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Do you desire to stop reacting in the moment and parent with purpose? Are you ready for a deeper connection with Christ and your child? Purposed Parent/Connected Child episodes focus on educating and equipping you to recognize the unique individual God entrusted to you and will empower you to partner with Him to parent with eternal perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective View all episodes Godly Motherhood View all episodes Do you desire to stop reacting in the moment and parent with purpose? Are you ready for a deeper connection with Christ and your child? Godly Motherhood episodes focus on educating and equipping you to recognize the unique individual God entrusted to you and will empower you to partner with Him to parent with eternal perspective. All episodes Are you in need of hope? Is your spirit lacking joy? Do you seek peace? Are you tired of comparison? The Live With Eternal Perspective podcast was created for women to sharpen their understanding of Jesus and uncover all He desires for us to live a rich life and deepen our love for Him. Uncover how eternal perspective extends beyond our personal walk. Cling to the truth that Jesus has a unique plan for your life and learn how to choose Him over culture. Future episodes will continue to emphasize an intentional, eternal perspective lifestyle while focusing on faith, life, relationships, parenting, and simply sitting at the feet of Jesus to mature our hearts in genuine worship and gratitude. All episodes FIND WHAT YOU NEED

Break the LIE That GOOD Parenting Creates GODLY Kids BE THE FIRST TO KNOW Say goodbye to the LIES culture tells mothers Make mom guilt go away Learn the difference between being a GOOD mom and a GODLY mom Help your children grow with confidence AND stay connected with you Leave a legacy of godliness for generations MEET TERRI, THE AUTHOR MEET TERRI, THE AUTHOR MEET TERRI, THE AUTHOR MEET TERRI, THE AUTHOR MEET TERRI, THE AUTHOR MEET TERRI, THE AUTHOR MEET TERRI, THE AUTHOR MEET TERRI, THE AUTHOR Doing the “right” things WON'T lead your kids to Christ ...written by a mom who tried I wanted my kids to have a childhood that was COMPLETELY different than mine... In doing so, I showed my little ones the world instead of The Way. Sure, I would've said we were a Christian family, but I was doing so many things wrong... with good intentions, of course. What happened? I raised "typical" teens instead of Christians who were set-apart. My adult daughter chose culture over Christ. I DON'T WANT YOU TO GO THROUGH THE SAME STRUGGLES. STOP BEING A "GOOD" MOM... BECOME A GODLY MOM. "This is going to set some mamas FREE. Terri Hitt is a mom who’s been refined by fire. A woman who doesn’t teach from a pedestal but from her knees. And a writer who keeps pointing us back to Jesus, again and again." CAROLYN WILEY, FOUNDER OF ROSE AND PEARL PUBLISHING Good to Godly Book by Terri Hitt Free Chapter Sign-up Be the first to know: BOOK LAUNCH, INSPIRATIONAL MOM STORIES, and PRACTICAL PARENTING WISDOM: First name Last name Email YES, I WANT TO BE A GODLY MOM! Thank you for entrusting your inbox (and time) to me. Please make sure to check your spam folder so we don't miss each other!

I'm Terri Hitt, Christian Motherhood Mentor. I equip women to STOP being good moms - and become GODLY moms who parent with a heart for eternity and raise kids who chase Christ over culture. a Purposed Parenting Plan™️, learn a Motherhood Mindset Model™️, parent the heart of your child, not just the behavior, and learn to disciple, not punish. I also offer a weekly podcast, Purposed Parent Connected Child. Break the parenting beliefs that are holding you back... 🔗COMING SOON - GET YOUR BOOK Do you know the difference between a GOOD mom and a GODLY mom? Hint: A GOOD mom loves her kids but gets sidetracked by day-to-day activities and responsibilities. A GODLY mom lives with eyes on eternity and chases Christ over culture with her kids. Which do you want to be? I WANT TO BE A GODLY MOM! If you're like me, you want your children to have the fruits of the Spirit , but it begins with YOUR walk with Jesus... Your heart may yearn for an even better relationship with your child , but over time commitments and chaotic days crowd out plans you had to grow in Christ. You might feel guilty because you haven't prioritized growing your own relationship with God . It might feel like you don't have enough time in a day, so you hope that your children will somehow mature their walk with God at a once-a-week church service... You're a good mom. Are you ready to become a GODLY mom? Have a deeper CONNECTION with your kids Know how to lead kids to CHRIST, no matter what today's CULTURE looks like STOP being a GOOD mom, so you can become a GODLY mom I WANT TO BE LEARN MORE! SCHEDULE A CALL Schedule a time for a FREE, 15-minute call to talk about how I can help you. Let's exchange emails LISTEN TO THE PODCAST The Godly Motherhood Podcast episodes equip you to choose Christ over culture for your family. On this podcast, we don't settle for lukewarm relationships with our kids, we're all about practical, biblical ways to connect with our children. Listen to the podcast RESOURCES Are you ready to read personalized, faith-led resources for your connection with Christ and your children? Browse my FREE e-book resources to become a godlier mom. View the resources Testimonials "I am always amazed, encouraged, and inspired by listening to Terri's podcasts. She is like your modern Esther of the Bible. Terri embodies such a love for the Lord and a strong clarity about life in a confused culture. Her messages and topics are timeless and relevant. Her mission to mentor women on choosing Christ over culture and to raise children to love and follow the Lord is contagious. I have followed Terri for some time, and I am always in awe at the wonderful things stored in the treasures of her heart. May God continue to bless the work of her hand." Liz - heaven4thehome.com Remember, your child was entrusted to you by God for mentorship and discipleship. You and your children were created for relationship and deep connection with one another and Christ . Children desire relationshi p that fills individual needs inside them based on their unique personality and interests. Only Christ's truths can transform you into an attuned mother for the children He placed with you. I need to share an important truth: If you are not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway them away from Christ. Your children will build identity or confidence through what society, peers, and culture preach. They'll follow the world instead of the Way. I used to want to be a GOOD mom... Losing my firstborn changed my perspective. While raising her I thought I was following Christ, but busy moments influenced me to act more like a mom following the world instead of the Way. My heart and eyes were opened. I no longer wanted to be a good mom, but a GODLY mom. Choosing CHRIST over CULTURE is my ongoing goal as a parent, and I know you want the same for you, too . HI, I'M TERRI → Here's a truth: Christ created connection and knows the way to your child's heart is through Him . He has given you privilege, purpose, and power to raise godly children for Him . That's why I equip you with a PLAN that is as unique as your children and desires are: BECOME A GODLY MOM "And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and all your strength. And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up." Deuteronomy 6:5-7 WHY being a good mom isn't enough ... FREE EBOOK GET THE FREE EBOOK You're on your way to becoming a GODLY mom! Make sure to check your spam folder so youdon't miss your free e-book! Christian Parenting Author Terri Hitt Good to Godly Book On the BLOG The Answer to Building Identity Rooted in Christ - Part 1 You know the answer to building identity rooted in Christ isn't found in the shifting voices of the world, but in the unchanging truth of who they are in Christ. How do you ensure you guide them to that important truth? Going to Church Isn’t Enough to Raise Godly Kids It takes more than several church services to raise godly kids and strengthen a Christian family. Here's what moms can do... How Much Time Should I Spend With God? How many times have you sat with the Father wondering how much longer the passage you were reading would last? Or maybe you wondered whether you've spent enough time in prayer. Is Spanking Biblical? Why do some parents choose to spank instead of correcting their children in another way? What do we think we’re teaching our children when we respond with such forceful correction? Should spanking be the first act a parent takes when a child needs correcting? Are parents behaving biblically when they spank? Or are they succumbing to frustration? View All Posts Statement of Faith and Email Address Step 1 Visit The Set-Apart Collective page. Next Steps Step 2 Fill out your application. BECOME A GODLY MOM Step 3 It's official: You're going to become a GODLY mom! Statement of Faith Terri Hitt believes Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior. At Terri Hitt Co., LLC, we seek to know Him more clearly and humbly depend on Jesus more each moment. We joyfully strive to equip women to leave a legacy of Christ for their family and future generations. We believe in the Truth of God’s Holy Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17) and strive to follow Jesus in life, as well as in coaching practices.

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 118 - How to Help Your Kids Develop Biblical Worldview Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 118 – How to Help Your Kids Develop Biblical Worldview Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast gives you the awareness and tools you need to STOP being a GOOD mom and BECOME the GODLY mom God entrusts you to be. Then you will be the SET-APART woman PURPOSELY raising children to chase CHRIST over culture. Just a quick reminder as we start, if you enjoy Purposed Parent Connected Child podcast episodes, would you please share this episode or others with a friend or family member? When you graciously take a moment to do that, and leave a rating or review at Apple Podcast, you are ensuring that others will find the podcast. When you do, you’re helping affect generations for Jesus. Now on to this episode about how to help your kids develop biblical worldview. My youngest doesn’t talk about her time in China very often. When she does, I listen carefully, storing away pieces of information and memories in my mind and heart to help her process her past as she is ready to manage it. As much as I wish I could have been with her from the beginning, that wasn’t our story. Instead of focusing on what we cannot change, we trust that there was a reason for the time she was without family and we focus on God’s redemptive power, grace, and love so we can be thankful for the time we have together now, and as we look forward to the future. As her mother, it is my divine privilege to love, protect her, and help her continue to move forward. One of the things I’ve noticed is that as time presses forward, she loses what little memories she has of her life in China. Through what she has already shared, I have pieced together patterns that I believe have helped her to process things that happened to her, cope with it in the best way for her, and move forward. What surprises me, however, is that it’s not necessarily the events that happened there that bother her the most. Instead, it’s what didn’t happen. As she continues to learn more about Jesus, read her Bible, study Bible notes, and share in biblical discussions, my youngest has revealed that she’s hurt by the fact that no one in China told her about Jesus. She had no knowledge or information about how to live in ways that offered her joy and hope. Developing a biblical worldview shapes identity and belief system . A strong biblical worldview becomes an unwavering internal compass to lead your actions and reactions. It is essential that Christian mothers train our kids to develop and carry a strong biblical worldview. A biblical worldview will be your child’s lens to viewing the world through God’s eyes and for living with His heart. Sadly, many mothers have not purposed time to prioritize mentorship for their children in this way. They themselves have yet to believe the life-changing effects that a walk with God through relationship with Jesus provides. We see evidence in our society daily. Surprisingly, even people who profess to be Christian do not rely on the unshakable word of God to lead them in truth that shapes convictions and actions. Our ideals for life, how we view life, what we expect, and how we act and react, will stem from something. God should be our source of trust, integrity, cultural beliefs, and lead our desires, reactions, and words. Anything we face in life, whether it be politics, raising children, sanctity of life, marriage, or relationships should seek and adhere to what His holy word teaches and instructs. Unfortunately, our society often values celebrities, politicians, educators, friends, self, or political parties before God. What we must realize is that any cultural ideal we follow or use as a solution or guideline in our life is simply secularism when God is absent from the equation. When humanity promotes or idealizes secular beliefs, we are dangerously following self. Our children will pay the consequences. God’s word is absolute truth. We don’t need relative truth, which our world promotes. Anything apart from God’s truth eventually fails, bringing emptiness, misery, and disaster. When we go astray, I believe it happens because we have not searched and utilized God’s word as our source of light, hope, strength, and guidance. Instead, we often fall back on what is comfortable or easy, or we revert to selfish desires. What we have experienced, what we feel, what we know, or what others say or do often takes control of our flesh and God’s word is forgotten or dismissed. Proverbs 29:18 says, “Where there is no revelation, people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who heeds wisdom’s instruction.” When we don’t heed God’s warnings, promises, or instructions, we lose the divine, righteous guidance of our Heavenly Father; we abandon self to fleshly and sinful desires, as well as making ourselves easily manipulated by others who only look out for self. The ways in which you as a mother engage in culture affects and directs the heart and decisions of your children. How can you train them to carry biblical discernment needed as a follower of Christ? The answer begins with your life. What you believe and follow will most likely be what your child builds his life upon. God’s thoughts and truth must be important and sacred to you in order for them to be what governs and directs your children. Remember, a biblical worldview comes from knowing and living God’s word - from reading, studying, and applying God’s word to every situation. If you ingest God’s word, you’ll be sustained by His holy truths and principles. Then you’ll have the skills to build a strong foundation for your child. Wisdom, insight, and clarity come through walking with God, studying under Him, and allowing Him to mentor you. We develop relationship with God through His word, prayerful reflection, and conversation with Him. Transformation comes when you invite the work of the Holy Spirit to fill and reconstruct your thought processes and responses. Obedience occurs when you step out in faith and trust what you’ve learned. It comes from hearing the Holy Spirit within you as He instructs you on what to do. It deepens when you obey what you hear. If you believe God’s word, carry it as a sacred, guiding counselor within you, and invite the Holy Spirit God deposited within you to transform your life, you will affect the life of your child and lead her to Him. Philippians 4:8 says, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things .” 2 Corinthians 4:4 says, “Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God .” In order to obtain and maintain a biblical worldview, mothers must implement the following 5 steps as a lifestyle priority: 1. Regularly read and study God’s word. This means using an excellent study Bible and searching for answers. Journaling, or keeping notes helps some; writing or memorizing Scripture helps others. Find what works best for you. Make sure you’re reading God’s word regularly (that is key) and that you are breaking it down so that you really understand it. Learn to apply it in all areas of your life. Don’t just get your reading completed for the day and move on without considering what you’ve learned. 2. Trust in God’s sovereignty and His word. Each person has to make a choice as to whether we really believe what we say we do about Jesus. If we don’t, that is our choice. God allows us free will. But if we do believe, then we must make our life reflect that belief. Our eternity and the lives of those around us depend on it. 3. Stand on God’s word for self-worth and values instead of self or society. There are many agendas in this world that are in direct opposition to God. Among them are the way media portrays values and self-worth. God’s word should be your guiding influence. The God of the Universe cannot lie. Believe what He says about you. Let it penetrate your spirit and senses as you deepen your walk with Jesus, affecting everything about you, especially your relationship with your spouse and the way you parent. 4. Focus on God’s truths; don’t allow worldly influences, selfish desires, or Satan to distract or dissuade you from God’s promises or principles. Focusing on the truths and principals of God’s word should be the compass you live by. Make Him your True North and do not allow the deceit and distraction of this world to move you from living steadfastly in His grasp. 5. Look for God in every situation. God isn’t a Sunday morning visitor in our life. He is the core we wrap ourselves around. He is our guide and purpose. Find Him in the ordinary and the exceptional moments of life. He should be the underlying force behind everything we do and are. John 12:25-26 says, “Whoever loves his life will lose it, but whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, My servant will be as well. If anyone serves Me, the Father will honor Him.” Christian mothers must purpose to know Jesus intimately and follow Him without distraction . Inhale Him so you will effortlessly exhale Him on your family. Our life in this world will showcase what we believe and desire. What we believe also details our life after death and for eternity. Those who love this world with a mindset of doing as they wish, chasing what they see here and now will lose what God has purposed for them in this present time, but more importantly, for eternity. We may not see the spiritual realm that is to come, but God’s word makes it clear that this world is not our home. Developing relationship with God through Christ and coming to truly know Jesus through God’s word enables us to mature a love so deep and wide that it creates an eternal bond. Mentor Christ so clearly to your children that their vision is directed upwards toward eternity . Matthew 6:19-21 says, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also .” Dear Heavenly Father, You are the God of all creation, the Maker of Heaven and Earth. Thank you for Your everlasting love and faithfulness to us. We know you have good plans for us, not to harm us, and are for the good of Your kingdom. Help us to live with constant gratitude and a heart that seeks You above all things. Let the way we seek and love You be made evident to the children You have entrusted to our care. May our work for You in their lives be pleasing to You and fruitful or them. This world entices us with riches and momentary blessings that we crave, yet You clearly warn us not to fix our eyes or heart on them. You call us to live set apart as a faithful servant for You. Help us to be found worthy of what You call for us. Give us a heart that cries for You and Your ways. May it be mimicked by our children. Allow us to sit at Your feet with our children and enjoy what You call good. We need You so much, Father. Help us to live a steadfast life that honors all You are. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Raising children is challenging. No one has all the answers because each child is unique as are parenting styles and family dynamics. By connecting with and knowing your children as you maintain purposed growth in Christ, you will be better prepared for any situation you face. That’s why you hear me share about the Set-Apart Collective in this podcast. I work with ambitious women who care about making Jesus known to their children. Are you a high-achieving woman who loves Jesus, but is so busy with the rush of work and daily life that you feel like you’re being drained like the water in your bathtub? Do you yearn to get closer to Jesus and show Him to your kids so you will create a love that will last into eternity? The desire is there, but your days spiral out of control before you even think about opening your Bible. Do you ever stop to think that you are the first Jesus your child will see? Let me remind you there is hope. There is a way you can be equipped to raise kids who chase Christ over culture. If you want a connected relationship with Christ and your children that leads them to your side and His feet, instead of them seeking validation from peers, I have an 8-step program to move you from frustrated to fulfilled. I will show you how to reflect Jesus in a way that attracts your family to a connected relationship that lasts into eternity. Remember, godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset you carry. If you don’t want peers and culture to be the main influence over your child, if you desire to parent to “prepare” your child for eternity with Christ, not repair your relationship with them, the Set-Apart Collective will arm you with a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You’ll also deepen your identity in Christ so you can mentor the way for your children to do the same. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family and you will have the tools to raise set apart kids as you parent the heart, not simply the behavior. Does this sound like a lifeline to help you be that set-apart mom God has entrusted you to be? Visit terrihitt.com/coaching and click the link for a free, no obligation conversation call with me. This is a strategic call where I will hear your biggest struggle and show you how to turn it into a blessing that will bring you closer to Christ and your children. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. Time is short. Make yours matter for eternity. If you need a little jumpstart, visit my website at terrihitt.com/resources. Scroll down near the bottom of the page and click on the link for my free ebook, “Good to Godly: A 31 Day Scripture and Prayer Guide for Moms.” One last thing to remember - if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection with your children and Christ. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #026 – Mind Fixed On Eternity Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. This episode is beginning a little differently. I want to start with a specific request. Right now I want you to concentrate on where your mind is focused. Search beyond this podcast to what was on your mind before it started. Have you ascertained what is engaging your attention? Now think about what is attracting your heart. Deep questions, I know. But ponder your conclusions. Do your answers cause you to fumble or to seize opportunities to draw nearer to God today? We know it takes concentrated effort to live a life pleasing to God. What about a life protected for God with a mind fixed on eternity? Proverbs 4:20-23 says,“ My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not escape from your sight; keep them within your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and healing to all their flesh. Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flows the springs of life.” The springs of life. Some Bible translations say the “wellspring” of life. What does that mean? A wellspring is the head or source of a river, stream, or a spring. It is the source or supply of something that is considered inexhaustible. Who is our wellspring of life? Our Heavenly Father. Does your heart contain what the Father’s would? What He desires for you? Now let’s look at water that flows from a wellspring. Have you ever thought about the purpose of a river? From the mountaintop down to the delta where the river flows into a lake, ocean, or reservoir, the river doesn’t just flow. It changes the surface of the earth as it moves. Just like Jesus did and still does. The water cuts rocks, moves boulders, and permanently changes the land in its path. The river continues on to create a wide and flat valley where it can flow smoothly toward the ocean. Water movement has purpose. Our lives must be as intentional, not just flowing along without a course. As we stay connected to God, our wellspring, life has purpose. We access mighty strength and abilities through the Lord as He works through us, permanently altering and influencing not only us, but those we come into contact with as they witness Him alive and flowing through us. Deuteronomy 11:18 says, “Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads.” If we are to fix His words in our hearts and minds, and bind them on our foreheads, it means we must diligently keep our heart with all vigilance, we are to guard it. To place barriers around it. When we think of protecting something precious to us, we imagine setting a barrier that keeps the item far from harm. Imagine if you lived next to a cliff with a drop of 500 feet. Your curious two year is toddling around the yard. You are distracted and take your eyes off them for just a few moments. As your toddler heads toward the cliff, you continue with your task, unaware that they are almost to the edge. At the last second you look up. Are you devastated that you can’t reach them before they plunge off the side? Or are you relieved that you had the foresight to place guardrails to protect from disaster? Did you build your fence at the edge of the cliff? Or did you build an extra tall, secure, and strong barrier many hundred feet away from the cliff so that your child would never be at risk? Examining our heart inclinations and desires, then placing proper guardrails to protect and nourish our relationship with God is essential if we wish to stay connected to the wellspring and maintain a healthy passage. Instead of feeling restricted, as we place godly boundaries on our heart and mind, we draw nearer to God. We become more sensitive to His heart, ways, and desires for us, and expose ourselves to become attuned to what God is showing and speaking to us. We are to keep God’s words, instructions, and promises to us within our heart and on our mind. We are to be attentive to them, to see and listen to them as we complete our days. They are healing life to us when we obey. Our heart, the feelings we hold in it such as what we love or desire, will govern how we live because we always make the time to do and follow what we think about and enjoy. In Proverbs, Solomon instructs us to make sure we concentrate on what will guard our heart and keep us directed toward God. We are to keep our focus fixed above, with blinders on to what would distract us, and not be sidetracked or detoured by the sin that so easily rules and entangles us in this world. In order to positively influence others for the Lord, we must be living with a mind fixed on eternity, focused with the purpose of making each moment we experience now count for eternity. We live in the present, but our motives are not fixed here. We know our life is a fast blink compared to everlasting days with God. Christians understand that we are supposed to live our lives and manage our priorities in ways that honor God and take each moment captive for Him. Jesus could return at any moment! It’s easy to be caught in the rush of the world we live in and allow the thought of eternity to be shoved into the recesses of our mind, never becoming a thought that causes us to act. Or change. How do we ensure that we purposely seize our moments and days captive for the Lord? How do we make them matter for eternity? How do we ensure that all we experience draws us nearer to Him? How do we focus on living with a mindset fixed on eternity? How do we set on minds on things above, not on earthly things as instructed in Colossians 3:2? We must release ourselves in order for God to transform and revive us. 1. Focus our heart on Jesus. He is the destination and the way simultaneously. 