing in the education
and nurturing of our children. We must walk circumspectly (i.e. carefully,
like an acrobat), buying up the time because the days are evil (Eph. 5:15-16).
Buying up
the time and numbering our days implies that families ought to have a
course of action for the edification, education, and spiritual exercise
of their children. All secular educational institutions see the necessity
of proper planning for a maximum educational experience. But what about
the family? Is God's educational institution for children any less important?
Should not families have at least a sketchy outline and set objectives
for each family member? Indeed, we should be planning for our children's
spiritual progress and rearing. Parenting involves planning and not passivity.
Consider the following questions in view of the principle of planning:
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1
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From
year to year, month to month, or even week to week, do you have in
mind what you want your children to learn? Why not establish a curriculum
for the home where specific books of the Bible are taught or emphasized
throughout a quarter, etc. Some families create a chart of objectives
to be mastered which involves memorizing pertinent facts, Scriptures,
listings, names, etc., and when that objective is completed, it is
duly noted on the chart so that both children and parents can monitor
the progress. |
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2
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Do
you make arrangements and plan for your child's participation in Bible
camps, "Bible Bowls," youth devotionals, lectureships, etc.? |
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3
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Do
you plan meaningful activities that will reinforce spiritual values,
such as taking your children to visit the sick or the elderly? |
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4
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Do
you involve them in home projects designed to encourage others, such
as baking food for the needy, writing letters to Bible class teachers,
elders, or newcomers? OR, do you allow them to watch hour upon hour
of television or play video games unceasingly? |
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5
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Do
you plan work details for helping the family, such as gardening, yard
work, painting, cleaning, fence-building, etc. These things build
character, impart wisdom, and prevent laziness. Consider these passages:
Proverbs 6:6-11; I Kings 1-5; Ecclesiastes 9:10; Proverbs 24:3-4,
33-34; 26:13-16. |
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6
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Do
you set aside time for Bible class homework assigned by the teacher
in the local congregation? If this is not planned, it can so easily
be forgotten until the mad rush to the building just before Bible
class, when it is impossible to thoroughly concentrate and study. |
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7
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Do
you plan to be at every assembly of the church (Heb. 10:24-25)? |
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8
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Do
you plan your schedule around the activities of the local church,
or do other activities come first? |
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9
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Do
you plan to schedule time for family devotionals? |
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10
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Do
you plan outings for family enjoyment? I have found that a fishing
trip, hike, or a ride in the country are excellent ways to foster
communication and provide teaching opportunities. Observing the design
of God's creation can reinforce the truths our children learn in the
classroom. These outings also provide lasting memories, as funny,
humorous, and serious events often occur. |
Again, these
things will only occur when we plan for them. It is imperative that families
secure the future by making plans today. If we fail to plan, we will one
day experience regret and dismay over what could have been. With children,
we only receive one opportunity. They grow and mature so rapidly; so let
us make the most of these tender years by effectively planning our days
and weeks.
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