2. Accept God’s sovereignty. 3. Own a study Bible and absorb His word. 4. Follow the Spirit of the Living, Holy God inside us. 5. Pray. 6. Live with an abundant gratitude attitude. 7. Serve Jesus by serving others. Each one of these steps serves a very important purpose in building a strong foundation for living with an eternity-focused mindset and growing and deepening our walk with God through Jesus. Self-evaluation is crucial when we truly desire God to lead our life. Some live with the mindset of having additional time to do what we want and reflect on God later. Or often we think we have released expectations, desires, unforgiveness, bitterness, heartache, dreams, plans, and more to God, but our Heavenly Father is a Master at knowing what is deep within our heart. He understands exactly what we need to surrender and the timing and actions in which He must allow us to do so. One question we need to be brave enough to regularly ask ourselves is, “What am I clutching that I need to release?” Seek the ways you experience emotions or feelings that are contrary to God’s. Feel them and surrender them to Him. Once they are removed, fortify your mind to keep them out. We simply cannot draw nearer to God in a deep and full relationship without trusting His supreme power and authority. While it is beneficial to know that He is good, capable, and in control, it is different than trusting absolutely everything in our life by yielding to God and His dominion over us. We must choose to place our confidence in God in order to fully release our life to Him. It is the only way to begin living with minds fixed on eternity rather than what we experience now. What steps can we take to enable us to surrender ourselves to Him? 1. Read His word. Take that best-selling book off the shelf and invest precious time learning His commands and promises. We cannot recognize deceit and imposters if we do not know the truth. God’s truth. We cannot prepare, strengthen, or protect our mind without modeling His. 2. Pray. Talk to our Heavenly Father. He allows us to call Him father for a reason. He intentionally created each of us and deeply desires intimate relationship with every single one of us. Listen for Him to respond and instruct you. Listen for His discipline. We need both. 3. Pray His words. Mighty power flows through the words of our Father as we pray scripture back to Him with trust and faith. 4. Live with gratitude. Doesn’t it feel good to gift someone and receive their grateful acceptance? Our Father offers us so much, even blessings we fail to see, and we can never give Him enough credit for all He does or has sacrificed for us. Living with gratitude despite circumstances prepares our heart and mind to consistently live with an attitude of gratitude that He richly deserves. 5. Visualize the relationship you want with God and the eternity you would love to share with Him. We must keep our mind focused on what truly matters to create and sustain the lifestyle we need to achieve it. If you want to live a life that will please the Father, you must create and live it today. 6. Seek and Share Him. As we live in ways that honor God and we grow and deepen our walk with Him, He will automatically make a difference in the way we live, speak, and react. He will shine through us in ways that attract others to His light and love and He will direct us to step outside the safety of our comfort zone to serve Him and discover His strength flowing through us. Psalm 143:8 says, “Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.” How much joy each new morning should bring when we commit our ways to Him. Though the days be harsh or afflictions in this life press against us, we can still choose to place our hope and trust in Him. Psalm 62:8 says, “Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.” God is our shelter, our protection from danger. Run to Him. Cry out to Him. Place your hope in Him. Trust Him. Even when we perceive what is happening in our life as good or bad, right, or wrong. Remain full of hope and confident that the Lord is present through any emotion or feeling that may feel otherwise. Recall past faithfulness of God or seek His trustworthiness from His word or the testimony of others. He loves all of us the same. He will be just as steadfast to you. Work to build trust just as you would with any other relationship. It takes effort and desire to grow healthy communication and faith. A person growing a strong relationship with God finds joy in viewing eternity as our final destination and perceives this world as one piece of their life journey. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 says, “Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” We cannot live in true freedom through Jesus if we do not view every moment through our Father’s eternity-driven motives. Even on the cross, Jesus was not centered on Himself, but His Father’s will. He was focused on our eternity. 2 Corinthians 5:6-9 says, “So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord. For we walk by faith, not by sight. We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him.” Most of us believe we are alive and here for a purpose. We must remember the purpose should be centered in God’s will. We must strive to know and obey what He directs for our life. Pivot is such a popular word in our culture right now. Let’s use it for eternity-driven lives. Shift or pivot your mindset and heartset to pattern the life of Jesus and what He came to model for us. Allow Him to teach you how to follow the eternity-driven purposes God has tailor-made for you. If we authentically, with our wounds, scars, pivots, and heart pursue God, then we will also develop the ability to authentically show Him to others. As we deepen and grow our love for Jesus, we are able to genuinely serve Him through the gifts and talents He graced us with for the purpose of serving Him and others. We don’t have to say, “yes” to everyone or everything in order to serve, but a close and obedient relationship with God prompts our response for Him to be, “yes.” Living with eternal perspective encompasses every aspect of our life, as well as those around us. Absolutely everything we do or say, our attitude, gratitude, and mind or heartset, impacts those others for eternity. Our heart, whether purely fixed on following Jesus or corrupt through our flesh and this fallen world, will direct our life. We must guard our heart, allow God to set boundaries, and follow Him through faith, trust, and obedience. Our mind and thoughts become our will and affections. Where are yours directed? How are you affecting others today? How is your life affected by Jesus today? Where are you placing your boundaries? How far are you from the ledge? Where is your mind fixed? Luke 9:25 says, “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost?” Jesus calls us to crucify this temporary life to gain eternal life with and through Him. 1 John 2:15-17 says, “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.” This verse is speaking to three important ways the word, “world” is used in the Bible. We have the system of this world, which opposes the Lord and follows Satan. We see the world of creation, which would mean false gods or idols that this world serves so well, and we know the love of the world, meaning human beings, which might mean that a person has never experienced salvation through Christ. Guard your heart and fix your mind beyond this world. Deuteronomy 6:4-9 says, “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is One. And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as reminders on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorposts of your houses and on your gates.” God is so clear in these verses. Our Heavenly Father urgently instructs us to fix our minds upon Him and to teach of Him diligently at all times. Our thoughts are to remain fixed on Him, through Him, in every way, safeguarding and preserving our minds for Him while we live in this temporary stopping point. Isaiah 40:6-8 says, “The voice said, “Cry out!” And he said, “What shall I cry?” “All flesh is grass, and all its loveliness is like the flower of the field. The grass withers, the flower fades, Because the breath of the Lord blows upon it; Surely the people are grass. The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever.” His word stands forever. John 12:24-25 says, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.” We must fix our minds and hearts on eternity. Revelation 21:1-4 says, “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Our present will pass away. He will dwell with us. Will our hearts and minds be ready? Build your security now. Fix your mind for eternity and drive your actions and attitudes with it. Build that fence far from the cliff. Did you enjoy this episode? Would you like others to hear weekly encouragement to learn how to live with more of an eternal perspective? Right now, because the podcast is new, listeners can’t find it unless they specifically know the name to search for. You can help by leaving a quick review and rating for the show and by sharing about the podcast on social media and word of mouth. Can you think of a friend or family member who might enjoy encouragement? If so, please share this podcast with them. Until next week, keep looking Up and finding new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 026 Mind Fixed On Eternity Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #026 – Mind Fixed On Eternity Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. This episode is beginning a little differently. I want to start with a specific request. Right now I want you to concentrate on where your mind is focused. Search beyond this podcast to what was on your mind before it started. Have you ascertained what is engaging your attention? Now think about what is attracting your heart. Deep questions, I know. But ponder your conclusions. Do your answers cause you to fumble or to seize opportunities to draw nearer to God today? We know it takes concentrated effort to live a life pleasing to God. What about a life protected for God with a mind fixed on eternity? Proverbs 4:20-23 says,“ My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not escape from your sight; keep them within your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and healing to all their flesh. Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flows the springs of life.” The springs of life. Some Bible translations say the “wellspring” of life. What does that mean? A wellspring is the head or source of a river, stream, or a spring. It is the source or supply of something that is considered inexhaustible. Who is our wellspring of life? Our Heavenly Father. Does your heart contain what the Father’s would? What He desires for you? Now let’s look at water that flows from a wellspring. Have you ever thought about the purpose of a river? From the mountaintop down to the delta where the river flows into a lake, ocean, or reservoir, the river doesn’t just flow. It changes the surface of the earth as it moves. Just like Jesus did and still does. The water cuts rocks, moves boulders, and permanently changes the land in its path. The river continues on to create a wide and flat valley where it can flow smoothly toward the ocean. Water movement has purpose. Our lives must be as intentional, not just flowing along without a course. As we stay connected to God, our wellspring, life has purpose. We access mighty strength and abilities through the Lord as He works through us, permanently altering and influencing not only us, but those we come into contact with as they witness Him alive and flowing through us. Deuteronomy 11:18 says, “Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads.” If we are to fix His words in our hearts and minds, and bind them on our foreheads, it means we must diligently keep our heart with all vigilance, we are to guard it. To place barriers around it. When we think of protecting something precious to us, we imagine setting a barrier that keeps the item far from harm. Imagine if you lived next to a cliff with a drop of 500 feet. Your curious two year is toddling around the yard. You are distracted and take your eyes off them for just a few moments. As your toddler heads toward the cliff, you continue with your task, unaware that they are almost to the edge. At the last second you look up. Are you devastated that you can’t reach them before they plunge off the side? Or are you relieved that you had the foresight to place guardrails to protect from disaster? Did you build your fence at the edge of the cliff? Or did you build an extra tall, secure, and strong barrier many hundred feet away from the cliff so that your child would never be at risk? Examining our heart inclinations and desires, then placing proper guardrails to protect and nourish our relationship with God is essential if we wish to stay connected to the wellspring and maintain a healthy passage. Instead of feeling restricted, as we place godly boundaries on our heart and mind, we draw nearer to God. We become more sensitive to His heart, ways, and desires for us, and expose ourselves to become attuned to what God is showing and speaking to us. We are to keep God’s words, instructions, and promises to us within our heart and on our mind. We are to be attentive to them, to see and listen to them as we complete our days. They are healing life to us when we obey. Our heart, the feelings we hold in it such as what we love or desire, will govern how we live because we always make the time to do and follow what we think about and enjoy. In Proverbs, Solomon instructs us to make sure we concentrate on what will guard our heart and keep us directed toward God. We are to keep our focus fixed above, with blinders on to what would distract us, and not be sidetracked or detoured by the sin that so easily rules and entangles us in this world. In order to positively influence others for the Lord, we must be living with a mind fixed on eternity, focused with the purpose of making each moment we experience now count for eternity. We live in the present, but our motives are not fixed here. We know our life is a fast blink compared to everlasting days with God. Christians understand that we are supposed to live our lives and manage our priorities in ways that honor God and take each moment captive for Him. Jesus could return at any moment! It’s easy to be caught in the rush of the world we live in and allow the thought of eternity to be shoved into the recesses of our mind, never becoming a thought that causes us to act. Or change. How do we ensure that we purposely seize our moments and days captive for the Lord? How do we make them matter for eternity? How do we ensure that all we experience draws us nearer to Him? How do we focus on living with a mindset fixed on eternity? How do we set on minds on things above, not on earthly things as instructed in Colossians 3:2? We must release ourselves in order for God to transform and revive us. 1. Focus our heart on Jesus. He is the destination and the way simultaneously. 2. Accept God’s sovereignty. 3. Own a study Bible and absorb His word. 4. Follow the Spirit of the Living, Holy God inside us. 5. Pray. 6. Live with an abundant gratitude attitude. 7. Serve Jesus by serving others. Each one of these steps serves a very important purpose in building a strong foundation for living with an eternity-focused mindset and growing and deepening our walk with God through Jesus. Self-evaluation is crucial when we truly desire God to lead our life. Some live with the mindset of having additional time to do what we want and reflect on God later. Or often we think we have released expectations, desires, unforgiveness, bitterness, heartache, dreams, plans, and more to God, but our Heavenly Father is a Master at knowing what is deep within our heart. He understands exactly what we need to surrender and the timing and actions in which He must allow us to do so. One question we need to be brave enough to regularly ask ourselves is, “What am I clutching that I need to release?” Seek the ways you experience emotions or feelings that are contrary to God’s. Feel them and surrender them to Him. Once they are removed, fortify your mind to keep them out. We simply cannot draw nearer to God in a deep and full relationship without trusting His supreme power and authority. While it is beneficial to know that He is good, capable, and in control, it is different than trusting absolutely everything in our life by yielding to God and His dominion over us. We must choose to place our confidence in God in order to fully release our life to Him. It is the only way to begin living with minds fixed on eternity rather than what we experience now. What steps can we take to enable us to surrender ourselves to Him? 1. Read His word. Take that best-selling book off the shelf and invest precious time learning His commands and promises. We cannot recognize deceit and imposters if we do not know the truth. God’s truth. We cannot prepare, strengthen, or protect our mind without modeling His. 2. Pray. Talk to our Heavenly Father. He allows us to call Him father for a reason. He intentionally created each of us and deeply desires intimate relationship with every single one of us. Listen for Him to respond and instruct you. Listen for His discipline. We need both. 3. Pray His words. Mighty power flows through the words of our Father as we pray scripture back to Him with trust and faith. 4. Live with gratitude. Doesn’t it feel good to gift someone and receive their grateful acceptance? Our Father offers us so much, even blessings we fail to see, and we can never give Him enough credit for all He does or has sacrificed for us. Living with gratitude despite circumstances prepares our heart and mind to consistently live with an attitude of gratitude that He richly deserves. 5. Visualize the relationship you want with God and the eternity you would love to share with Him. We must keep our mind focused on what truly matters to create and sustain the lifestyle we need to achieve it. If you want to live a life that will please the Father, you must create and live it today. 6. Seek and Share Him. As we live in ways that honor God and we grow and deepen our walk with Him, He will automatically make a difference in the way we live, speak, and react. He will shine through us in ways that attract others to His light and love and He will direct us to step outside the safety of our comfort zone to serve Him and discover His strength flowing through us. Psalm 143:8 says, “Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.” How much joy each new morning should bring when we commit our ways to Him. Though the days be harsh or afflictions in this life press against us, we can still choose to place our hope and trust in Him. Psalm 62:8 says, “Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.” God is our shelter, our protection from danger. Run to Him. Cry out to Him. Place your hope in Him. Trust Him. Even when we perceive what is happening in our life as good or bad, right, or wrong. Remain full of hope and confident that the Lord is present through any emotion or feeling that may feel otherwise. Recall past faithfulness of God or seek His trustworthiness from His word or the testimony of others. He loves all of us the same. He will be just as steadfast to you. Work to build trust just as you would with any other relationship. It takes effort and desire to grow healthy communication and faith. A person growing a strong relationship with God finds joy in viewing eternity as our final destination and perceives this world as one piece of their life journey. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 says, “Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” We cannot live in true freedom through Jesus if we do not view every moment through our Father’s eternity-driven motives. Even on the cross, Jesus was not centered on Himself, but His Father’s will. He was focused on our eternity. 2 Corinthians 5:6-9 says, “So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord. For we walk by faith, not by sight. We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him.” Most of us believe we are alive and here for a purpose. We must remember the purpose should be centered in God’s will. We must strive to know and obey what He directs for our life. Pivot is such a popular word in our culture right now. Let’s use it for eternity-driven lives. Shift or pivot your mindset and heartset to pattern the life of Jesus and what He came to model for us. Allow Him to teach you how to follow the eternity-driven purposes God has tailor-made for you. If we authentically, with our wounds, scars, pivots, and heart pursue God, then we will also develop the ability to authentically show Him to others. As we deepen and grow our love for Jesus, we are able to genuinely serve Him through the gifts and talents He graced us with for the purpose of serving Him and others. We don’t have to say, “yes” to everyone or everything in order to serve, but a close and obedient relationship with God prompts our response for Him to be, “yes.” Living with eternal perspective encompasses every aspect of our life, as well as those around us. Absolutely everything we do or say, our attitude, gratitude, and mind or heartset, impacts those others for eternity. Our heart, whether purely fixed on following Jesus or corrupt through our flesh and this fallen world, will direct our life. We must guard our heart, allow God to set boundaries, and follow Him through faith, trust, and obedience. Our mind and thoughts become our will and affections. Where are yours directed? How are you affecting others today? How is your life affected by Jesus today? Where are you placing your boundaries? How far are you from the ledge? Where is your mind fixed? Luke 9:25 says, “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost?” Jesus calls us to crucify this temporary life to gain eternal life with and through Him. 1 John 2:15-17 says, “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.” This verse is speaking to three important ways the word, “world” is used in the Bible. We have the system of this world, which opposes the Lord and follows Satan. We see the world of creation, which would mean false gods or idols that this world serves so well, and we know the love of the world, meaning human beings, which might mean that a person has never experienced salvation through Christ. Guard your heart and fix your mind beyond this world. Deuteronomy 6:4-9 says, “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is One. And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as reminders on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorposts of your houses and on your gates.” God is so clear in these verses. Our Heavenly Father urgently instructs us to fix our minds upon Him and to teach of Him diligently at all times. Our thoughts are to remain fixed on Him, through Him, in every way, safeguarding and preserving our minds for Him while we live in this temporary stopping point. Isaiah 40:6-8 says, “The voice said, “Cry out!” And he said, “What shall I cry?” “All flesh is grass, and all its loveliness is like the flower of the field. The grass withers, the flower fades, Because the breath of the Lord blows upon it; Surely the people are grass. The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever.” His word stands forever. John 12:24-25 says, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.” We must fix our minds and hearts on eternity. Revelation 21:1-4 says, “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Our present will pass away. He will dwell with us. Will our hearts and minds be ready? Build your security now. Fix your mind for eternity and drive your actions and attitudes with it. Build that fence far from the cliff. Did you enjoy this episode? Would you like others to hear weekly encouragement to learn how to live with more of an eternal perspective? Right now, because the podcast is new, listeners can’t find it unless they specifically know the name to search for. You can help by leaving a quick review and rating for the show and by sharing about the podcast on social media and word of mouth. Can you think of a friend or family member who might enjoy encouragement? If so, please share this podcast with them. Until next week, keep looking Up and finding new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 065 - How to Strengthen Connection to My Child and Christ Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 65 – How to Strengthen Connection to My Child and Christ Motherhood is defined in the scary moments. It highlights who we are and molds us into who we will become. Do you know one of the scariest things I’d ever done in my life at the time I became a mother? Hold my newborn baby girl when I was 18 years old. Can you believe that I was more frightened of holding and caring for her than I was of delivering her? Of course, I had all the normal questions about what the delivery would be like. But when it came time to give birth, the delivery came naturally. Caring for my newborn left me feeling overwhelmed, unsure, and alone. What if I dropped her? Would I know what to do when she cried? What if something happened to her at night? Would she stop breathing when she was alone in the crib? When my daughter was born, she weighed six pounds, but felt even tinier. Her little head flopped back and forth so quickly! Her body curled into a ball. You see, I had never held a newborn baby before. My sister and brother were five and six years younger than me, and although I had responsibility for a portion of their care when they were growing up, I never carried that duty when they were babies. I sat on a couch and held them while my mother was around, and helped her with little duties, but that is far from caring for an infant day and night. I really was scared when I thought about caring for my baby after she was born. After my daughter had a week-long hospital stay in intensive care after her birth, my thoughts switched from worry to gratitude that she was going to be fine. The biggest help for me was that while she remained in the hospital, the nurses taught me tips and tricks to care for a newborn. They showed me how to hold her on my lap to burp her, instead of on my shoulder, so that I could better support her head and neck. That position made my daughter feel more secure, and made me feel more capable as a mother. By the time I took her home, I was better prepared to parent our girl. After we were home, the “on the job training” began. It surprised me that it didn’t take long to know my daughter, to understand her cries, and to know what she needed. Now, decades later, when I look back on my early parenting years, I see other areas I wish I had done differently. Number one, I wish I already knew Jesus when I became a mother. Second, I wish I had allowed myself to be better discipled soon after I came to know Him. Next, I wish I had known about attachment parenting when I raised my first set of children. There’s a lot of research about attachment parenting. To be honest, I’m not an expert. I’m not a psychologist. But I am an experienced mother and a follower of Christ. I’m not advocating for particular theories or practices you may read about. However, I do believe that a mother who closely follows Christ, is intentionally maturing her relationship with Him daily, and is attuned to her unique and individual child is practicing what I refer to as attachment parenting. When people ask me what I think the greatest parenting obstacles are, one of my responses (beyond raising your child for Christ) is attachment. Children carrying weak or no attachment to Christ and parents has damaged this generation. If a child and parent are not connected in a close, respectful, growing relationship, the child will most likely not follow the parent’s model for a relationship with Christ. If they have one. Before my husband and I began raising our second set of children, I realized things I wanted to change. It wasn't because I felt my first set of children weren't good . It was because God impressed on me the holy need to forget good and raise children to be godly . I recognized areas in which I felt convicted that I had not been a godly mother, and had only been a good mom. I think when they stop to think about it, most parents would agree that there are universal thoughts related to “good parenting” or “good children.” Do you sometimes feel like you just want your children to behave? Have you ever been embarrassed by something your children did? Were you afraid their actions made you look like a “bad parent?” Have you ever just wanted your child to make you look good by being a “good” child? I also believe some people parent for convenience. In fact, anyone can easily fall victim to it. When those hard moments of parenting arise, it takes great effort and skill to parent for eternal purposes rather than succumb to whatever is easiest in the moment. Mothers, we must resist cultural influences of this society. Instead, we must look to God to equip us to raise the unique children He purposely entrusted to us. Raising another human being (or beings) is never going to be easy. Why do we ever expect it to be? Raising another person from infancy to adulthood is a daunting task even to think about. When you’re in the trenches and things go backwards or sideways, it can be hard to think of the job as a privilege or blessing from God. We just want it to be easy, or at the very least, we want to feel successful and loved. If you’ve ever felt powerless, hopeless, frustrated, or confused about what to do with your child, you’re not alone. A great majority of parents thought parenting would be different than it is. The truth is that parenting seems different than it was for previous generations. And don’t get me started on “typical” childhood or teen behavior. I’m not a part of that mindset. I believe God calls believers to raise kids who are set-apart, and that means far from “typical.” In fact, if you’ve listened to previous episodes of this podcast, you’ve probably heard episode #063, which was all about not raising typical teens. I believe children have replaced attachment with mom and dad for attachment to peers . That’s a concerning thought, because when parents lose the status of mentor or influencer in the life of their children, the home, then in turn, the world, is altered. That’s the result we are seeing in America today. Cultural (meaning society) influences have a stronger attraction than traditional family values and is more important to teens. As kids follow kids, traditions, morals, values, and relationships suffer. Most importantly, parents lose the blessing of teaching their child the way Deuteronomy 6:5-9 , instructs, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates ." What a beautiful image this passage offers! God gives specific instructions on how to make Him known to our children. When people complain about not receiving a parenting handbook, I like to remind them that our merciful Father gifted us a complete volume of instructions for life and parenting in the Bible . Deuteronomy offers beautiful, godly insight into how to build a firm foundation under our children, as well as how to continue constructing a heart of faith and obedience to Christ for a lifetime. If you're like I was when I raised my first set of children, time slipped by SO quickly each day. Even though I tried so hard to be a good mom, working full time combined with life activities always left me wondering how I could do more. I felt inadequate at times, unknowingly following worldly wisdom and hoping what I did was right. I knew I was a good mom, an excellent one in the eyes of culture. But as I listened to quiet stirrings in my soul through a deepened walk with Christ, I later recognized parenting areas I wish I had built differently by purposely constructing them on the foundation of Christ. Ignorance allowed me to think I was already doing that, but hindsight exposes the opposite. The closer we move to Christ, the more He opens our eyes, heart, and mind to His truths. May we never be the person or parent we are today when tomorrow arrives! Years later, I sat at work, envisioning how I would parent for the Lord if I was a new parent again. In hindsight, I now understand God was preparing me for the parenting journey He had in store, because a few years later, my husband and I adopted a precious baby girl and a new generation of parenting began. This time, our matured walk with Christ led my husband and I to plan parenting years much like people should plan for retirement or saving . We purposed our path and prayed over every step. We took classes on attachment parenting for adoption, and I realized this was the type of parenting I should have done years ago. So what is the secret to strengthening connection with your child and Christ? Being purposed with connected parenting . Through prayer and a purposed parenting plan, you and your child will experience relationship with God and one another that will last into eternity. Although none of us can be perfect parents this side of Heaven, I know the steps we planned and implemented pleased the Lord and allowed us to enjoy a second generation of daughters who chose Christ over culture. I want to encourage and equip you to do the same with your children. Despite what society shows or says, the greatest privilege a mother can receive is the blessing of raising children to know and love God through relationship with Jesus. To be entrusted to raise a child for Him, and to help that child come to the saving knowledge of Jesus as Savior, then to discover and step into the purpose for which God designed them is indeed a sacred honor! Have you thought about the future God wants for your child (or grandchild)? God is trusting you to follow His commands. He allowed the children in your life to be with and influenced by you. One of the most important sacrifices we can make for our children is surrender . When we humbly bow before God, ready and willing to allow Him full reign in our life, we are setting the path for a purposed parenting journey that will model Jesus to the little people so important in our life. When we realize that attachment to Christ also fosters a strong attachment between self and child, we are better equipped to model the lifestyle we want our children to emulate. As we mature our walk with Christ, we are better able to mature the walk of our child. So with a busy lifestyle, how does a woman begin to move from a good mom to godly mother? Even with the best intentions, each day only has 24 hours, and if you’re like me, you hope to get at least 7 hours of sleep. That cuts the day even shorter. That’s why I named this podcast Purposed Parent/Connected Child. No matter how well intentioned you may be, the dreams in your mind or love in your heart are not enough. Hours blend into another so fast, but months and years slip by without you even noticing. Without purposed plans and actions, your children will grow up following peers and culture before you know it. The truth is that you can never force your child to accept Christ. Just as God gave you free will to follow Him, your child receives the same choice. Yet if you live in humble submission to Christ and intentionally pursue deeper relationship daily, modeling the life of Jesus in your own passions and pursuits, your child will witness godly love in action and be drawn to Him. When you study and follow the words in the passage from Deuteronomy 6:5-9 that I read earlier, you will take the next step in purposed parenting for Christ. There is nothing more important you can do for your children or grandchildren. When we were preparing to adopt our first daughter from China, we were required to complete a certain number of parenting course training hours. Because our daughter was living in an orphanage, she had already had less than optimum care. No matter the heart of the nannies in charge of child care, their lack of resources, training, caregivers, and time, left the overwhelming number of children in need lacking attention, attachment, and basic needs fulfillment. The training was meant to equip us as parents to understand what this need may present itself like in our child, and show us how to be proactive in our care. The information I learned enabled me to see that all parenting, whether the child be adopted or biological, should strive to attach children and parents through purposed methods. Life isn’t smooth. Events happen that cause division and stressors in any home. Deaths, divorces, job losses, and so many other triggers combined with individual needs and personalities leave parents and children vulnerable. Through our courses, I saw the pattern of parenting with the purpose of connecting to the heart of the child, and understood that in a Christian context, we would never reach the heart of a child unless we know Christ and were led by the Holy Spirit. Likewise, a child must see the heart of Christ within their parent in order to ever see the need for Him in their personal life. As we parent, we must be purposed and prayerfully pursue connection with the heart of our child, while at the same time connecting their heart to Christ. Please feel free to reach out to me if you need resources on how to parent with strong, godly connection at info@terrihitt.com . There are also several early episodes of this podcast dealing with purposed parenting for Christ. Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for allowing us the privilege of raising children for You. Our heart desires to grab hold and keep them to ourselves, but in reality, they are Yours and only loaned to us for a short time. Lord, the years fly by faster than we even think they will. What a gift those precious years are, even when we don’t realize it at the time. May every mother listening to this podcast realize the beauty of the purpose of motherhood and strive to raise godly children who are set-apart from this culture and connected to You with purpose. Help us to be pleasing in our walk with You and through our parenting practices. May we and our children bring You great joy. In the precious name of Jeus we pray. Amen. Supporting and encouraging mothers to rest in Christ and pursue a holy relationship with Him so they purposely raise set-apart children is the cry of my heart. I believe godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset a mother carries. That’s why I’ve created the Set-Apart Collective. Would you like to walk with other like-minded mothers to deepen your walk with Christ, learn a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan? I want to share special news with my podcast listeners. The Set-Apart Collective wait list is open now. Send me an email at info@terrihitt.com to let me know you’d like to receive information and a special code to receive a discount if you find you’d like to join the collective. It’s time for mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. If you connected in some way with this episode, would you please rate and review the podcast on Apple or Spotify? The best reviews are by word of mouth, so if you would also choose a friend to recommend the show to, imagine the change we could see in the way mothers parent for Christ. Also, please tell friends and family that the podcast can be found at terrihitt.com, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Spotify, and on the Edifi app, where you can hear thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place. Remember, if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will likely sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #063 – Praying Scripture – Part 1 Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. On a recent Sunday evening, I asked my family to sit with me for a special prayer time. Are you this way? Do you need to share your heart with your family to get their support through prayer? That is exactly how I was feeling. I knew I could pray on my own, but I had ideas to ponder, emotions to share, and needed input from the people who know and love me the best and who would agree to pray with me because they also believe in the power of lifting requests to our Heavenly Father. At our house, my youngest receives electronic privileges before bedtime. When we all sat down to talk, it was less than an hour before her scheduled time to play, but I felt fairly certain we would be finished before she would see the clock ticking into her special time. As I began sharing all that I was experiencing and the needs I wanted my family to pray about, the clock chimed eight o’clock and we were still talking. After sharing all the feelings and thoughts that were heavy on my heart, Brooklyn asked if we could pray. Assuming she was antsy to get finished, I agreed that we could go ahead and pray at that time. We decided who would pray first and who would end, and began. Several minutes later, we finished, and I told our girl she could be excused to play. Wanting to stay with us, she looked a little surprised. I was blessed to hear her say that she wanted to stay and finish the discussion with us. So often, we assume we know what others are thinking or what their motives are. How wrong we can be. Brooklyn had wanted to get our prayer started because she knew I needed it. My heart was emotionally needy for what only God could provide, and recognizing this, she jumped ahead to get guidance and assistance from God started immediately. If you also pray regularly with your family, I bet you will agree that it is difficult to imagine life without this simple act of obedience and faith. Praying together has grown each of us individually and collectively in ways only God can explain. He goes before us, paving ground that we need later and providing for us in intimate ways only the Lord can know. James 5:13-16 says, “Are any of you suffering hardships? You should pray. Are any of you happy? You should sing praises. Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you, anointing you with oil in the name of the Lord. Such a prayer offered in faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well. And if you have committed any sins, you will be forgiven. Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.” Praying together opens our hearts to God in ways that invites His intervention. We also create deeper intimacy with our loved ones as we pray together. Whether we are suffering hardships, living in fullness of joy, praising, in need of healing, or forgiveness, God desires our heartfelt and faithful pleas to intercede with His will. The Lord honors a parent raising their children for Him and delights when we teach them to rely on Him for all of their needs and are living examples as to how to do so. Matthew 18:20 says, “For where two or three gather together in My name, there am I with them.” God delights in blessing families who invite Him into their midst to pray together. Praying together is essential. Do you know what makes prayer time more effective and meaningful? Using scripture to pray. Although my family is good about praying together, I want us to become stronger at praying God’s word daily. Praying scripture enables us to become stronger at knowing God’s word and allows us to release His power into our life. Specifically seeking His word and utilizing it in our prayers is a faithful and trusting act of obedience as we rely on God’s powerful words and truths. To pray His word, we must know it, study it, and claim it. By purposely connecting our heart to God’s and intentionally praying His words, we are beseeching our Heavenly Father to use His will, just as Jesus modeled for us. In order to prepare ourselves or our family to deepen prayer time individually and collectively by drawing nearer to God and using His word as ours, we may need to examine and adjust the way we pray. Prepare your heart and mind to connect with intimate devotion to God by crafting your language to align with scripture. Here are a few examples of how to enter the presence of the Lord and initiate your prayer. Ephesians 3:12 says, “Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God’s presence.” When praying scripture, we simply craft God’s words and truths into the prayer we speak to Him. When entering God’s presence through prayer, we may use this verse from Ephesians to say, “Father, because of your gift to us through Christ, and the faith I have in Him, I thank you that I can now boldly and confidently enter into Your presence.” Hebrews 10:19-23 says, “And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God’s house, let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ’s blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.” Using this passage, our prayer could be, Gracious Heavenly Father, because of the blood of Jesus, I know I can enter Your Most Holy Place. By His death Jesus has given me intimate and holy access to You. I enter Your presence with a sincere heart of trust knowing my guilt has been covered through the sacrifice of the blood of Jesus. I know that because He has washed me with pure water, I can hold tightly and without waver to the hope You have affirmed and that I can trust You to keep Your promises to me. Romans 8:26-28 says, “And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will. And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” Our prayer through this passage might be, Holy Spirit, I trust that You help me in my weakness. Draw near to me. My emotions are too complex; I cannot utter what I need to pray. Please intercede and express my needs in groanings that cannot be expressed by mere words. My Heavenly Father, Who knows all hearts, will understand as You plead for me in harmony with His will. I believe that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. Thank you for Your goodness and faithfulness to me. Psalm 18:30 says, “As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.” This beautiful verse can be spoken as we enter into prayer or call upon His truths from this verse when we need protection, reassurance, or comfort. Father God, Your way is perfect; Your word is flawless. You are my shield when I take refuge in You. Do you see the beauty and inspiration God’s word brings? Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Praying God’s living, active word releases His profound power as we believe, trust, and call upon it to judge our intentions and do the work God wills. Why don’t most of us utilize this method of prayer more often? Probably because our lives are so fast-paced that we tend to believe we can come to God with requests when we need to. We do not stop to consider that we possess privilege and strength in God’s holy word. By relying on self, even though we do not consciously realize we are doing it, we lose the strength, peace, joy, and relief we could access at any moment, as well as the power released when we pray God’s word. We also miss the blessing of a more personal and intimate relationship with our Heavenly Father, who created us to enjoy fellowship with Him. 2 Samuel 22:31 says, “As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.” Let’s examine several Bible verses and how we can accept God’s invitation to seek refuge in Him through His perfect word and ways. Most mothers pray not only for themselves, but seek God through prayer for their spouse, children, and family. We also offer intercessory pray for friends, co-workers, strangers, and elected officials. Possibilities for prayer are vast. So is God’s omnipotence. Imagine the authority and blessings we miss when we consider ourselves too busy to delve into His word and claim His truths as our provision in every area. Praying scripture strengthens our bonds with God as we trust His word and rely on Him for every need as our mind and heart align with His. Ecclesiastes 5:2 says, “Do not be quick to speak, and do not be hasty in your heart to utter a word before God. After all, God is in heaven and you are on earth. So let your words be few.” When we begin praying with God’s word, our mind and heart are directed toward His desires and will for us and others. We should not hastily come before Him with our own agenda. God’s word allows us to see with His eyes and submit to His heart and sovereignty. Isaiah 55:6-9 says, “Seek the Lord while He may be found; call on Him while He is near. Let the wicked man forsake his own way and the unrighteous man his own thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that He may have compassion, and to our God, for He will freely pardon. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.” Studying, then using God’s word as the groundwork for our prayers allows us to absorb His truths and righteousness in ways we may have never experienced. As we use the verses from Isaiah 55, our prayer could be something like this: Father, I seek You while You may be found, I call on You while You are near. Help me forsake my own way, will, and thoughts and return to You while You have compassion and will freely pardon. My thoughts are certainly not Yours, as my ways are not Yours. As the heavens are higher than the earth, Your ways and thoughts are higher than mine. I submit to You and Your ways for me. Approaching God, our Father, the Creator of heaven and earth with a sincere and humble heart ready to accept His will for us and genuinely craving to please and follow Him changes the way we pray. It alters our desires. It cleanses our heart and mind and prepares our spirit for His cleansing and higher growth in and for Him. Prayer exposes our core belief system. Kneeling before our Lord in supplication, whether literally or through our heart, mindset, and actions, is a natural extension of our personal relationship with and our trust, faith, and belief in Him. Our reliance on God through the act of prayer exhibits our dependence on our Heavenly Father, humbling our position with Him, and improving the level of our reliance on Him. How do we establish this lifestyle of prayer? The important word to ponder shouldn’t be how, but rather, Who. Jesus is our life and prayer model. When God sent His son to earth as a sacrifice for our sins and to form a way to Him, it was the most extravagant gift He could give us. Our sovereign God stepped into this world through flesh to exist and walk among us. He came to show us exactly how to live, suffer, love, rejoice, and how to pray. Each day should bring us closer to the Father’s heart in numerous ways, prayer included. As we depend on the Father through the act of prayer, we humbly seek Him in new and deeper ways by using His sacred, living word as a guide for submission, conversation, and conversion with Him. Prepare to connect with God in intimate devotion by shifting your heart to align with scripture, our Father’s will. 1. Jesus’s prayers were an example for us to follow. Jesus is God in human form. Jesus did not need to pray, yet He lived and suffered as a human, relinquishing everything for us, even to the point of death, modeling the ways we are to live as we trust in and rely on Him. 2. Jesus prayers were the perfect instruction in communication. Every prayer He uttered is a holy framework for us to follow. 3. Jesus’s prayers modeled submission in the purest form. Jesus genuinely shared all: His heart, fears, pain, sorrows, hopes, anything. Yet, He did not expect to get His way. Jesus trusted God’s sovereign will and ways and yielded His desires to the Father. 4. Jesus’s prayers proved reliance on God. Rather than complaining or protesting, Jesus accepted the will of God and honored what He was called to do, despite great suffering and personal cost. Prayer instructs us in holiness. Just as Jesus modeled for us, we must pray in specific ways. As we offer God’s holy words back to Him through prayer we accomplish the ability to do the following: 1. Pray with sincerity. 2. Pray with submission to holy preeminence. 3. Pray with faith. 4. Pray with trust in God’s timing. 5. Pray with heart, but yield to God’s will. 6. Pray consistently. 7. Pray with focus. Isaiah 55:11 says, “So My word that proceeds from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and it will prosper where I send it.” May the prayer we offer be something like this: Father, I know that every word that proceeds from Your mouth will not return to You empty. Your words will prosper as they accomplish what You please. Help my thoughts and attitude be as Yours are and my words be Yours as I speak my heart and requests. Now that we realize the importance of praying not only the words of our soul, but of aligning our heart, mind, and words to match God’s through study of the Bible and growth of our relationship with Him through Jesus, may we deepen our walk even more through scriptural prayers. Join me next week as I share several verses, scripture passages, and craft prayers from each that will help us study, learn, and use God’s words as the backbone of prayer time with our Heavenly Father. Heavenly Father, Hallelujah! How good it is to sing praises to You, our God. How pleasant and lovely our words are to You as we lift praise and submission to Your will through Your holy words to us. Thank you for allowing us Jesus as our perfect sacrifice and mentor to bring us to You. Your words are faithful and true. Help our hearts be the same as we draw nearer to You. Help us hear and lift Your words as a sacrifice and offering to know and follow You more deeply. Thank you for sending us truth, love, and hope. In Your precious and holy name we pray. Amen Thank you for listening to this podcast. If prayer is a topic you would like to learn more about, you may enjoy listening to episode 18, “Prayer.” Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture. I’m thrilled to share that my latest free resource, “Scattering Seeds: Planting Character and Faith in Your Child” has released! This eBook is an excellent encouragement and support for mothers or grandmothers of young children. I encourage you to visit my website to access and download it soon. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 063 - Praying Scripture - Part 1 Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #063 – Praying Scripture – Part 1 Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. On a recent Sunday evening, I asked my family to sit with me for a special prayer time. Are you this way? Do you need to share your heart with your family to get their support through prayer? That is exactly how I was feeling. I knew I could pray on my own, but I had ideas to ponder, emotions to share, and needed input from the people who know and love me the best and who would agree to pray with me because they also believe in the power of lifting requests to our Heavenly Father. At our house, my youngest receives electronic privileges before bedtime. When we all sat down to talk, it was less than an hour before her scheduled time to play, but I felt fairly certain we would be finished before she would see the clock ticking into her special time. As I began sharing all that I was experiencing and the needs I wanted my family to pray about, the clock chimed eight o’clock and we were still talking. After sharing all the feelings and thoughts that were heavy on my heart, Brooklyn asked if we could pray. Assuming she was antsy to get finished, I agreed that we could go ahead and pray at that time. We decided who would pray first and who would end, and began. Several minutes later, we finished, and I told our girl she could be excused to play. Wanting to stay with us, she looked a little surprised. I was blessed to hear her say that she wanted to stay and finish the discussion with us. So often, we assume we know what others are thinking or what their motives are. How wrong we can be. Brooklyn had wanted to get our prayer started because she knew I needed it. My heart was emotionally needy for what only God could provide, and recognizing this, she jumped ahead to get guidance and assistance from God started immediately. If you also pray regularly with your family, I bet you will agree that it is difficult to imagine life without this simple act of obedience and faith. Praying together has grown each of us individually and collectively in ways only God can explain. He goes before us, paving ground that we need later and providing for us in intimate ways only the Lord can know. James 5:13-16 says, “Are any of you suffering hardships? You should pray. Are any of you happy? You should sing praises. Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you, anointing you with oil in the name of the Lord. Such a prayer offered in faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well. And if you have committed any sins, you will be forgiven. Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.” Praying together opens our hearts to God in ways that invites His intervention. We also create deeper intimacy with our loved ones as we pray together. Whether we are suffering hardships, living in fullness of joy, praising, in need of healing, or forgiveness, God desires our heartfelt and faithful pleas to intercede with His will. The Lord honors a parent raising their children for Him and delights when we teach them to rely on Him for all of their needs and are living examples as to how to do so. Matthew 18:20 says, “For where two or three gather together in My name, there am I with them.” God delights in blessing families who invite Him into their midst to pray together. Praying together is essential. Do you know what makes prayer time more effective and meaningful? Using scripture to pray. Although my family is good about praying together, I want us to become stronger at praying God’s word daily. Praying scripture enables us to become stronger at knowing God’s word and allows us to release His power into our life. Specifically seeking His word and utilizing it in our prayers is a faithful and trusting act of obedience as we rely on God’s powerful words and truths. To pray His word, we must know it, study it, and claim it. By purposely connecting our heart to God’s and intentionally praying His words, we are beseeching our Heavenly Father to use His will, just as Jesus modeled for us. In order to prepare ourselves or our family to deepen prayer time individually and collectively by drawing nearer to God and using His word as ours, we may need to examine and adjust the way we pray. Prepare your heart and mind to connect with intimate devotion to God by crafting your language to align with scripture. Here are a few examples of how to enter the presence of the Lord and initiate your prayer. Ephesians 3:12 says, “Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God’s presence.” When praying scripture, we simply craft God’s words and truths into the prayer we speak to Him. When entering God’s presence through prayer, we may use this verse from Ephesians to say, “Father, because of your gift to us through Christ, and the faith I have in Him, I thank you that I can now boldly and confidently enter into Your presence.” Hebrews 10:19-23 says, “And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God’s house, let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ’s blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.” Using this passage, our prayer could be, Gracious Heavenly Father, because of the blood of Jesus, I know I can enter Your Most Holy Place. By His death Jesus has given me intimate and holy access to You. I enter Your presence with a sincere heart of trust knowing my guilt has been covered through the sacrifice of the blood of Jesus. I know that because He has washed me with pure water, I can hold tightly and without waver to the hope You have affirmed and that I can trust You to keep Your promises to me. Romans 8:26-28 says, “And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will. And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” Our prayer through this passage might be, Holy Spirit, I trust that You help me in my weakness. Draw near to me. My emotions are too complex; I cannot utter what I need to pray. Please intercede and express my needs in groanings that cannot be expressed by mere words. My Heavenly Father, Who knows all hearts, will understand as You plead for me in harmony with His will. I believe that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. Thank you for Your goodness and faithfulness to me. Psalm 18:30 says, “As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.” This beautiful verse can be spoken as we enter into prayer or call upon His truths from this verse when we need protection, reassurance, or comfort. Father God, Your way is perfect; Your word is flawless. You are my shield when I take refuge in You. Do you see the beauty and inspiration God’s word brings? Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Praying God’s living, active word releases His profound power as we believe, trust, and call upon it to judge our intentions and do the work God wills. Why don’t most of us utilize this method of prayer more often? Probably because our lives are so fast-paced that we tend to believe we can come to God with requests when we need to. We do not stop to consider that we possess privilege and strength in God’s holy word. By relying on self, even though we do not consciously realize we are doing it, we lose the strength, peace, joy, and relief we could access at any moment, as well as the power released when we pray God’s word. We also miss the blessing of a more personal and intimate relationship with our Heavenly Father, who created us to enjoy fellowship with Him. 2 Samuel 22:31 says, “As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.” Let’s examine several Bible verses and how we can accept God’s invitation to seek refuge in Him through His perfect word and ways. Most mothers pray not only for themselves, but seek God through prayer for their spouse, children, and family. We also offer intercessory pray for friends, co-workers, strangers, and elected officials. Possibilities for prayer are vast. So is God’s omnipotence. Imagine the authority and blessings we miss when we consider ourselves too busy to delve into His word and claim His truths as our provision in every area. Praying scripture strengthens our bonds with God as we trust His word and rely on Him for every need as our mind and heart align with His. Ecclesiastes 5:2 says, “Do not be quick to speak, and do not be hasty in your heart to utter a word before God. After all, God is in heaven and you are on earth. So let your words be few.” When we begin praying with God’s word, our mind and heart are directed toward His desires and will for us and others. We should not hastily come before Him with our own agenda. God’s word allows us to see with His eyes and submit to His heart and sovereignty. Isaiah 55:6-9 says, “Seek the Lord while He may be found; call on Him while He is near. Let the wicked man forsake his own way and the unrighteous man his own thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that He may have compassion, and to our God, for He will freely pardon. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.” Studying, then using God’s word as the groundwork for our prayers allows us to absorb His truths and righteousness in ways we may have never experienced. As we use the verses from Isaiah 55, our prayer could be something like this: Father, I seek You while You may be found, I call on You while You are near. Help me forsake my own way, will, and thoughts and return to You while You have compassion and will freely pardon. My thoughts are certainly not Yours, as my ways are not Yours. As the heavens are higher than the earth, Your ways and thoughts are higher than mine. I submit to You and Your ways for me. Approaching God, our Father, the Creator of heaven and earth with a sincere and humble heart ready to accept His will for us and genuinely craving to please and follow Him changes the way we pray. It alters our desires. It cleanses our heart and mind and prepares our spirit for His cleansing and higher growth in and for Him. Prayer exposes our core belief system. Kneeling before our Lord in supplication, whether literally or through our heart, mindset, and actions, is a natural extension of our personal relationship with and our trust, faith, and belief in Him. Our reliance on God through the act of prayer exhibits our dependence on our Heavenly Father, humbling our position with Him, and improving the level of our reliance on Him. How do we establish this lifestyle of prayer? The important word to ponder shouldn’t be how, but rather, Who. Jesus is our life and prayer model. When God sent His son to earth as a sacrifice for our sins and to form a way to Him, it was the most extravagant gift He could give us. Our sovereign God stepped into this world through flesh to exist and walk among us. He came to show us exactly how to live, suffer, love, rejoice, and how to pray. Each day should bring us closer to the Father’s heart in numerous ways, prayer included. As we depend on the Father through the act of prayer, we humbly seek Him in new and deeper ways by using His sacred, living word as a guide for submission, conversation, and conversion with Him. Prepare to connect with God in intimate devotion by shifting your heart to align with scripture, our Father’s will. 1. Jesus’s prayers were an example for us to follow. Jesus is God in human form. Jesus did not need to pray, yet He lived and suffered as a human, relinquishing everything for us, even to the point of death, modeling the ways we are to live as we trust in and rely on Him. 2. Jesus prayers were the perfect instruction in communication. Every prayer He uttered is a holy framework for us to follow. 3. Jesus’s prayers modeled submission in the purest form. Jesus genuinely shared all: His heart, fears, pain, sorrows, hopes, anything. Yet, He did not expect to get His way. Jesus trusted God’s sovereign will and ways and yielded His desires to the Father. 4. Jesus’s prayers proved reliance on God. Rather than complaining or protesting, Jesus accepted the will of God and honored what He was called to do, despite great suffering and personal cost. Prayer instructs us in holiness. Just as Jesus modeled for us, we must pray in specific ways. As we offer God’s holy words back to Him through prayer we accomplish the ability to do the following: 1. Pray with sincerity. 2. Pray with submission to holy preeminence. 3. Pray with faith. 4. Pray with trust in God’s timing. 5. Pray with heart, but yield to God’s will. 6. Pray consistently. 7. Pray with focus. Isaiah 55:11 says, “So My word that proceeds from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and it will prosper where I send it.” May the prayer we offer be something like this: Father, I know that every word that proceeds from Your mouth will not return to You empty. Your words will prosper as they accomplish what You please. Help my thoughts and attitude be as Yours are and my words be Yours as I speak my heart and requests. Now that we realize the importance of praying not only the words of our soul, but of aligning our heart, mind, and words to match God’s through study of the Bible and growth of our relationship with Him through Jesus, may we deepen our walk even more through scriptural prayers. Join me next week as I share several verses, scripture passages, and craft prayers from each that will help us study, learn, and use God’s words as the backbone of prayer time with our Heavenly Father. Heavenly Father, Hallelujah! How good it is to sing praises to You, our God. How pleasant and lovely our words are to You as we lift praise and submission to Your will through Your holy words to us. Thank you for allowing us Jesus as our perfect sacrifice and mentor to bring us to You. Your words are faithful and true. Help our hearts be the same as we draw nearer to You. Help us hear and lift Your words as a sacrifice and offering to know and follow You more deeply. Thank you for sending us truth, love, and hope. In Your precious and holy name we pray. Amen Thank you for listening to this podcast. If prayer is a topic you would like to learn more about, you may enjoy listening to episode 18, “Prayer.” Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture. I’m thrilled to share that my latest free resource, “Scattering Seeds: Planting Character and Faith in Your Child” has released! This eBook is an excellent encouragement and support for mothers or grandmothers of young children. I encourage you to visit my website to access and download it soon. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 100 - Purposed Parenting to Build Generational Faith and Leave an Eternal Legacy with Rachel-Ruth Lotz Wright and Riggin Wright Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 100 – Purposed Parenting to Build Generational Faith and Leave an Eternal Legacy with Rachel-Ruth Lotz Wright and Riggin Wright Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast deepens your walk with Jesus and your children, and equips you to become a set-apart woman raising children to chase Christ over culture. Today I have the joy of sharing a conversation with two special guests. My first guest, Rachel-Ruth Lotz Wright was born and raised in Raleigh, North Carolina. She’s the daughter of Daniel and Anne Graham Lotz and granddaughter of Billy and Ruth Graham. Following graduation from Baylor University in Waco, TX, she married Steven Wright, a high school football coach, and they have three daughters: Bell, Sophia, and Riggin. Rachel-Ruth teaches a weekly women’s Bible Study that originated at the University of North Carolina and now, through Zoom, has gone worldwide. She also shares God’s Word at numerous events around the country. She serves on the Board of Directors for AnGeL Ministries, in addition to chairing the weekly prayer team that undergirds her mother’s ministry. Her passion for leading children to Jesus and getting them into God’s Word helped to inspire her mother’s first children’s book, Heaven: God’s Promise for Me. She has co-authored two books with her mother, Jesus Followers, and Preparing to Meet Jesus. Rachel-Ruth feels called to encourage others to fall in love with Jesus through the teaching of His Word. My second guest, Riggin Wright is the daughter of Rachel-Ruth Lotz Wright and Steven Wright. She’s a high school senior. Riggin is very involved in sports and just like her mom, enjoys sharing the love of Jesus. Riggin also leads a Bible study at her school. In our conversation we discuss how to be a purposed parent and the importance of building generational faith so we can leave an eternal legacy that honors God and points our children straight to the heart and feet of Jesus. We share personal family stories and how we learned to parent the heart not simply the behavior. You’ll hear us discuss how parenting requires complete surrender and inviting God to renew us daily. We also discuss why women must stop striving to be good moms, so they can become godly moms and how we are responsible to pray for God to claim the hearts of our children, but that starts with our personal walk with Christ. ____________________________ INTERVIEW_______________________________ (Read full interview notes at Apple Podcast transcripts) Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for sending us Your Son, Jesus and allowing us the privilege of choosing You. Thank you that we can enter into Your presence at any time and find You waiting and already steps ahead of us. Thank you for depositing the Holy Spirit inside those who belong to You and enabling us to shake off self and step into being more Christlike moment by moment, day by day. Father, equip us as mothers to raise the children You so lovingly entrusted to us in ways that bring you delight and glory. Help us to remember that we are unable to parent in any way that pleases, but that through You we are equipped. Empower us with the mercy, grace, love, insight, understanding, wisdom, and strength we need. Remind us to rest in Your ever capable arms and seek Your guidance and guard as we parent Your special blessings to us. May we ever long for You and seek You first above all things so that we can brightly shine Your truths and a desire for You for our children. Help us be purposed and consistent in the way we seek and obey You and in the ways we receive Your great provisions to parent. It is all from You and for You. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Raising children is challenging. No one has all the answers because each child is unique as are parenting styles and family dynamics. By connecting with and knowing your children as you maintain purposed growth in Christ, you will be better prepared for any situation you face. That’s why you hear me share about the Set-Apart Collective in this podcast. I work with professionals who care about making Jesus known to their children. Are you a high-achieving woman who loves Jesus, but is so busy with the rush of work and daily life that you feel like you’re being drained like the water in your bathtub? Do you yearn to get closer to Jesus and show Him to your kids so you will create a love that will last into eternity? The desire is there, but your days spiral out of control before you even think about opening your Bible. Do you ever stop to think that you are the first Jesus your child will see? Let me remind you there is hope. There is a way you can be equipped to raise kids who chase Christ over culture. If you want a connected relationship with Christ and your children that leads them to your side and His feet, instead of them seeking validation from peers, I have an 8-step program to move you from frustrated to fulfilled. I will show you how to reflect Jesus in a way that attracts your family to a connected relationship that lasts into eternity. Remember, godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset you carry. If you don’t want peers and culture to be the main influence over your child, if you desire to parent to “prepare” your child for eternity with Christ, not repair your relationship with them, the Set-Apart Collective will arm you with a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You’ll also deepen your identity in Christ so you can mentor the way for your children to do the same. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family and you will have the tools to raise set apart kids as you parent the heart, not simply the behavior. Does this sound like a lifeline to help you be that set-apart mom God has entrusted you to be? Visit terrihitt.com/coaching and click the link for a free, no obligation conversation call with me. This is a strategic call where I will hear your biggest struggle and show you how to turn it into a blessing that will bring you closer to Christ and your children. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. Time is short. Make yours matter for eternity. One last thing to remember - if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will likely sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection with your children and Christ. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #044 –Interview with Alyssa Galios Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Today I am sharing my conversation with Alyssa Galios. This beautiful and busy mother is an author, motivational speaker, social media influencer, and online coach. She is the founder of the #madeforbravemovement and CEO of the Made For Brave Company. Alyssa is known for helping countless people create better lives through faith, family, and fitness. Her life story has been featured on countless media outlets like Yahoo News, Christian Post, Fox News, Huff Post, and Viralized. Alyssa also just introduced “Closer,” a global collective connecting women to valuable resources and a life-changing community to help women deepen faith and bring them closer to God and the person they were created to be. Alyssa and her husband run their business together out of their home office just north of Seattle, where they happily raise their three beautifully brave daughters. I’ll let you listen in as we discuss faith, family, fear, death, and more. I enjoyed our conversation so much and hope you find joy and hope through it. -------INTERVIEW------- I hope you enjoyed getting to know Alyssa and hear her journey of faith and growth in God through Jesus. I invite you to connect with her through social media or on her website at www.alyssagalios.com. I deeply desire to allow God to cultivate a strong community of women through the work He has given me. I pray you will be inspired and equipped to live with an eternal perspective and influenced to raise children with purpose for, and identity in, Jesus. If you enjoy the “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast, you might like to hear that the terrihitt.com website has launched! Please visit and subscribe so that you gain access to all episodes housed in one convenient location, as well as receive access to transcripts, blog posts, and free resources that will be added to regularly. The Live With Eternal Perspective podcast is currently linked to my new website and also plays on Apple Podcast and Spotify. Would you like others to hear weekly encouragement and learn how to live with more eternal perspective? Can you think of a friend or family member who might enjoy encouragement? If so, please share this podcast with them and take time to leave a quick rating and review. Until next week, keep looking Up and finding new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 044 Alyssa Galios Interview Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #044 –Interview with Alyssa Galios Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Today I am sharing my conversation with Alyssa Galios. This beautiful and busy mother is an author, motivational speaker, social media influencer, and online coach. She is the founder of the #madeforbravemovement and CEO of the Made For Brave Company. Alyssa is known for helping countless people create better lives through faith, family, and fitness. Her life story has been featured on countless media outlets like Yahoo News, Christian Post, Fox News, Huff Post, and Viralized. Alyssa also just introduced “Closer,” a global collective connecting women to valuable resources and a life-changing community to help women deepen faith and bring them closer to God and the person they were created to be. Alyssa and her husband run their business together out of their home office just north of Seattle, where they happily raise their three beautifully brave daughters. I’ll let you listen in as we discuss faith, family, fear, death, and more. I enjoyed our conversation so much and hope you find joy and hope through it. -------INTERVIEW------- I hope you enjoyed getting to know Alyssa and hear her journey of faith and growth in God through Jesus. I invite you to connect with her through social media or on her website at www.alyssagalios.com . I deeply desire to allow God to cultivate a strong community of women through the work He has given me. I pray you will be inspired and equipped to live with an eternal perspective and influenced to raise children with purpose for, and identity in, Jesus. If you enjoy the “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast, you might like to hear that the terrihitt.com website has launched! Please visit and subscribe so that you gain access to all episodes housed in one convenient location, as well as receive access to transcripts, blog posts, and free resources that will be added to regularly. The Live With Eternal Perspective podcast is currently linked to my new website and also plays on Apple Podcast and Spotify. Would you like others to hear weekly encouragement and learn how to live with more eternal perspective? Can you think of a friend or family member who might enjoy encouragement? If so, please share this podcast with them and take time to leave a quick rating and review. Until next week, keep looking Up and finding new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. http://www.alyssagalios.com

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast. Episode #012 – Complaint Fosters Rebellion Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed and thrilled to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. What a day I experienced yesterday! It was actually perfect preparation for this podcast. I woke up feeling fine to begin my day. After eating breakfast, which, by the way, I want to eat as soon as I wake up every day, I began to have stomach issues. Unfortunately, since I have a lot of food allergies and intolerances, every couple of weeks I end up with severe stomach cramping that literally makes me feel like I have the flu. Since I have not been outside my home (because we are adhering to the CO-VID19 social distancing order), I knew I most likely was not sick. At about the time my worst cramps were hitting, my husband came home from the grocery store. He’s been going out as little as possible, so when he gets back home, we have quite a few groceries to disinfect and put away. I met him in the kitchen, told him I thought I was going to be sick, and asked him to leave the items on the kitchen floor so I could come clean them as soon as I was able to. About half an hour later, I made myself get to the kitchen to begin the long process of disinfecting every item he brought home. At first my thoughts began to slide to how much work it now was to clean everything just to put it away in the pantry and refrigerator. My stomach was still not feeling well, and even though I wasn’t feeling like I needed to run to the toilet to throw up at any second, I knew that could change again quickly. Yet as soon as the negative thoughts entered my mind, I decided to lift praises of gratitude instead. I began thanking God that my husband was able to go purchase the food and items we needed, and for the money to buy our essentials. I offered gratitude that I had spray disinfectant and that my husband came home with one small container of Clorox wipes that we hadn’t been able to purchase in weeks. As my thoughts began to wander toward wondering how long our cleaning supplies and paper towels would last, I questioned whether I should postpone cleaning the bathrooms in case we would not be able to restock our supplies on the next grocery run. It felt so odd to have to balance how long our supplies would last and decide whether I would have enough of what I needed left to clean the food items on the next grocery run. Again, when those questions arose in my mind, God gently shoved them away and reminded me to carry nothing but praise and trust in my mind, heart, and on my lips. I thanked Him once again for what He had provided and for the way He carried and loved us each day. I finished cleaning and storing all the new purchases and ran back to the bathroom as a new wave of cramps hit. I had been given just enough time to do what I needed to in the kitchen. New praise arose from my heart and lips. Through the remainder of the day, I was offered many opportunities to choose whether to praise God or complain. I thanked God for the reminders that just “happened” to come at this exact time that I was beginning to prepare this podcast. One of the funniest stories for me personally was the fact that with my food issues, it is difficult to eat a wide variety of items. Since I am so limited, it’s a big deal when I get to eat something different. My husband had also brought home a rack of pork ribs to grill for me yesterday. I’m really picky and dislike the fatty ones, so he always selects ones that look extra lean. He usually does such a delicious job when he grills and I was ready for the tasty treat, but when he changed out the tank to the grill it burned extra hot and the meat was ruined. In the middle of a pandemic and stay-home order, you don’t want your husband to go right back to the store for more meat. I praised God for a man who loves me enough to try to get me something special and for the food that I already had at home. Do I tell you these stories to make you think I have it all together and live with a perfect mindset and relationship with my Heavenly Father? Definitely not! I understand I’m so far away from where He wants me to be. But I also understand His grace and recognize His work in my life. I remember how far He has brought me. I acknowledge the Holy Spirit transforming me daily. When I live with such miraculous change and reconstruction of my thoughts and heart, I cannot help but share Him with you to encourage you to press on in your own walk with Jesus. It is so much easier to complain than to offer thanks, just as it takes more effort to smile than to sit with an unhappy expression. Erasing a grumbly or disappointed attitude takes concentrated effort, especially in our culture of entitlement and selfishness. I have to remain mindful and be very careful with my words because I tend to voice my opinions and feelings sometimes as I verbally process big thoughts. After I have done so, I don’t usually give them another thought because it has been cleared away and I am fine. Yet, I do not want to appear to others, especially my husband and family, that I am complaining. Ephesians 4:29 says, “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.” When I was young, I tended to view life through a more negative lens. Instead of automatically searching for the positive side of anything, I was passively raised to immediately think more negatively or pessimistically. It took years to recognize and shift my mindset to begin thinking with a positive, life-affirming attitude. It actually began to occur after I focused on deepening my walk with Jesus. He began shifting and molding my thoughts to be more in sync with His. “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Romans 12:2 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8-9 Since our thoughts and attitude affect our words, what joy do you imagine it brings our loving Heavenly Father to hear us obey Him with our speech? Unfortunately, since the beginning of the creation of man, God has dealt with our complaints. Adam and Eve began the cycle of thoughts involving dissatisfaction when Eve allowed Satan to manipulate her into believing his attacks on God’s character and she began entertaining doubt about God’s love for her and Adam. She believed Satan’s subtle denials about the truth of God’s word, and his lies accusing God of jealousy. Because of these manipulations, Eve switched from listening to God’s instructions to following her own misguided will and thought things would be better if she took what God had forbidden. Adam listened to Eve and did the same, then complained to God that she had given it to him to eat. Complaining in the Greek is muttering or grumbling. It shows an inner rebellion that defies God and challenges His right to rule us. As we move a little farther in the Bible, we pass through Genesis to Exodus and come to the story of Moses, where once again, we see God’s dominion challenged. In Exodus 3:11, after God tells Moses that He has heard the cries of His people, the Israelites in Egypt and is going to deliver them out of the hands of the Egyptians by sending Moses to Pharaoh to bring them out of captivity, Moses questioned, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and that I should bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?” Moses was dissatisfied with what God was calling him to do. There may have been a variety of reasons why. None of them matter to God. Displeasure plus disobedience equals complaint and rebellion. Moses complained because he misunderstood the nature of God. He looked to “self” and missed the fact that God is and would be the Deliverer. God wasn’t relying on Moses to be the strength behind events; He wanted Moses to rely on His mighty power. Moses complained because He didn’t believe He knew enough. Instead of seeking and claiming God’s wisdom, truths, and power, Moses looked to his own inadequate knowledge. Moses complained because he had low confidence. He knew his abilities were limited, but didn’t look beyond himself and claim God’s ultimate power. Moses complained because he had limited speech ability. Moses didn’t understand or trust that God can use anyone, especially the weakest and least, when we are willing to let Him work through us. Moses complained because he was scared. Again, Moses proves that he was looking to self, instead of focusing on God, who can do above and beyond what we have the ability to imagine. God replied to Moses in Exodus 3:12a, “I will certainly be with you.” We must remember that the success of anything God calls us to do is not dependent on our ability. God’s promise and assuring words should have been enough for Moses to stop worrying and questioning the mission God had assigned him, yet Moses found it much easier to focus on his own personal faults or shortcomings and fret, standing in fear and complaint, rather than accept God at His word. Just as we often do. Exodus 3:14 says, “And God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.’ And He said, ‘Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.’” God declared to Moses exactly Who He is: an ever-present, uncreated self-existence, eternal, and unchanging. God is everything Moses would need to rely on and believe in to carry him through what God called Moses to let Him accomplish through simple obedience. God in the triune, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is everything each of us need. Another example of complaint signifying rebellion is the story of Jonah. When Jonah disobeyed God’s instruction to go east to Assyria (Nineveh’s capital city), as God had instructed, and traveled the opposite direction to Tarshish instead, we see major opposition to the authority of God. Jonah held many complaints against the Ninevites, and because of his anger and hatred, could not see he was refusing God just as much or more than they were. When we complain to God with our voice and/or our actions, and disobey His commands to us, whether they are shown to us intimately and directly, or through His Holy word, it is simple rebellion and we sin. Does this mean we can’t share our feelings with God? Definitely not. He already knows our thoughts and needs, but God never desires that we voice complaints simply for the sake of grumbling. He welcomes our questions and thoughts, and wants to teach and grow us, but He doesn’t wish for us to simply complain, expressing unhappiness or displeasure, then go our own way, placing a wedge between Him and us. When we approach God, we want to do so with honesty and trust, knowing He can relieve our frustration, bitterness, unforgiveness, loneliness, depression, or any emotion we have. He knows when we are hurting and never wants us to feel alone. Confide in our Heavenly Father, but trust Him to handle and relieve distress. Placing praise and trust ahead of frivolous complaints is the desire God has for our lives. After surviving a violent storm and being swallowed by a whale, Jonah is vomited out of the belly of the giant fish, and God again requests that Jonah travel to Nineveh, instructing him to preach a message to the people there. Finally obedient with his actions, although his attitude of complaint against God and the people still needed major adjusting, Jonah did travel quickly to relay the word God had given him. The very people Jonah held such hatred and contempt for quickly cast aside their evil behavior and repented to God, making Jonah extremely angry. Throughout the story of Jonah, we see his complaint-filled, rebellious attitude toward the immoral Ninevites and recognize rebellion and rejection of God in both. Yet, the Ninevites immediately changed their ways when face-to-face with God’s approaching judgement, while Jonah remained displeased and bad-tempered, proving that the prophet knew a lot about God, but didn’t really know God. How easy that is to do. Sometimes complaints and rebellion are not spoken, but are proven by the way we live. Our attitude and actions express our negativity and separate us from our Heavenly Father. Philippians 2:14 instructs, “Do all things without grumbling or disputing.” What is the key to adhering to this verse from Philippians? Jesus. When we are His, and allow the Holy Spirit to do a good work in us, we become children of God who shine Him in this world without complaint and living with gratitude and praise. Ephesians 2:1-10 says, “And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— and raised us up with Him and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages He might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Once we recognize and accept that salvation through Jesus is critical to eternal life and living with eternal perspective, how do we grow in and remain close to Him? How do we shift away from grumbling and complaining, to living with freedom and contentment? How do we ensure that our heart carries no inner rebellion that would dispute God’s authority in our life? How do we ensure that we do not become like the Israelites as they wandered through the wilderness? 1 Corinthians 10:9-10 says, “Nor let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed by serpents; nor complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer.” The grumbling in the desert drove the Israelites to perform many acts against the Lord. Through them, we are reminded that we must purpose to keep praise in our hearts and on our lips, despite circumstances. Even in the worst of times, God is faithful. We must chose to lift our eyes to Him and trust that He is present and that His unlimited knowledge, grace, love, and power will rescue and provide for us. When we focus on our present circumstances or trials through a lens of self-reliance, we fall victim to fear, worry, and complaint. If we live with a mindset of trust, faith, and reliance on the provision of an omnipotent Heavenly Father, we experience His power and blessings. John 15:1-11 instructs, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in Me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in Me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be My disciples. As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” We must abide in Him. Once we have purposely sought and accepted the gift Jesus sacrificed to give us, our obligation is to stay connected to Him, to rely on Him, and to reside in His care. We follow His command to seek Him daily, allowing Jesus to fill and transform us. We continue to be sanctified through Him as we dedicate our mind, heart, and soul to Jesus and allow the Holy Spirit to work in us, conforming us to the image of Jesus. Can you remember Jesus grumbling and complaining when He lived among us? Or do you imagine Him drawing nearer to God, sharing His intimate thoughts, seeking His provisions and appreciating His care? When we keep our focus on Him, we allow God to transform us into the image He created us to become. Complaints and rebellion are not welcome in God’s kingdom and deprive us from true peace and joyful fellowship. His ways become ours when we trust and follow Him, allowing Him to remove our grumbling, discontented spirit and replace it with a perspective influenced and nurtured by the One who loves us beyond measure. Thank you so much for listening to the Live With Eternal Perspective podcast. God has impressed so much on my heart to share. Living with an eternal perspective affects absolutely everything in my life. I am thrilled to delve into different areas with you. Since everything affects our eternity, we have a lot to discuss! I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you found value in this podcast, please subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. I also encourage you to leave a review. In order for others to be able to find this podcast, I will need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift Live With Eternal Perspective higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Thank you again for sharing part of your day with me. Until next time, keep looking Upward and finding new ways to live with an Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 012 Complaint Fosters Rebellion Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast. Episode #012 – Complaint Fosters Rebellion Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed and thrilled to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. What a day I experienced yesterday! It was actually perfect preparation for this podcast. I woke up feeling fine to begin my day. After eating breakfast, which, by the way, I want to eat as soon as I wake up every day, I began to have stomach issues. Unfortunately, since I have a lot of food allergies and intolerances, every couple of weeks I end up with severe stomach cramping that literally makes me feel like I have the flu. Since I have not been outside my home (because we are adhering to the CO-VID19 social distancing order), I knew I most likely was not sick. At about the time my worst cramps were hitting, my husband came home from the grocery store. He’s been going out as little as possible, so when he gets back home, we have quite a few groceries to disinfect and put away. I met him in the kitchen, told him I thought I was going to be sick, and asked him to leave the items on the kitchen floor so I could come clean them as soon as I was able to. About half an hour later, I made myself get to the kitchen to begin the long process of disinfecting every item he brought home. At first my thoughts began to slide to how much work it now was to clean everything just to put it away in the pantry and refrigerator. My stomach was still not feeling well, and even though I wasn’t feeling like I needed to run to the toilet to throw up at any second, I knew that could change again quickly. Yet as soon as the negative thoughts entered my mind, I decided to lift praises of gratitude instead. I began thanking God that my husband was able to go purchase the food and items we needed, and for the money to buy our essentials. I offered gratitude that I had spray disinfectant and that my husband came home with one small container of Clorox wipes that we hadn’t been able to purchase in weeks. As my thoughts began to wander toward wondering how long our cleaning supplies and paper towels would last, I questioned whether I should postpone cleaning the bathrooms in case we would not be able to restock our supplies on the next grocery run. It felt so odd to have to balance how long our supplies would last and decide whether I would have enough of what I needed left to clean the food items on the next grocery run. Again, when those questions arose in my mind, God gently shoved them away and reminded me to carry nothing but praise and trust in my mind, heart, and on my lips. I thanked Him once again for what He had provided and for the way He carried and loved us each day. I finished cleaning and storing all the new purchases and ran back to the bathroom as a new wave of cramps hit. I had been given just enough time to do what I needed to in the kitchen. New praise arose from my heart and lips. Through the remainder of the day, I was offered many opportunities to choose whether to praise God or complain. I thanked God for the reminders that just “happened” to come at this exact time that I was beginning to prepare this podcast. One of the funniest stories for me personally was the fact that with my food issues, it is difficult to eat a wide variety of items. Since I am so limited, it’s a big deal when I get to eat something different. My husband had also brought home a rack of pork ribs to grill for me yesterday. I’m really picky and dislike the fatty ones, so he always selects ones that look extra lean. He usually does such a delicious job when he grills and I was ready for the tasty treat, but when he changed out the tank to the grill it burned extra hot and the meat was ruined. In the middle of a pandemic and stay-home order, you don’t want your husband to go right back to the store for more meat. I praised God for a man who loves me enough to try to get me something special and for the food that I already had at home. Do I tell you these stories to make you think I have it all together and live with a perfect mindset and relationship with my Heavenly Father? Definitely not! I understand I’m so far away from where He wants me to be. But I also understand His grace and recognize His work in my life. I remember how far He has brought me. I acknowledge the Holy Spirit transforming me daily. When I live with such miraculous change and reconstruction of my thoughts and heart, I cannot help but share Him with you to encourage you to press on in your own walk with Jesus. It is so much easier to complain than to offer thanks, just as it takes more effort to smile than to sit with an unhappy expression. Erasing a grumbly or disappointed attitude takes concentrated effort, especially in our culture of entitlement and selfishness. I have to remain mindful and be very careful with my words because I tend to voice my opinions and feelings sometimes as I verbally process big thoughts. After I have done so, I don’t usually give them another thought because it has been cleared away and I am fine. Yet, I do not want to appear to others, especially my husband and family, that I am complaining. Ephesians 4:29 says, “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.” When I was young, I tended to view life through a more negative lens. Instead of automatically searching for the positive side of anything, I was passively raised to immediately think more negatively or pessimistically. It took years to recognize and shift my mindset to begin thinking with a positive, life-affirming attitude. It actually began to occur after I focused on deepening my walk with Jesus. He began shifting and molding my thoughts to be more in sync with His. “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Romans 12:2 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8-9 Since our thoughts and attitude affect our words, what joy do you imagine it brings our loving Heavenly Father to hear us obey Him with our speech? Unfortunately, since the beginning of the creation of man, God has dealt with our complaints. Adam and Eve began the cycle of thoughts involving dissatisfaction when Eve allowed Satan to manipulate her into believing his attacks on God’s character and she began entertaining doubt about God’s love for her and Adam. She believed Satan’s subtle denials about the truth of God’s word, and his lies accusing God of jealousy. Because of these manipulations, Eve switched from listening to God’s instructions to following her own misguided will and thought things would be better if she took what God had forbidden. Adam listened to Eve and did the same, then complained to God that she had given it to him to eat. Complaining in the Greek is muttering or grumbling. It shows an inner rebellion that defies God and challenges His right to rule us. As we move a little farther in the Bible, we pass through Genesis to Exodus and come to the story of Moses, where once again, we see God’s dominion challenged. In Exodus 3:11, after God tells Moses that He has heard the cries of His people, the Israelites in Egypt and is going to deliver them out of the hands of the Egyptians by sending Moses to Pharaoh to bring them out of captivity, Moses questioned, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and that I should bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?” Moses was dissatisfied with what God was calling him to do. There may have been a variety of reasons why. None of them matter to God. Displeasure plus disobedience equals complaint and rebellion. Moses complained because he misunderstood the nature of God. He looked to “self” and missed the fact that God is and would be the Deliverer. God wasn’t relying on Moses to be the strength behind events; He wanted Moses to rely on His mighty power. Moses complained because He didn’t believe He knew enough. Instead of seeking and claiming God’s wisdom, truths, and power, Moses looked to his own inadequate knowledge. Moses complained because he had low confidence. He knew his abilities were limited, but didn’t look beyond himself and claim God’s ultimate power. Moses complained because he had limited speech ability. Moses didn’t understand or trust that God can use anyone, especially the weakest and least, when we are willing to let Him work through us. Moses complained because he was scared. Again, Moses proves that he was looking to self, instead of focusing on God, who can do above and beyond what we have the ability to imagine. God replied to Moses in Exodus 3:12a, “I will certainly be with you.” We must remember that the success of anything God calls us to do is not dependent on our ability. God’s promise and assuring words should have been enough for Moses to stop worrying and questioning the mission God had assigned him, yet Moses found it much easier to focus on his own personal faults or shortcomings and fret, standing in fear and complaint, rather than accept God at His word. Just as we often do. Exodus 3:14 says, “And God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.’ And He said, ‘Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.’” God declared to Moses exactly Who He is: an ever-present, uncreated self-existence, eternal, and unchanging. God is everything Moses would need to rely on and believe in to carry him through what God called Moses to let Him accomplish through simple obedience. God in the triune, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is everything each of us need. Another example of complaint signifying rebellion is the story of Jonah. When Jonah disobeyed God’s instruction to go east to Assyria (Nineveh’s capital city), as God had instructed, and traveled the opposite direction to Tarshish instead, we see major opposition to the authority of God. Jonah held many complaints against the Ninevites, and because of his anger and hatred, could not see he was refusing God just as much or more than they were. When we complain to God with our voice and/or our actions, and disobey His commands to us, whether they are shown to us intimately and directly, or through His Holy word, it is simple rebellion and we sin. Does this mean we can’t share our feelings with God? Definitely not. He already knows our thoughts and needs, but God never desires that we voice complaints simply for the sake of grumbling. He welcomes our questions and thoughts, and wants to teach and grow us, but He doesn’t wish for us to simply complain, expressing unhappiness or displeasure, then go our own way, placing a wedge between Him and us. When we approach God, we want to do so with honesty and trust, knowing He can relieve our frustration, bitterness, unforgiveness, loneliness, depression, or any emotion we have. He knows when we are hurting and never wants us to feel alone. Confide in our Heavenly Father, but trust Him to handle and relieve distress. Placing praise and trust ahead of frivolous complaints is the desire God has for our lives. After surviving a violent storm and being swallowed by a whale, Jonah is vomited out of the belly of the giant fish, and God again requests that Jonah travel to Nineveh, instructing him to preach a message to the people there. Finally obedient with his actions, although his attitude of complaint against God and the people still needed major adjusting, Jonah did travel quickly to relay the word God had given him. The very people Jonah held such hatred and contempt for quickly cast aside their evil behavior and repented to God, making Jonah extremely angry. Throughout the story of Jonah, we see his complaint-filled, rebellious attitude toward the immoral Ninevites and recognize rebellion and rejection of God in both. Yet, the Ninevites immediately changed their ways when face-to-face with God’s approaching judgement, while Jonah remained displeased and bad-tempered, proving that the prophet knew a lot about God, but didn’t really know God. How easy that is to do. Sometimes complaints and rebellion are not spoken, but are proven by the way we live. Our attitude and actions express our negativity and separate us from our Heavenly Father. Philippians 2:14 instructs, “Do all things without grumbling or disputing.” What is the key to adhering to this verse from Philippians? Jesus. When we are His, and allow the Holy Spirit to do a good work in us, we become children of God who shine Him in this world without complaint and living with gratitude and praise. Ephesians 2:1-10 says, “And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— and raised us up with Him and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages He might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Once we recognize and accept that salvation through Jesus is critical to eternal life and living with eternal perspective, how do we grow in and remain close to Him? How do we shift away from grumbling and complaining, to living with freedom and contentment? How do we ensure that our heart carries no inner rebellion that would dispute God’s authority in our life? How do we ensure that we do not become like the Israelites as they wandered through the wilderness? 1 Corinthians 10:9-10 says, “Nor let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed by serpents; nor complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer.” The grumbling in the desert drove the Israelites to perform many acts against the Lord. Through them, we are reminded that we must purpose to keep praise in our hearts and on our lips, despite circumstances. Even in the worst of times, God is faithful. We must chose to lift our eyes to Him and trust that He is present and that His unlimited knowledge, grace, love, and power will rescue and provide for us. When we focus on our present circumstances or trials through a lens of self-reliance, we fall victim to fear, worry, and complaint. If we live with a mindset of trust, faith, and reliance on the provision of an omnipotent Heavenly Father, we experience His power and blessings. John 15:1-11 instructs, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in Me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in Me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be My disciples. As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” We must abide in Him. Once we have purposely sought and accepted the gift Jesus sacrificed to give us, our obligation is to stay connected to Him, to rely on Him, and to reside in His care. We follow His command to seek Him daily, allowing Jesus to fill and transform us. We continue to be sanctified through Him as we dedicate our mind, heart, and soul to Jesus and allow the Holy Spirit to work in us, conforming us to the image of Jesus. Can you remember Jesus grumbling and complaining when He lived among us? Or do you imagine Him drawing nearer to God, sharing His intimate thoughts, seeking His provisions and appreciating His care? When we keep our focus on Him, we allow God to transform us into the image He created us to become. Complaints and rebellion are not welcome in God’s kingdom and deprive us from true peace and joyful fellowship. His ways become ours when we trust and follow Him, allowing Him to remove our grumbling, discontented spirit and replace it with a perspective influenced and nurtured by the One who loves us beyond measure. Thank you so much for listening to the Live With Eternal Perspective podcast. God has impressed so much on my heart to share. Living with an eternal perspective affects absolutely everything in my life. I am thrilled to delve into different areas with you. Since everything affects our eternity, we have a lot to discuss! I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you found value in this podcast, please subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. I also encourage you to leave a review. In order for others to be able to find this podcast, I will need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift Live With Eternal Perspective higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Thank you again for sharing part of your day with me. Until next time, keep looking Upward and finding new ways to live with an Eternal Perspective.

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #095 – Through the Shadow of Death – Interview with Johanna Cannelongo Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Today I am honored to begin a new series of interviews in recognition of National Adoption Month. What a blessing it is to be able to converse with several people regarding the topic of adoption. As you probably already know, our family has added to our family through adoption twice and we are deeply blessed, of course, through bringing our daughters home, but also through the relationships we’ve built in the adoption community. National Adoption Month is an initiative that seeks to increase national awareness of adoption issues and bring attention to the need for adoptive families for teens in the U.S. foster care system. I also believe the movement includes awareness for international adoption. Although some adoptions abroad are closed due to Covid at this time, I pray the time will quickly come that all children, no matter where they live, will be able to live in loving, nurturing, permanent families. God doesn’t care where a child is adopted from. Whether domestic or international, children need homes. They are meant to live in attentive, loving homes. It breaks my heart that any child would be neglected, abused, or forgotten. Imagine how it makes God feel. Every person should know that someone cares about them and their well-being because they are deeply cherished. Our own journey with adoption began in China simply because that is where we knew God told us we had a daughter waiting. Over the ten years that followed our first adoption, we advocated and prayed for many children, both domestic and international. We worked with organizations, began an adoption ministry at church, and held seminars and conferences. I have lost count of the number of children I have prayed for as I viewed their photos and also shared them with others to pray and advocate for, as well. We also took courses to be approved to adopt domestically, but that was not God’s plan for us. Instead, He sent us back to China for our youngest child, and I will never forget the day I first saw her adorable face. It was the moment I fell in love with her. Today, I am beginning a series of interviews by introducing you to Johanna Cannelongo, a 4-time repeat adopter from China. Johanna is a wife and homeschooling mama of eight children, ages 5-21. She says she lives with her heart anchored in eternity, but her feet planted in Maryland on a little farmette with her amazing and funny husband of 23 years, Brian. Johanna’s passion is to raise children who love Jesus and to advocate for the most vulnerable. Now you will hear Johanna share the hope of Jesus through her story of His faithfulness in her life during tragedy and triumph. ----------------------------------------------------INTERVIEW------------------------------------------------ The goodness and faithfulness of God and His intimate provisions to each of us is clearly evident in the story Johanna shared with us. Johanna says that Jesus is her best friend, her light, and her song of living hope that saves her every day. His intimacy is free to each of us and He awaits our release of self so that He can freely minister and guide in the personal and loving ways He desires. Even through the valley of the shadow of death, Jesus can cause us to fear no evil, for He is right with us, carrying us each step of the journey, when we allow Him to. You can learn more about Johanna through her foundation, Live Gia Grow Forever on Facebook or Instagram. You can reach Johanna at johanna@wildflowerhope.com. Father God, we call upon Your name. You are the Great I Am, the Most High, our Creator and Sustainer, our Provider and Great Comforter. We need you so much more than we even realize. Father, thank you for the ways You carry us. You do not walk beside us. You intentionally and intimately desire to carry each load and carry us through the pain and trials. Heavenly Father, You are good, yet this world is not. Help us to crave You over culture and turn to You with every pain and heartache, every question and stumbling block. May we please You and fulfill the purpose You have set for us. May we give You honor and praise through easy and hard. When our deepest fears come true, may we not turn from You, but to You as we trust and rest in Your arms. Soothe our pain and show us Your tender mercies. In the precious name of Jesus we humbly pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this podcast. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 095 - Through the Shadow of Death - Interview with Johanna Cannelongo Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #095 – Through the Shadow of Death – Interview with Johanna Cannelongo Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Today I am honored to begin a new series of interviews in recognition of National Adoption Month. What a blessing it is to be able to converse with several people regarding the topic of adoption. As you probably already know, our family has added to our family through adoption twice and we are deeply blessed, of course, through bringing our daughters home, but also through the relationships we’ve built in the adoption community. National Adoption Month is an initiative that seeks to increase national awareness of adoption issues and bring attention to the need for adoptive families for teens in the U.S. foster care system. I also believe the movement includes awareness for international adoption. Although some adoptions abroad are closed due to Covid at this time, I pray the time will quickly come that all children, no matter where they live, will be able to live in loving, nurturing, permanent families. God doesn’t care where a child is adopted from. Whether domestic or international, children need homes. They are meant to live in attentive, loving homes. It breaks my heart that any child would be neglected, abused, or forgotten. Imagine how it makes God feel. Every person should know that someone cares about them and their well-being because they are deeply cherished. Our own journey with adoption began in China simply because that is where we knew God told us we had a daughter waiting. Over the ten years that followed our first adoption, we advocated and prayed for many children, both domestic and international. We worked with organizations, began an adoption ministry at church, and held seminars and conferences. I have lost count of the number of children I have prayed for as I viewed their photos and also shared them with others to pray and advocate for, as well. We also took courses to be approved to adopt domestically, but that was not God’s plan for us. Instead, He sent us back to China for our youngest child, and I will never forget the day I first saw her adorable face. It was the moment I fell in love with her. Today, I am beginning a series of interviews by introducing you to Johanna Cannelongo, a 4-time repeat adopter from China. Johanna is a wife and homeschooling mama of eight children, ages 5-21. She says she lives with her heart anchored in eternity, but her feet planted in Maryland on a little farmette with her amazing and funny husband of 23 years, Brian. Johanna’s passion is to raise children who love Jesus and to advocate for the most vulnerable. Now you will hear Johanna share the hope of Jesus through her story of His faithfulness in her life during tragedy and triumph. ----------------------------------------------------INTERVIEW------------------------------------------------ The goodness and faithfulness of God and His intimate provisions to each of us is clearly evident in the story Johanna shared with us. Johanna says that Jesus is her best friend, her light, and her song of living hope that saves her every day. His intimacy is free to each of us and He awaits our release of self so that He can freely minister and guide in the personal and loving ways He desires. Even through the valley of the shadow of death, Jesus can cause us to fear no evil, for He is right with us, carrying us each step of the journey, when we allow Him to. You can learn more about Johanna through her foundation, Live Gia Grow Forever on Facebook or Instagram. You can reach Johanna at johanna@wildflowerhope.com . Father God, we call upon Your name. You are the Great I Am, the Most High, our Creator and Sustainer, our Provider and Great Comforter. We need you so much more than we even realize. Father, thank you for the ways You carry us. You do not walk beside us. You intentionally and intimately desire to carry each load and carry us through the pain and trials. Heavenly Father, You are good, yet this world is not. Help us to crave You over culture and turn to You with every pain and heartache, every question and stumbling block. May we please You and fulfill the purpose You have set for us. May we give You honor and praise through easy and hard. When our deepest fears come true, may we not turn from You, but to You as we trust and rest in Your arms. Soothe our pain and show us Your tender mercies. In the precious name of Jesus we humbly pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this podcast. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=live%20gia%20grow%20forever%20foundation

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 096 - How Parents Can Guide Children to Live Out Faith in a Secular World Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 096 – How Parents Can Guide Their Children to Live Out Faith in a Secular World Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast deepens your walk with Jesus and your children, equipping you to become a set-apart woman and mother. One afternoon my youngest child came to me as I worked in the office, her smile beaming so brightly. She pushed her palm toward me, and in it, rested a tiny cherry tomato grown in her garden. As I reached for her gift, thoughts swarmed my mind. "I'm not hungry." "I already had several tomatoes today and too many cause stomach problems." "I hope she washed it." As fast as those negativities pressed at me, God covered them with His truth. "How loving of her to think of me." So I returned her joy with a smile of my own and reached for her offering. After popping the fruit in my mouth to taste the sweet juice, I had one reply. "You grow the best cherry tomatoes." How often are we presented with gifts such as this? A moment that seems like an interruption becomes a divine meeting between opportunity and a decision to love. After we hugged and I thanked her for thinking of me, we chatted a bit and she left my side with a spring in her step and delight on her face. She felt like the best gardener in the world. A giving daughter. Thoughtful. She felt seen. Appreciated. How easily I could have ruined the moment. Mothers, how often are you presented with Heaven-sent opportunities? Most likely, many times a day. Maybe you seize each one like a savored treasure. Or maybe you don’t recognize the instant it appears, and see only problems or pressures. Instead, look for moments you can choose to grasp, not allow to flutter to the ground unused. This is one example of how we can guide our children to live their faith. We build a closeness that surpasses the rush of this world and allows a glimpse of Heaven to enter the chaos life can bring. We teach our children to understand the beauty of giving and thinking of others. We don’t stop the natural tendency they carry to please. We mold those characteristics into qualities they will use to serve and honor God and others. We don’t rob their joy or crush their tender spirit. Today we’re going to share more ways mothers can be purposed in helping our children build a strong foundation that equips them to live out a lasting faith in this secular world. First, we need to identify what our children need to guide and grow them toward faith that lasts for eternity. In order to do that, we need to realize the effects of the secular world your child lives in. Even if you have invested in a private or Christian school, or you homeschool your children, the world and the culture created by it seep into their lives. Extended family, neighbors, strangers in the store, classmates, social media, television shows, movies, games, music, books, language, (the list is long) – all pose the potential to have a positive or negative impact on your child’s faith. Do you know what types of challenges your children are currently facing? Do you understand what they are likely to face in the future? How does that knowledge impact your parenting style? Do worldly values affect your faith and relationship with God? Your relationship with God affects your child’s ability to maintain strong faith in a secular world. The truth is that you must be strengthening your faith in order to build the foundation for your children. You must study and know God’s Word in order to teach Biblical worldview to your children. You must also study God’s Word with your children. They must see that you prioritize the Father. You must make prayer a priority for yourself and your family. You must weave God into daily life. He is real and His presence in your home must be real, too. You must regularly discuss how Biblical truths must be a foundation for worldview. Show your children how to live the truths you believe . You must be the fragrance of Christ in your home. In order to do so, you must inhale Christ moment by moment so you can exhale Him in your words, desires, actions, reactions, habits, and lifestyle. Some of the ways you can set your children up for successfully living faith out in the world for others to see Jesus, are as follows. Today we’re going to address 19 ways. Don’t worry about taking notes. Listen and absorb, then remember to look at terrihitt.com/podcast to see the complete listing in transcript form. 1. Guard the innocence and safety of your children. Use biblical discernment to guide activities and events. For example, in present society, most moms agree that it’s not wise to allow children to attend sleepovers. Although the Bible doesn’t specifically address this topic, it does give advice on being wise parents. 2. Point out life situations that aren’t biblical. Whether it be movies, books, games, attire, actions, or more, let your children know why something wouldn’t be pleasing to God. Don’t use personal likes or dislikes to guide you. Take your opinion back to biblical truths to see what God said on the topic. Teach them to study Scripture so that when a particular topic is not addressed, they will know God’s guidance on the issue because they know already Him through the Word. For example, God values life, as His Word clearly says. Although the Bible doesn’t clearly say, “Do not have an abortion,” the topic is addressed in His character and Scripture. 3. Model listening to praise and worship music. Find songs that carry strong Scriptural truths and sing them at home. Even if your older children don’t enjoy them at first, over time, the words will seep into their spirit. God’s Word never returns void. 4. Dress your children modestly. Begin when they’re young. For example, if you don’t want your daughter to wear bikinis when she becomes a teen, don’t dress her in them as a toddler. 5. Watch what you model in desires, words, and actions. If you don’t want your children to use profanity, drink, smoke, or do drugs, don’t partake in them yourself. Your children always learn more from your actions than your words. 6. Introduce Jesus to your children as soon as you have them. It’s never too early. Even a baby in the womb is able to hear the Bible in utero. The first night we had our ten month old baby home from China I read the book, “The Story of Jesus” to her. It brought calm when nothing else soothed her. With my two youngest children we were able to incorporate Christian music in the home as soon as we had them. We did Bible studies, even when they were newly home and didn’t understand English. I would draw photos or act out stories to bring about understanding. Take the steps God desires to plant the seeds and allow Him to work in their life. 7. Be purposed and consistent in modeling relationship with Christ. As they see you read the Bible, pray, pray with them and for them, and seek Christ in all you do and consider, they will be more apt to pay attention when you show and speak about the Lord daily. You are building that foundation your child will build a house of faith upon. You want your children to pursue relationship with Jesus, not a religion with rules and regulations. 8. Teach your children how to refer to God’s Word and to use biblical worldview when shaping values, actions, desires, reactions, and relationships. 9. Show them how to serve others and Christ in and out of the home. 10. Don’t aspire to raise what the world calls typical children. God calls you and I to raise set-apart children. Nothing about Christ is typical. Jesus went against worldly values and held all to a godly standard. 11. Strive to parent the heart of your children, not the behavior. You want to discipline to disciple, not punish. All you do should be done with a heart to serve the Lord and raise children who know, honor, love, and obey Him with joy. 12. Develop relationship with your children through Christ so they value your opinion over that of peers. When you spend time getting to know your children, not just bark orders at them, you develop a closeness that must be in place in order for them to respect you or God. 13. Enlist prayer partners to pray specific requests and Scriptures for your children. I know my children are following the Lord in part due to those who held my family in prayer over many years. 14. Go to church regularly as a family. But don’t go out of duty or obligation. Make it a time to draw nearer to God and each other. Do it for relationship. Don’t treat church as a religion. 15. Read and study God’s Word together. Pray together and for each other. 16. View yourself not just as a parent, but as a mentor assigned by God to bring your children to Christ. 17. Regularly discuss current world issues together and talk about how Jesus would respond to them. Discern from Scripture what God’s belief is on the topic you are discussing. 18. Make family traditions and activities honoring to Christ. Whether it be Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, or other birthdays or holidays, bring God into the plan. He ordained the day and is waiting to be invited to the events. 19. Combat worldly educational indoctrination with godly education . As this world continues to shift and teach children ungodly deceit such as changing sex, sex before marriage, fluid pronouns, and more, use those opportunities to educate your child with loving, godly truths. Work through questions or situations that arise with the Bible as your guide. God’s Word holds all the answers we need. We just need to make the time to find them. Without reading the Word, we can’t help our children apply it or choose to be faithful to it. If you feel overwhelmed or unsure if you can handle these steps, ask God for His guidance. Pray for Him to show you opportunities. The more you listen to His promptings and step out in obedience, the easier your walk will be. Start with one thing you can do to better honor Christ and keep looking Up as you move forward to guide your children to live out faith in this secular world. Remember, if you’d like guided steps on how to incorporate these areas into your life and parenting, this is exactly what I equip you to do in the Set-Apart Collective. Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for Your great provision and protection on our life. We praise You for entrusting us to watch Your children and guide them to You. Equip us to know the ways to their heart. Help us know You so well that we can’t help but shine You to them and others. May Your light burst forth so brightly that Your presence and love cannot be denied. May our children seek You because they have been taught Your truths. May they recognize deceit in this world. Help us not to ignorantly steer them in the wrong ways. Keep us in Your arms so they will rest at Your feet. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Raising children is challenging. No one has all the answers because each child is unique as are parenting styles and family dynamics. By connecting with and knowing your children as you maintain purposed growth in Christ, you will be better prepared for any situation you face. That’s why you hear me share about the Set-Apart Collective in this podcast. I work with moms of littles from infancy to upper grade school. Are you a high achieving woman who loves Jesus, but is so busy with the rush of work and daily life that you feel like you’re being drained like the water in your bathtub? Do you yearn to get closer to Jesus and show Him to your kids so you will create a love that will last into eternity? The desire is there, but your days spiral out of control before you even think about opening your Bible. Do you ever stop to think that you are the first Jesus your child will see? Let me remind you there is hope. There is a way you can be equipped to raise kids who chase Christ over culture. If you want a connected relationship with Christ and your children that leads them to your side and His feet, instead of them seeking validation from peers, I have an 8-step program to move you from frustrated to fulfilled. I will show you how to reflect Jesus in a way that attracts your family to a connected relationship that lasts into eternity. Remember, godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset you carry. If you don’t want peers and culture to be the main influence over your child, if you desire to parent to “prepare” your child for eternity with Christ, not repair your relationship with them, the Set-Apart Collective will arm you with a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You’ll also deepen your identity in Christ so you can mentor the way for your children to do the same. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family. Does this sound like a lifeline to help you be that set-apart mom God has entrusted you to be? Visit terrihitt.com/coaching and click the link for a free, no obligation conversation call with me. This is a strategic call where I will hear your biggest struggle and show you how to turn it into a blessing that will bring you closer to Christ and your children. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. Time is short. Make yours matter for eternity. One last thing to remember - if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will likely sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection with your children and Christ. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #094 – Interview with Emily Hladik – Understanding American History – Part 2 Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. The feedback for the Part 1 episode with Emily Hladik from last week has been wonderful. I appreciate those who give input and let me know the ways God is speaking to you through the episodes. Today I air Part 2 of my interview with Emily. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, I suggest you do before listening to this one as we pick up right where we left off last week. Emily has so much wisdom and knowledge to share and I don’t want you to miss any of it! As a brief reminder, let me share that my guest for this podcast is Emily Hladik, a wife, follower of Jesus, and a homeschool mother who shares her passion for truth through eLearning to reach the next generation of American patriots. Emily doesn’t care much for shopping and decorating, but is passionate about Jesus, history, politics, and is the founder and curriculum creator of Great American Studies. I appreciate her directness and wise, godly views on history and what we must do to honor and uphold it in society today. In Part 2 of this interview, we dig deeper into American history, politics, religious history in America, the truth about separation of church and state, God’s longsuffering and judgement, and parental rights. So much to cover in such a short interview, but we do it. I could speak to Emily for hours and from the response I’ve received, I think you could listen to her for hours, as well. Listening to Emily reminds us that living with eternal perspective also includes keeping a heart and mind focused on authentic history and remembering what has occurred so that we preserve the freedoms set and allowed by God Himself for His purposes. Nothing we receive or own comes from our own hand. God allows the privileges we carry and the reasons are not for selfish gain, but for the good of His kingdom and purposes to honor Him. That we have enjoyed so much because of the suffering of Jesus and the patriots before us is a heavy burden. We must understand and appreciate our privileges in order to preserve them for the next generation. We are alive and living in this period for such a time as this. -----------------------------------------------INTERVIEW----------------------------------------------------- What a wonderful conversation with Emily! You can learn more about her or Great American Studies at www.greatamericanstudies.com or on Facebook at Great American Studies. https://www.facebook.com/greatamericanstudies/ I will leave the links in the show notes. Emily’s courses are great for home or traditionally educated students, as well as parents who want to refresh their mind on history never taught to them, or learned long ago. I plan to complete her course with my family soon. May we each view history with truth and greater clarity, eyes on Jesus, and a heart for what matters to God. May we view the future in the same way with a godly desire for Jesus that propels us to act as He calls. Father God, Your mercies are everlasting. Your kindness to us immense. You are the Great I Am, yet You look on us with such love. Yet, as a Good Father, You also call us to obedience and You discipline those You love. Father, help us to clearly see Your will for us and not flinch or run from it. Help us to cling to You, drawing nearer consistently, whether times are hard or easy. May we be open vessels for You to pour into, allowing us to be Your hands and feet in a parched world that needs Your living water. God, my heart cries for the ways we let You down, the ways we do not recognize the mercies of Your hand or the gifts You lovingly dispense. Open our eyes and hearts, allow our mindset to shift to Yours. May we be hurt by what hurts You and compelled to act where You call. May we stand for what You stand for, and may we rely on You to prompt and carry us, to strengthen us for the battles ahead. May we kneel to You and not this world. May we crave Christ over culture and lovingly exemplify You in our thoughts, words, actions, and lifestyles. Father, may we adore You and shine You like the sun as we carry You within us each day. Draw others to You through us. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. As always, please feel free to let me know if you have specific questions I may be able to answer or if you need information or encouragement about a specific topic related to the podcast or interviews. You can reach me at info@terrihitt.com. Thank you for listening to this podcast. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 094 - Understanding American History - Interview with Emily Hladik - Part 2 Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #094 – Interview with Emily Hladik – Understanding American History – Part 2 Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. The feedback for the Part 1 episode with Emily Hladik from last week has been wonderful. I appreciate those who give input and let me know the ways God is speaking to you through the episodes. Today I air Part 2 of my interview with Emily. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, I suggest you do before listening to this one as we pick up right where we left off last week. Emily has so much wisdom and knowledge to share and I don’t want you to miss any of it! As a brief reminder, let me share that my guest for this podcast is Emily Hladik, a wife, follower of Jesus, and a homeschool mother who shares her passion for truth through eLearning to reach the next generation of American patriots. Emily doesn’t care much for shopping and decorating, but is passionate about Jesus, history, politics, and is the founder and curriculum creator of Great American Studies. I appreciate her directness and wise, godly views on history and what we must do to honor and uphold it in society today. In Part 2 of this interview, we dig deeper into American history, politics, religious history in America, the truth about separation of church and state, God’s longsuffering and judgement, and parental rights. So much to cover in such a short interview, but we do it. I could speak to Emily for hours and from the response I’ve received, I think you could listen to her for hours, as well. Listening to Emily reminds us that living with eternal perspective also includes keeping a heart and mind focused on authentic history and remembering what has occurred so that we preserve the freedoms set and allowed by God Himself for His purposes. Nothing we receive or own comes from our own hand. God allows the privileges we carry and the reasons are not for selfish gain, but for the good of His kingdom and purposes to honor Him. That we have enjoyed so much because of the suffering of Jesus and the patriots before us is a heavy burden. We must understand and appreciate our privileges in order to preserve them for the next generation. We are alive and living in this period for such a time as this. -----------------------------------------------INTERVIEW----------------------------------------------------- What a wonderful conversation with Emily! You can learn more about her or Great American Studies at www.greatamericanstudies.com or on Facebook at Great American Studies. https://www.facebook.com/greatamericanstudies/ I will leave the links in the show notes. Emily’s courses are great for home or traditionally educated students, as well as parents who want to refresh their mind on history never taught to them, or learned long ago. I plan to complete her course with my family soon. May we each view history with truth and greater clarity, eyes on Jesus, and a heart for what matters to God. May we view the future in the same way with a godly desire for Jesus that propels us to act as He calls. Father God, Your mercies are everlasting. Your kindness to us immense. You are the Great I Am, yet You look on us with such love. Yet, as a Good Father, You also call us to obedience and You discipline those You love. Father, help us to clearly see Your will for us and not flinch or run from it. Help us to cling to You, drawing nearer consistently, whether times are hard or easy. May we be open vessels for You to pour into, allowing us to be Your hands and feet in a parched world that needs Your living water. God, my heart cries for the ways we let You down, the ways we do not recognize the mercies of Your hand or the gifts You lovingly dispense. Open our eyes and hearts, allow our mindset to shift to Yours. May we be hurt by what hurts You and compelled to act where You call. May we stand for what You stand for, and may we rely on You to prompt and carry us, to strengthen us for the battles ahead. May we kneel to You and not this world. May we crave Christ over culture and lovingly exemplify You in our thoughts, words, actions, and lifestyles. Father, may we adore You and shine You like the sun as we carry You within us each day. Draw others to You through us. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. As always, please feel free to let me know if you have specific questions I may be able to answer or if you need information or encouragement about a specific topic related to the podcast or interviews. You can reach me at info@terrihitt.com . Thank you for listening to this podcast. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. https://www.greatamericanstudies.com https://www.facebook.com/greatamericanstudies/

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 110 - Ways to Show Your Child Christlike Character Every Day Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 110 – Ways to Show Your Child Christ-Like Character Every Day Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast gives you the awareness and tools you need to STOP being a GOOD mom and BECOME the GODLY mom God entrusts you to be. Then you will be the SET-APART woman PURPOSELY raising children to chase CHRIST over culture. Just a quick reminder as we start, if you enjoy Purposed Parent Connected Child podcast episodes, would you please share this episode or others with a friend or family member? When you graciously take a moment to do that, and leave a rating or review at Apple Podcast, you are ensuring that others will find the podcast. When you do, you’re helping affect generations for Jesus. Now on to this episode about showing your child Christlike character every day. The truth is that what we say matters, but our children will emulate what they see . When we brought our youngest home from China at the age of nine, I was already praying about how we would show her the truth of Christ. I quickly realized that simply the way we reacted to her exhibited the clearest view of Him. Simply put, I would be the first mentor of Jesus she experienced. Because she never had a loving family to care for her when she was hungry, tired, or afraid, because she didn’t have a mother or father to lovingly wrap arms around her and clean a scraped knee when she fell, she was not used to affection. She didn’t want anyone to show her extra attention or make a fuss over her. The day after we received her in China our family went downstairs in the hotel to an extravagant breakfast buffet. An entire room was filled with gourmet dishes and food pieces that probably made Brooklyn feel she lived with a royal family (if she would have known what that was). We each took another piece of bread from the buffet and brought it with us to feed to the koi fish in the pond at the back of the hotel. Afterwards, we took a walk in the sunshine around the building grounds. There were small hilly areas and as she ran, Brooklyn tripped and fell down a small hill. Of course, we went after her immediately. I could see that one arm and knee were grass-stained and her knee was a little bloody. “Are you alright?” I asked her. As I reached to hug her, she turned away and walked across the grass. I had seen what she didn’t want known. She was hurt, inside and out. Tears were filling her eyes. Bravely, my wisp of a toddler size 2 daughter tried to maintain the strength of an adult. It was the power my nine year old had depended on to survive alone for years. Brooklyn didn’t want the touch of strangers when hurt. Even though we seemed kind to her, experience proved she couldn’t rely on others. Any sympathy we showed threatened to open a dam of tears, exposing more emotion that she was equipped to handle. Kindness was painful. This was the first of many times she would reject our loving touch or words. Although she couldn’t yet understand English, she knew our tone was consoling. She felt that our touch was loving, but didn’t have experience with that emotion. Everything was much too tender and raw. Love hurt. It was risky and unknown and through previous experience, she knew it wouldn’t last. Now, after nine years and extra months with us, (longer than she was in the neglectful orphanage), we have a beautiful, redeemed relationship. Redeemed, you might ask? Yes. I stand by that word. Redeemed means to be delivered from sin and its consequences. Though she had a challenging and heartbreaking beginning to her life, our daughter’s situation was redeemed through Christ. Because my husband and I love and follow Jesus, we recognized the Holy Spirit when He told us we had two daughters living in China. He led us to them and we were able to begin a life of lasting love and laughter together. Now both of their lives are redeemed through Christ. Jesus is their personal Lord and Savior and they serve Him well. When you love God and honor Him with your heart, mind, soul, and strength, you will beautifully mentor His characteristics to your children moment by moment, day by day. No matter how long it takes. Because you are committed to Him. To them. That is one example of showing your children Christlike character every day. We cultivate the soil, sow the seeds, and pray as God does the transforming work. I believe that is what Mary did so effortlessly in the first chapter of Luke. Luke 1:26-38 says,“ In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.” “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.” “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.” This story always leaves me in awe . Not that I idolize Mary, but I respect the position she was in. The attitude of her heart and mind were in alignment with God’s destiny for her. I adore the intimate way God knew to approach Mary and the way she responded. I aspire to always be aware and obedient to where God calls me. Mary exhibited beautiful, Christlike behavior. I want my children and husband to say they see me exhibit Christlike character. That means I must be dedicated to God and purposed in my relationship with Him. I must stop grieving the Father by submitting to the Son. That is the foundation of Christlike behavior. Do you also desire to be purposeful in honoring and obeying God so that you show your children Christlike character each day? Moment by moment? You can’t do so unless you are submitted to Christ. It is His power working within that allows you to become more Christlike. It is His power working within that allows you to shine Him to your children and draw them to Him. Each day we grieve the Father in small or large ways. So let’s focus on what characteristics we consider to be Christlike. The first words most of us think of are: Patient, Humble, Honest, Courageous, Loving, Forgiving, Obedient. This is a great list to begin with. Now consider…do your children witness you exhibiting these qualities? In what ways do you exhibit these fruits of the Spirit? Now let’s consider the opposite. What characteristics can you think of that are not Christlike? Angry, Disobedient, Dishonest, Unforgiving, Impatient, Prideful, Arrogant, Hateful, Fearful. Do your children see these qualities in your daily life or interactions? Do your children exhibit these qualities in their life? Take an honest look at the way you act, react, and live your life. Are there times you gossip, show unrighteous anger, refuse to forgive, anger quickly, show pride instead of humility? Each of us do in different ways. Some of us are more susceptible than others, but we are works in progress. So are children. So is your spouse. Humbly ask God to reveal areas you need to submit to Him. Ask Him to show you where you are misleading your children, whether in ignorance or defiance. This is something I do in my own life. I know that when I ask God is going to expose something specific. Remember, you are the living example of Jesus your children see. Your Christian walk will attract or repel them. Little eyes and ears see and hear your mistakes daily. As you follow God and react with the strength of the Holy Spirit inside, you are equipped to exhibit Christ instead of flesh . This is central to teaching your children Christlike character. Being aware of how God requires you to walk is an important step. Micah 6:8 says, “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God .” Using daily moments to grow, learn, and teach by example and His Word are critical in showing Christlike behavior to your children, Not only do you use these ways to grow your children in Jesus, but you also use these methods to grow self. Think of how often you are presented with opportunities for growth daily. A crazy driver, too much change at the store, a co-worker who gets on your nerves, a misunderstanding with a family member or friend. Your relationship with your spouse. The loss of a job, illness, or the death of a loved one. Each of these are opportunities to allow the Holy Spirit within to do a good work through the ways He comforts and carries, stretches and grows you. Your children also present a variety of ways to teach them godly characteristics. Telling the truth rather than a lie, getting along with friends at school, taking up for someone who is being bullied, listening to a teacher, keeping a bedroom clean, respecting parents,..again their list is endless. Consider these moments opportunities , not hindrances. You are an imperfect human raising imperfect humans. Your children are being shaped into the image of Christ. That is hard work! You cannot complete that work alone, just as you cannot complete the work in yourself alone. How blessed you are when faced with opportunities to direct your children to Jesus . Your attitude and actions, your reactions and joy in the Lord will lead them to His feet if you use irritations and mistakes for Him. This leads me to an important point. Don’t neglect addressing ungodly behaviors . King David is a great example of this. His negligence to use godly instruction with his children created terrible and deadly problems down the road. Do not let sin take root. When your child exhibits characteristics or behaviors that need guidance, take responsibility to mentor godly behavior. Any behavior that is not Christlike is a sin . Don’t condone or dismiss ungodly words or ways. Sometimes parents think a sin is small or they don’t have time to take care of a problem when it presents itself. Use the moments when they come. Plant the godly seeds that will bring a Christlike harvest if you continue to tend the soil and weed the garden. Likewise, when you see Christlike character exhibited in your children, compliment their behavior. Children learn by example and appreciate praise, as well. A genuine compliment goes far when shaping godly behavior. Pray for and with your kids. Let them hear you pray with specifics for them. Tell them you pray for them when they’re not around, as well. When they hear you praying Scripture over them or hear your complimentary words to the Father, or when they hear you requesting Christlike behavior for them, they know you care. They know you pay attention. Follow up with praying for specific Christlike behavior for yourself with them, too. When they ask you for prayer, do it right then with them. When your children know Christlike behavior is important to you because it is important to God, and they see you walking in the ways you preach, they will pay attention. Christlike behavior becomes an objective and priority for them when it is an obvious goal for you. Romans 13:14 says, “Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh .” This verse clearly instructs us to put on the Lord Jesus. Wear Him. Wrap Him around you like a shield. This command in Romans 13:14 instructs our children, but also us as mothers. As women. We must show our children the way to wear Christ. When He resides inside of us, we are renewed through the Holy Spirit. Our clothes, our character are washed new over and over again as we are transformed through wearing Christ. The world says to raise self-reliant, kind, ambitious kids. God demands that we raise godly kids with Christlike character. Children who submit to Jesus and obey His Word and ways, who love Him, who desire to please Him, serve Him and others, forgive others, and live with discernment, not judgement will exhibit Christlike behavior that continues to be renewed and refined. In order to mentor Jesus and Christlike behavior to your children, remember that you receive opportunities every single day. Don’t overlook them. Don’t waste them. Be an example of Christ and use other examples that present themselves daily. The Christlike character of others and Bible stories are wonderful examples. Life moments always carry messages and meaning. Find ways to weave teaching moments through them without being preachy. Culture continues to change. Society has moved away from following God, but He has not disappeared. Bravely stand for what God calls. As you deepen your relationship with Him through Jesus, you will be more and more equipped to hear and obey His voice. Question what is presented in books, magazines, music, schools, movies, television shows, etc. Be discerning and teach your children how to be discerning and disciplined in purposely listening for God’s voice. Unless you teach them Christlike character in these areas, they will follow the world, not the Word. Instead of looking for ways to punish mistakes your children make, parent the heart, not simply stop behavior. When you discipline, you are providing discipleship. Be intentional. Parent with purpose. God has entrusted His precious children to you. Become the Christlike parent He calls you to be to raise children for Him. As you place God first in your heart and mind, as you allow the Holy Spirit to lead and direct and move with joy and obedience, your children will experience what Christlike behavior looks like and how it responds and reacts day to day. Dear Heavenly Father, how great You are. What a blessing you have bestowed on us to parent Your children. Reach our hearts, dear Father. Help us to desire You and become more Christlike day by day. May we seek the moments in life that allow us to train our children in godly behavior. May we take the opportunities as they come and use them with joy and gladness directed by You. May we place mentoring You first amidst the activities that distract our days. Help us remember that this life is not a dress rehearsal. We are on stage for our children to watch. All we do is seen and evaluated by them. Equip us to be Christlike mentors who are a sweet fragrance that brings them to You and shows them how to build their own house of faith that will last into eternity. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Raising children is challenging. No one has all the answers because each child is unique as are parenting styles and family dynamics. By connecting with and knowing your children as you maintain purposed growth in Christ, you will be better prepared for any situation you face. That’s why you hear me share about the Set-Apart Collective in this podcast. I work with professionals who care about making Jesus known to their children. Are you a high-achieving woman who loves Jesus, but is so busy with the rush of work and daily life that you feel like you’re being drained like the water in your bathtub? Do you yearn to get closer to Jesus and show Him to your kids so you will create a love that will last into eternity? The desire is there, but your days spiral out of control before you even think about opening your Bible. Do you ever stop to think that you are the first Jesus your child will see? Let me remind you there is hope. There is a way you can be equipped to raise kids who chase Christ over culture. If you want a connected relationship with Christ and your children that leads them to your side and His feet, instead of them seeking validation from peers, I have an 8-step program to move you from frustrated to fulfilled. I will show you how to reflect Jesus in a way that attracts your family to a connected relationship that lasts into eternity. Remember, godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset you carry. If you don’t want peers and culture to be the main influence over your child, if you desire to parent to “prepare” your child for eternity with Christ, not repair your relationship with them, the Set-Apart Collective will arm you with a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You’ll also deepen your identity in Christ so you can mentor the way for your children to do the same. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family and you will have the tools to raise set apart kids as you parent the heart, not simply the behavior. Does this sound like a lifeline to help you be that set-apart mom God has entrusted you to be? Visit terrihitt.com/coaching and click the link for a free, no obligation conversation call with me. This is a strategic call where I will hear your biggest struggle and show you how to turn it into a blessing that will bring you closer to Christ and your children. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. Time is short. Make yours matter for eternity. One last thing to remember - if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection with your children and Christ. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #030 – Are You Wearing His Armor? Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. The past week has been full of distractions. It has not been an easy time of focusing on what I planned for. Preparing for our upcoming school year, trying to clean my house before school begins, reading God’s word and praying for discernment on what to reflect on and read for the podcast this week were what I wanted to do, but instead, life has interfered. So, I have been working on medical necessities for my youngest, going to important medical visits, advocating, writing a letter, and speaking to departments at the local children’s hospital to ensure that her unique needs are not forgotten during this Covid season. It has been draining, but I will gladly do as much as I need to if it ensures her needs are met. When our visit to cardiology last week alerted her physician to look at our girl a little more closely, several tests were scheduled and more blood work was ordered to be drawn. God has truly carried our girl through a time of extra tests during a season where both parents cannot go to visits unless exceptions are made, and it is a time that would have thrown her into a two-hour crying spree a few years ago. The difference in her is truly astounding and brings me once again to my knees to watch God work. Her joy, trust, and hopeful attitude has been an inspiration to me as we await these test results and I know that her future is certainly in God’s hands. As I walked through thoughts of what her future holds this week, I was forced to consider realities I don’t usually ponder. I know her medical conditions and I trust that God is in control and will carry and provide for her. When things took a slight turn last week, I was forced to ponder the fact that her future may change faster than I expected. While I do not want that scenario, I can say that all is well with my soul. God has carried me through hard before and He will never stop. He has carried our precious daughter through hard before. He is still with her – and she knows Him now. The hardest season in my life was the death of our oldest daughter. During that heart-shattering time, I buried myself in God’s word and strapped His armor on tight. In fact, it was super-glued to my body. I like to think I still wear it daily, but last week I was reminded to keep it polished and shining for others to see. If you have listened to this podcast for long, you know my thoughts on eternal perspective. I firmly believe that everything I do affects those round me for eternity. I want others to see the way God carries and encourages me. The way He loves me, because He will love you the same, too. But last week was so emotional for me. I had to let myself process emotions and feel the possibilities, but then look firmly back to the Lord and know that none of what we discovered at the cardiology office was a surprise to Him and that He still holds each of us in His firm grasp. I know it is our time to curl up in His lap together and wait for Him to shower blessings. For it is always in the toughest seasons that we grow in Him if we only allow Him to cradle and carry us. That back story must give you a hint of why I chose to read from Ephesians 6:10-19 this week. This is where I drew my deepest strength during my greatest time of heartbreak and where I continue to go to remind myself that I do not need to be strong in myself. When we are weak, make no mistake, the devil finds ways unique to what he has observed works in our life and tries to wiggle in and distract us from seeking God or tries to discourage us. These are the times we must stand strong and know where to turn. We need to remember Who my God is and allow His mighty and powerful armor to cover me as I rest in His arms. Ephesians 6:10-19 says, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints— and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.” Let's take a look at some of the verses in this passage. Now we know that when we are in a battle, a spiritual battle, we definitely need to have spiritual weapons. God has given us absolutely everything that we need to remain strong in Him. I'd like to look at some notes written by Dr. David Jeremiah and I think they are beautifully written. I could not say things any better. Bear with me as I turn to this in my Bible. People think of war as something glamorous until they, or someone they know, becomes a casuality. The same is true in the spiritual arena. Spiritual warfare seems to be a popular subject for movies, lectures, books, and preaching. But many believers are casualties of Satan's schemes. Make no mistake. Whether they are aware of it or not, all Christians are engaged in a very real spiritual battle between two opposing kingdoms. Those least in the know are often the first casualties. Thankfully, Paul provides believers with a self-defense course in Ephesians 6, and Jesus equips us with all six dimensions of our spiritual armor. He is our truth, our righteousness, our peace, the object of our faith, the source of our salvation, and the living word of God. When we put on Jesus Christ, we are protected by the only person Satan has never defeated. Using the armor of a Roman soldier as a model, the apostle Paul described how a Christian can stand strong in the midst of this ever-present, but unseen spiritual battle: 1. The belt of truth - verse 6:14. The soldiers belt served as the foundation of his armor, holding his sword and his breastplate. Because Satan is the father of lies, he cannot stand against the truth. Jesus said, "I am the truth.Victory in spiritual warfare starts with truth. 2. The breastplate of righteousness - verse 6:14. The breastplate guarded the heart, the source of the soldier's life. In a similar way, righteousness protects the spiritual life of the Christian. Our righteousness comes not from ourselves, but from Christ. 3. Feet protected by the gospel of peace - verse 6:15. The soldier's heavy, armored sandals gave him traction and security in the heat of the battle. So our peace with God through Jesus Christ gives us security. in the face of Satan's accusations. 4. The shield of faith - verse 6:16. The soldier's leather-covered shield could be soaked in water to extinguish the flaming arrows of the enemy. Faith in God's promises deflects and extinguishes the lies of Satan. 5. The helmet of salvation - verse 6:17. The aromored helmet protected the soldier's brain. Since the primary battlefield in spiritual warfare is the Christian's mind, assurance of salvation defeats the doubts Satan uses to attack us. 6. The sword of the Spirit, the word of God - verse 6:17. Paul noted ony one offensive weapon, the soldier's sword. For the Christian, the sword is the Word of God. Thankfully, our spiritual armor is to be used in a war that has already been won. It is said of Napoleon Bonaparte that as he attempted to conquer all the kingdoms of the known world, he spread out a map on a table, pointed to a specific place, and said to his lieutenants, " Sirs, if it weren't for that red spot, I could conquer the world." The spot to which he pointed was the British Isles, the very nation that met Napoleon at Waterloo in Belgium and defeated him in league with a group of nations. There is no doubt that when Satan talks with his minions about conquering the world, he says the same thing about the red hilltop of Calvary where Christ's blood was spilled. "If it were not for that red spot, I could rule the world." But that red spot is what makes all the differnece in our spiritual battle. We do not have to live in fear of the devil. We need enter only the spiritual battle to which we have been called, aware of its reality and its subtlety, and armed with the truth that the ultimate vistory against Satan has already been achieved, Therefore, right now at this moment we are "more than conquerors through Him who loved us." Personal experience in my life has seen how true that what Dr. David Jeremiah just wrote about in these verses has proven Ephesians to be so true. How about you? Have you put on the armor of God and seen the difference that it makes in your life? Have you read those words and been so inspired by what God has done, how he has carried you and protected you? I'd like to read some more notes that Dr. David Jeremiah has written. I simply cannot write these any better and they are so powerful and so promising and so true. I want you to be inspired. Verses 6:10-12 Christians live in a spiritual war zone where the enemy - Satan - uses many tactics in his attempts to defeat them. Those tactics are evidenced by some of the descriptions of Satan in scripture: he is called the deceiver, a murderer, the tempter, a liar, the accuser of the brethren, and the wicked one. Satan's war against God's people follows an organized strategy. Principalities refers to his head officers; wiles refers to clever plans, crafty deceptions, and cunning methods. Like a military general, Satan plans his attacks and directs his demonic forces. Paul mentions six pieces of armor, of which five are defensive. Paul's list mentions nothing for a Christian's back because God expects no deserters in His army. When Christians put on the armor of God they are putting on Christ Himslef. He is the one who fights Satan on their behalf. How glorious it is for us. when we realize that fact. We don't have to fight Satan. God does the battles. More notes here from 6:11-12 say: Every time Paul mentions another class of spiritual beings, he reaffirms that we wrestle against them. The word against appears six times in these two verses. Think of a Christian rowing a boat against the current, trying to make spiritual progress in one direction while Satan turns the current of the world in the opposite direction. You guys know what that's talking about. People, flesh and blood, may persecute, betray, or hurt God's children, but Christians must never forget that the real battle is against Satan, he is the one who brings evil into their lives and tempts them to sin. Believers who view other people as the enemy will not be able to vanquish the true foe. Let's see some more notes here. How about 6:13. Christians need all the armor God has provided to defend against Satan's attacks. They must not choose one piece of armor over another to suit their preferences; they must be proficient in using every piece. Amen to that. 6:14-17, the notes read: Spiritual battles must be fought with spiritual weapons. God's people do not fight with arguments or violence but with truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the word of God. God promises that such weapons will defeat the enemy. The only weapon for offense in the Christian's armor is the word of God. Two Greek words are commonly translated word in English: "logos," which describes the Bible as a whole, and "rhema," the term here, which refers to a particular "saying of God" that has special application for a given situation. The Bible as a whole is an armory from which to select swords for specific battles. Jesus illustrated the use of the "rhema of God" in His victory over Satan in the wilderness. Verse 6:18 reads: A study of Old Testament wars reveals that when the armies of Israel fought in their own strength, they always lost. But when they cast themselves upon God's mercy, victory always followed. Supplication means to ask God for whatever one needs. Asking is the rule of the kingdom and the rule of the church. How true are these notes? As you listen, I pray that you can use these notes in so many of the areas of our culture, of our personal lives, of things that we are going through right now as a nation, and as individuals. Also, at the very end, we will end with this passage that I read in verse 6:19. The notes here say: Paul did not pray for a release from jail, or for an improvement in his situation, or for his own health. He asked his friends to pray for boldness to unveil the mystery of the gospel of Christ. Paul wanted to be an ambassador that he could speak boldly, as he ought to speak. Just as each of us need to do through the way we live each day. Living with an eternal perspective that draws us nearer to God, and draws others nearer to Him at the same time. We don't want the armor that we wear to reflect us. We want it to reflect Christ. We want the words we speak, the actions we do, the thoughts we make, all of those things to have one commonality, and that is, living with an eternal perspective. That we recognize that all we do matters, for us, for others, and for Christ. Lord, help us to live with an eternal perspective that draws others to You and makes You boldly known. Help us to keep our armor on at all times, diligently waiting for You to fight our battles. God, we just thank you so much for all You are and do in our lives. Help us to be bold and to show You clearly in all ways. Did you enjoy this episode? Would you like others to hear weekly encouragement and learn how to live with more eternal perspective? Right now, because this podcast is new, listeners cannot find it unless they specifically know the name to search for. You can help by leaving a quick review and rating for the show and by sharing about the podcast on social media or word of mouth. Can you think of a friend or family member who might enjoy encouragement? If so, please share this podcast with them. Until next week, keep looking Up and finding new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 030 Are You Wearing His Armor Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #030 – Are You Wearing His Armor? Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. The past week has been full of distractions. It has not been an easy time of focusing on what I planned for. Preparing for our upcoming school year, trying to clean my house before school begins, reading God’s word and praying for discernment on what to reflect on and read for the podcast this week were what I wanted to do, but instead, life has interfered. So, I have been working on medical necessities for my youngest, going to important medical visits, advocating, writing a letter, and speaking to departments at the local children’s hospital to ensure that her unique needs are not forgotten during this Covid season. It has been draining, but I will gladly do as much as I need to if it ensures her needs are met. When our visit to cardiology last week alerted her physician to look at our girl a little more closely, several tests were scheduled and more blood work was ordered to be drawn. God has truly carried our girl through a time of extra tests during a season where both parents cannot go to visits unless exceptions are made, and it is a time that would have thrown her into a two-hour crying spree a few years ago. The difference in her is truly astounding and brings me once again to my knees to watch God work. Her joy, trust, and hopeful attitude has been an inspiration to me as we await these test results and I know that her future is certainly in God’s hands. As I walked through thoughts of what her future holds this week, I was forced to consider realities I don’t usually ponder. I know her medical conditions and I trust that God is in control and will carry and provide for her. When things took a slight turn last week, I was forced to ponder the fact that her future may change faster than I expected. While I do not want that scenario, I can say that all is well with my soul. God has carried me through hard before and He will never stop. He has carried our precious daughter through hard before. He is still with her – and she knows Him now. The hardest season in my life was the death of our oldest daughter. During that heart-shattering time, I buried myself in God’s word and strapped His armor on tight. In fact, it was super-glued to my body. I like to think I still wear it daily, but last week I was reminded to keep it polished and shining for others to see. If you have listened to this podcast for long, you know my thoughts on eternal perspective. I firmly believe that everything I do affects those round me for eternity. I want others to see the way God carries and encourages me. The way He loves me, because He will love you the same, too. But last week was so emotional for me. I had to let myself process emotions and feel the possibilities, but then look firmly back to the Lord and know that none of what we discovered at the cardiology office was a surprise to Him and that He still holds each of us in His firm grasp. I know it is our time to curl up in His lap together and wait for Him to shower blessings. For it is always in the toughest seasons that we grow in Him if we only allow Him to cradle and carry us. That back story must give you a hint of why I chose to read from Ephesians 6:10-19 this week. This is where I drew my deepest strength during my greatest time of heartbreak and where I continue to go to remind myself that I do not need to be strong in myself. When we are weak, make no mistake, the devil finds ways unique to what he has observed works in our life and tries to wiggle in and distract us from seeking God or tries to discourage us. These are the times we must stand strong and know where to turn. We need to remember Who my God is and allow His mighty and powerful armor to cover me as I rest in His arms. Ephesians 6:10-19 says, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints— and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.” Let's take a look at some of the verses in this passage. Now we know that when we are in a battle, a spiritual battle, we definitely need to have spiritual weapons. God has given us absolutely everything that we need to remain strong in Him. I'd like to look at some notes written by Dr. David Jeremiah and I think they are beautifully written. I could not say things any better. Bear with me as I turn to this in my Bible. People think of war as something glamorous until they, or someone they know, becomes a casuality. The same is true in the spiritual arena. Spiritual warfare seems to be a popular subject for movies, lectures, books, and preaching. But many believers are casualties of Satan's schemes. Make no mistake. Whether they are aware of it or not, all Christians are engaged in a very real spiritual battle between two opposing kingdoms. Those least in the know are often the first casualties. Thankfully, Paul provides believers with a self-defense course in Ephesians 6, and Jesus equips us with all six dimensions of our spiritual armor. He is our truth, our righteousness, our peace, the object of our faith, the source of our salvation, and the living word of God. When we put on Jesus Christ, we are protected by the only person Satan has never defeated. Using the armor of a Roman soldier as a model, the apostle Paul described how a Christian can stand strong in the midst of this ever-present, but unseen spiritual battle: 1. The belt of truth - verse 6:14. The soldiers belt served as the foundation of his armor, holding his sword and his breastplate. Because Satan is the father of lies, he cannot stand against the truth. Jesus said, "I am the truth.Victory in spiritual warfare starts with truth. 2. The breastplate of righteousness - verse 6:14. The breastplate guarded the heart, the source of the soldier's life. In a similar way, righteousness protects the spiritual life of the Christian. Our righteousness comes not from ourselves, but from Christ. 3. Feet protected by the gospel of peace - verse 6:15. The soldier's heavy, armored sandals gave him traction and security in the heat of the battle. So our peace with God through Jesus Christ gives us security. in the face of Satan's accusations. 4. The shield of faith - verse 6:16. The soldier's leather-covered shield could be soaked in water to extinguish the flaming arrows of the enemy. Faith in God's promises deflects and extinguishes the lies of Satan. 5. The helmet of salvation - verse 6:17. The aromored helmet protected the soldier's brain. Since the primary battlefield in spiritual warfare is the Christian's mind, assurance of salvation defeats the doubts Satan uses to attack us. 6. The sword of the Spirit, the word of God - verse 6:17. Paul noted ony one offensive weapon, the soldier's sword. For the Christian, the sword is the Word of God. Thankfully, our spiritual armor is to be used in a war that has already been won. It is said of Napoleon Bonaparte that as he attempted to conquer all the kingdoms of the known world, he spread out a map on a table, pointed to a specific place, and said to his lieutenants, " Sirs, if it weren't for that red spot, I could conquer the world." The spot to which he pointed was the British Isles, the very nation that met Napoleon at Waterloo in Belgium and defeated him in league with a group of nations. There is no doubt that when Satan talks with his minions about conquering the world, he says the same thing about the red hilltop of Calvary where Christ's blood was spilled. "If it were not for that red spot, I could rule the world." But that red spot is what makes all the differnece in our spiritual battle. We do not have to live in fear of the devil. We need enter only the spiritual battle to which we have been called, aware of its reality and its subtlety, and armed with the truth that the ultimate vistory against Satan has already been achieved, Therefore, right now at this moment we are "more than conquerors through Him who loved us." Personal experience in my life has seen how true that what Dr. David Jeremiah just wrote about in these verses has proven Ephesians to be so true. How about you? Have you put on the armor of God and seen the difference that it makes in your life? Have you read those words and been so inspired by what God has done, how he has carried you and protected you? I'd like to read some more notes that Dr. David Jeremiah has written. I simply cannot write these any better and they are so powerful and so promising and so true. I want you to be inspired. Verses 6:10-12 Christians live in a spiritual war zone where the enemy - Satan - uses many tactics in his attempts to defeat them. Those tactics are evidenced by some of the descriptions of Satan in scripture: he is called the deceiver, a murderer, the tempter, a liar, the accuser of the brethren, and the wicked one. Satan's war against God's people follows an organized strategy. Principalities refers to his head officers; wiles refers to clever plans, crafty deceptions, and cunning methods. Like a military general, Satan plans his attacks and directs his demonic forces. Paul mentions six pieces of armor, of which five are defensive. Paul's list mentions nothing for a Christian's back because God expects no deserters in His army. When Christians put on the armor of God they are putting on Christ Himslef. He is the one who fights Satan on their behalf. How glorious it is for us. when we realize that fact. We don't have to fight Satan. God does the battles. More notes here from 6:11-12 say: Every time Paul mentions another class of spiritual beings, he reaffirms that we wrestle against them. The word against appears six times in these two verses. Think of a Christian rowing a boat against the current, trying to make spiritual progress in one direction while Satan turns the current of the world in the opposite direction. You guys know what that's talking about. People, flesh and blood, may persecute, betray, or hurt God's children, but Christians must never forget that the real battle is against Satan, he is the one who brings evil into their lives and tempts them to sin. Believers who view other people as the enemy will not be able to vanquish the true foe. Let's see some more notes here. How about 6:13. Christians need all the armor God has provided to defend against Satan's attacks. They must not choose one piece of armor over another to suit their preferences; they must be proficient in using every piece. Amen to that. 6:14-17, the notes read: Spiritual battles must be fought with spiritual weapons. God's people do not fight with arguments or violence but with truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the word of God. God promises that such weapons will defeat the enemy. The only weapon for offense in the Christian's armor is the word of God. Two Greek words are commonly translated word in English: "logos," which describes the Bible as a whole, and "rhema," the term here, which refers to a particular "saying of God" that has special application for a given situation. The Bible as a whole is an armory from which to select swords for specific battles. Jesus illustrated the use of the "rhema of God" in His victory over Satan in the wilderness. Verse 6:18 reads: A study of Old Testament wars reveals that when the armies of Israel fought in their own strength, they always lost. But when they cast themselves upon God's mercy, victory always followed. Supplication means to ask God for whatever one needs. Asking is the rule of the kingdom and the rule of the church. How true are these notes? As you listen, I pray that you can use these notes in so many of the areas of our culture, of our personal lives, of things that we are going through right now as a nation, and as individuals. Also, at the very end, we will end with this passage that I read in verse 6:19. The notes here say: Paul did not pray for a release from jail, or for an improvement in his situation, or for his own health. He asked his friends to pray for boldness to unveil the mystery of the gospel of Christ. Paul wanted to be an ambassador that he could speak boldly, as he ought to speak. Just as each of us need to do through the way we live each day. Living with an eternal perspective that draws us nearer to God, and draws others nearer to Him at the same time. We don't want the armor that we wear to reflect us. We want it to reflect Christ. We want the words we speak, the actions we do, the thoughts we make, all of those things to have one commonality, and that is, living with an eternal perspective. That we recognize that all we do matters, for us, for others, and for Christ. Lord, help us to live with an eternal perspective that draws others to You and makes You boldly known. Help us to keep our armor on at all times, diligently waiting for You to fight our battles. God, we just thank you so much for all You are and do in our lives. Help us to be bold and to show You clearly in all ways. Did you enjoy this episode? Would you like others to hear weekly encouragement and learn how to live with more eternal perspective? Right now, because this podcast is new, listeners cannot find it unless they specifically know the name to search for. You can help by leaving a quick review and rating for the show and by sharing about the podcast on social media or word of mouth. Can you think of a friend or family member who might enjoy encouragement? If so, please share this podcast with them. Until next week, keep looking Up and finding new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

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Your Communications Any communications made through Our blog, blog comments, newsletter sign-up, or other related pages, or directly to Our phones or mailing or email addresses, are not held privileged or confidential and are subject to viewing and distribution by third-parties. We own any and all communications displayed on Our website, servers, comments, emails, or other media as allowed by United States law and will not give credit or pay royalties for unsolicited user-generated content such as blog comments or emails. For more information on when and how We store and use Your communications or any data provided by You in those communications, please refer to Our Privacy Policy on this page. We maintain a right to republish any submission in whole or in part as reasonably necessary in the course of Our business. You agree not to submit any content or communications that could be illegal or serve an unlawful purpose, including, but not limited to, communications that are potentially libelous or maliciously false, obscene, abusive, negligent, or otherwise harmful or inappropriate. Disclaimers You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Our website and company for any direct or indirect loss or conduct incurred as a result of Your use of Our website and any related communications, including as a result of any consequences incurred from technological failures such as a payment processor error(s) or system failure(s). While We may reference certain results, outcomes, or situations on this website, You understand and acknowledge that We make no guarantee as to the accuracy of third-party statements contained herein or the likelihood of success for You as a result of these statements or any other statements anywhere on this website. If You have medical, legal, or financial questions, You should consult a medical professional, lawyer, or CPA and/or CFP respectively. We expressly disclaim any and all responsibility for any actions or omissions You choose to make as a result of using this website, related materials, products, courses, or the materials contained herein. While Company may offer discounts or offers at various times, these discounts or offers may be terminated or amended at any time without explanation or warning. Sales, discounts, and offers will not be retroactively applied to past purchases. This website is updated on a regular basis, and, while We try to make accurate statements in a timely and effective manner, We cannot guarantee that all materials and related media contained herein are entirely accurate, complete, or up to date. You expressly acknowledge and understand that any information or knowledge You gain as a result of using this website is used at Your own risk. If You should see any errors or omissions and would like to let Us know, please email Us at: info@terrihitt.com . Advertisements We do not necessarily endorse or recommend any of the goods or services advertised on or through our websites. We do not necessarily endorse or recommend any affiliates using our services. Earnings Disclaimer Company makes no income/financial/consequential claims nor guarantees of any kind that can be generated through Our website, communications, or Your participation in the purchase of any of Our products. Past results presented on the website are not an indication or promise of Your results. Your outcomes are dependent solely on You and Your actions or non-actions. Affiliates This site may use affiliate links/codes to sell certain products or services. We disclaim any and all liability as a result of Your purchase through one of these links/codes. We will use reasonable efforts to notify You when and where We have placed affiliate links/codes in addition to this disclaimer located in these Terms & Conditions. You accept express liability for any and all consequences or benefits of clicking the affiliate links or using any affiliate codes contained on this website or related communications. Termination If at any time Company feels You have violated these Terms and Conditions, Company shall immediately terminate Your use of Our website and any related communications as We deem appropriate. It is within Company’s sole discretion to allow any user’s access of Our website, and We may revoke this access at any time without notice, and, if necessary, block Your IP address from further visits to Our site(s). Entire Agreement The information contained herein constitutes the entire agreement between site users and Our company relating to the use of this website. Severability & No Waiver If any part of these Terms and Conditions of Use is deemed unlawful and/or unenforceable, all other provisions contained herein will remain in full force and effect. Any failure by Company to enforce a provision of these Terms and Conditions of Use shall not constitute a waiver of any other portion or provision of these Terms and Conditions of Use. Headings Headings and titles are provided in these Terms and Conditions of Use for convenience only and will not be construed as part of the legal terms. Venue & Jurisdiction These Terms and Conditions of Use and Our Privacy Policy shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Kansas, including all matters of construction, validity, performance, and enforcement, and without giving effect to the principles of conflict of laws. You agree that any dispute or lawsuit arising out of, or concerning, this Agreement that is not first resolved by arbitration shall be resolved exclusively in a federal or state court of competent jurisdiction located in Johnson County, Kansas. You and Company assume responsibility for their own collection costs and legal fees incurred should enforcement of these conditions become necessary. Mediation Before initiating any arbitration proceedings, Company and You agree to first attempt to resolve any dispute, claim, or controversy arising out of or relating to these Terms and Conditions of Use, including the breach, termination, enforcement, interpretation, or validity thereof, through good faith mediation. Mediation will be conducted in Shawnee, Kansas, with a mutually agreed-upon mediator, or if no agreement is reached, a mediator appointed by the parties. If the matter is not resolved through mediation within [thirty (30)] days of the initial request for mediation (or a longer period if agreed to by the parties), then the dispute shall be decided by arbitration in accordance with the procedural rules of the American Arbitration Association. Company and You agree to be bound by the decision of the arbitrator(s). The arbitration proceeding shall take place in Johnson County, Kansas. The cost and expenses of the arbitrators shall be shared equally by the parties. Each party shall be responsible for its own costs and expenses in presenting the dispute for arbitration. Questions If You require any more information or have any questions about these Terms and Conditions of Use or Our Privacy Policy, please contact Us by email at: info@terrihitt.com PRIVACY POLICY Last Updated on: August 2, 2025 By using this website as a user (hereinafter “You”), You agree to the following Privacy Policy. Please read this Policy carefully before using this website. This website is owned and operated by a Kansas company (hereafter “Our,” “We,” “Us,” or “Company”). Our principal place of business is located in Shawnee, Kansas. Our mailing address is: P.O. Box 16023 Shawnee, KS 66203 For any privacy-related questions, you can reach Us at: info@melaneandco.com . General We at Terri Hitt Co. LLC respect Your privacy. This Privacy Policy is designed to explain how We collect, use, share, and protect the personal information You provide to Us when You access Our website, purchase Our goods or services, or engage with Us on social media, as well as Your own rights to the information We collect. Please read this Privacy Policy carefully. We may change Our Privacy Policy from time to time, and at Our sole discretion. We will alert You to any changes to this Policy by changing the “last updated” date at the top of this Policy and/or via email notification. Any changes become effective immediately upon publication on Our website, and You waive specific notice of any changes to the Policy by continuing to use and access Our site(s). We will not reduce Your rights under this Privacy Policy without Your consent in accordance with applicable law. We encourage You to review this Privacy Policy periodically, when You use Our website for any purpose or engage with Us on social media. You are deemed to have accepted any changes to any revised Privacy Policy by Your continued use of Our website after the revised Privacy Policy is posted. Information Collected We collect a variety of information from You when You visit Our website, make purchases, subscribe to emails, or interact with Us on social media. By accepting this Privacy Policy, You are specifically consenting to Our collection of the data described below, to Our use of the data, to the processing of this data, and to Our sharing of the data with third-party processors as needed for Our legitimate business interests. The information We collect may include: Personal Data: Personal Data is information that can be used to identify You specifically, including Your name, shipping address, email address, telephone number, or demographic information like Your age, gender, or hometown. You consent to giving Us this information by providing it to Us voluntarily on Our website or any mobile application. You provide some of this information when You register with or make purchases from Our website. You may also provide this information by participating in various activities associated with Our site, including, but not limited to, responding to blogs, contacting Us with questions, participating in training(s), etc. Your decision to disclose this data is entirely voluntary. You are under no obligation to provide this information, but Your refusal may prevent You from accessing certain benefits from Our website or from making purchases. Derivative Data: Derivative data is information that Our servers automatically collect about You when You access Our website, such as Your IP address, browser type, the dates and times that You access Our website, and the specific pages You view. If You are using a mobile application, Our servers may collect information about Your device name and type, Your phone number, Your country of origin, and other interactions with Our application. Financial Data: Financial data is data that is related to Your payment methods, such as credit card or bank transfer details. We collect financial data in order to allow You to purchase, order, return, or exchange products or services from Our website and any related mobile apps. We store limited financial data. Most financial data is transferred to Our payment processors, [Shopify, ThriveCart, Stripe, Paypal, and Apple Pay], and You should review these processors’ Privacy Policies to determine how they use, disclose, and protect Your financial data. Social Networking Data: We may access personal information from social networking sites and apps, including [Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest], or other social networking sites or apps not named specifically here, which may include Your name, social network username(s), location, email address, telephone number, age, gender, profile picture(s), and any other public information. If You do not want Us to access this information, please go to the specific social networking site and change Your privacy settings. Mobile Device Data: If You use Our website via a mobile device or app, We may collect information about Your mobile device, including device ID, model and manufacturer, and location information. Other Data: On occasion, You may give Us additional data in order to enter into a contest or giveaway or to participate in a survey. You will be prompted for this information and it will be clear that You are offering this kind of information in exchange for an entry into such a contest or giveaway. Use of Information Your information allows Us to offer You certain products and services, including the use of Our website, to fulfill Our obligations to You, to customize Your interaction with Our company and Our website, and to allow Us to suggest other products and services We think might interest You. We generally store Your data and transmit it to a third-party for processing. However, to the extent We process Your data, We do so to serve Our legitimate business interests (such as providing You with the opportunity to purchase Our goods or services and interact with Our website). Specifically, We may use the information and data described above to: Create and administer Your account; Deliver any products or services purchased by You to You; Correspond with You; Process payments or refunds; Contact You about new offerings that We think You will be interested in; Interact with You via social media; Send You a newsletter or other updates about Our company or website; Deliver targeted advertising; Request feedback from You; Notify You of updates to Our product and service offerings; Resolve disputes and troubleshoot any problems; Administer contests or giveaways; Generate a profile that is personalized to You, so that future interactions with Our website will be more personal; Compile anonymous statistical data for Our own use or for a third-party’s use; Assist law enforcement as necessary; Prevent fraudulent activity on Our website or mobile app; and Analyze trends to improve Our website and offerings. Disclosure of Information We may share Your information with third-parties in certain situations. In particular, We may share Your data with third-party processors as needed to serve Our legitimate business interests, which include administration of Our website, administration of Your account, entering into contracts with You, communicating with You, taking orders for goods or services, delivering Our goods and services, identifying trends, protecting the security of Our company and website, and marketing additional goods and services to You. The legal basis for Our disclosure of Your data is both Your Consent to this Privacy Policy and Our own right to protect and promote Our legitimate business interests. The following are specific reasons why We may share Your information: Third-Party Processing: We may disclose Your information to third-parties who assist Us with various tasks, including payment processing, hosting services, email delivery, mobile messaging delivery, and customer service. For more information, see the “Other Third-Parties” Section, below. By Law: We may share Your data as required by law or to respond to legal process, including a subpoena, or as necessary to protect the rights, property, and safety of others. This includes sharing information with other parties to prevent or address fraud and to avoid credit risks. To Protect Our Company: We may use Your information to protect Our company, including to investigate and remedy any violations of Our rights or policies. We may also disclose Your information as reasonably necessary to acquire and maintain insurance coverage, manage risks, obtain financial or legal advice, or to exercise or defend against legal claims. Advertisers: We may use third-party advertising companies to run and manage Our ads to produce ads that appear when You visit Our Website or mobile app. These companies may use information about Your visit to Our website and other websites that are contained in web cookies (as described below) to offer You personalized advertisements about goods and services that might interest You. We cannot control the activities of such other advertisers or websites. You should consult the respective Privacy Policies of these third-party advertisers for more detailed information on their practices as well as for instructions about how to opt-out of certain practices. Other Third Parties: We may share information with advertisers, Our investors, or other third-parties for the purpose of conducting general business analysis. If We do so, We will make reasonable efforts to inform You if required by law. Sale or Bankruptcy: In the event that Our company is sold, goes out of business, or enters bankruptcy, Your information may be an asset that is transferred to a third-party successor. Such a successor is not bound by Our Privacy Policy and may have its own. You will be notified in the event Our Company is sold, goes out of business, or enters bankruptcy. Interaction with Others: If You interact with others on Our website, such as participating in a group chat or a group online course, other users may have access to some of Your data, including Your name, profile picture, and Your history of interaction with Our website, such as prior comments or posts. Online Postings: When You post online or provide other postings on the website, such as a product review, photograph, video, or other comments, Your posts, submissions, and comments may be viewed by others, and We may distribute Your posts, submissions, and comments outside the website. External Links: Our website may include hyperlinks to other websites not controlled by Us. We suggest You exercise caution when clicking on a hyperlink. Although We use reasonable care in including a hyperlink on Our own web page, We do not regularly monitor the websites of these third-parties, are not responsible for any damage or consequences You suffer by using these hyperlinks. We are not bound by the Privacy Policies of any third-party website that You access by a hyperlink, nor are they bound by Ours. We encourage You to read the Policies of those third-party websites before interacting with them or making purchases. They may collect different information and use different methods than We do. With Your Consent: We may disclose Your personal information for any other purpose with Your consent. Other Purposes: We may disclose Your personal data as necessary to protect Your interests or the vital interests of others or Our company. Tracking Technologies Cookies, Log Files, and Web Beacons: Like many other websites, We make use of log files. These files merely log visitors to the site – usually a standard procedure for hosting companies and a part of hosting services’ analytics. The information inside the log files includes internet protocol (IP) addresses, browser type, Internet Service Provider (ISP), date/time stamp, referring/exit pages, and possibly the number of clicks. This information is used to analyze trends, administer the site, track users’ movement around the site, and gather demographic information. IP addresses and other such information are not linked to any information that is personally identifiable. We also use cookies—small text files sent to Us by Your computer—and web beacons to store certain information. We may use cookies to authenticate Your identity, to determine if You are logged onto Our website, for personalization, for security, for targeted advertising, or for analysis of the performance of Our website and services. For example, cookies allow Us to recommend blog posts to You based on what You have read on Our site in the past. We use cookies that are not specific to Your account but unique enough to allow Us to analyze general trends and use and to customize Your interaction with Our website. Most browsers are set to accept cookies by default. By continuing to use Our website and not disabling cookies on Your browser, You are consenting to Our use of cookies in accordance with the terms of this Policy. In addition, We may use third-party software to post advertisements on Our website or mobile app to oversee marketing or email campaigns, mobile messaging campaigns, or manage other Company initiatives. This third-party software may use cookies or similar tracking technology. We have no control over these third-parties or their use of cookies. For more information on opting out of interest-based ads, visit the Network Advertising Initiative Opt-Out Tool or Digital Advertising Alliance Opt-Out Tool. Website Analytics We may partner with third-party analytic companies, including, but not limited to, Google Analytics. The analytic companies may also use cookies or other tracking technologies to analyze visitors’ use of Our website or mobile app to determine the popularity of the content and better understand online activity. We do not transfer personal information to these third-party vendors. Processing Your Information In most circumstances, We do not process Your information in-house but give it to third-party processors for processing. For example, when PayPal takes Your payment information, they are a third-party payment processor. They process Your payment and remit the funds to Us. We may, from time to time, process Your data internally for legitimate business interests. Our purposes in processing this information are to administer, maintain, and improve Our website and offerings, to enter into contracts with You, to fulfill the terms of those contracts, to keep records of Our transactions and interactions, to be able to provide You with goods and services, to comply with Our legal obligations, to obtain professional advice, and to protect the rights and interests of Our company, Our customers (including You), and any third-parties. We may process the following data: Data associated with Your account, such as Your name, address, email address, telephone number, and payment information; Data about Your usage of Our website, such as Your IP address, geographical information, and how long You accessed Our website and what You viewed; Data related to Your personal profile, such as Your name, address, profile picture, interests and hobbies, or employment details; Data that You provide Us in the course of using Our services; Data that You post on Our website, such as comments or responses to blogs; Data that You submit to Us when You make an inquiry regarding Our website or offerings; Data related to Your transactions with Us, including Your purchase of Our goods or services. This information may include contact details and payment information; Data that You provide to Us when You subscribe to Our emails, mobile or SMS messaging, or newsletters, including Your email address, telephone number, and contact information; Data that You submit to Us via correspondence, such as when You email Us with questions; and Any other data identified in this Policy, for the purpose of complying with Our legal obligations, or to protect the vital interests of You or any other natural person. Data Retention We retain personal data as long as it is needed to conduct Our legitimate business purposes or to comply with Our legal obligations, or until You ask Us to delete Your data. For example, We will retain certain personal information indefinitely for the purposes of maintaining Your account, unless and until You delete Your account. Data that We gather for a specific and particular purpose, such as assisting law enforcement or analyzing trends, will not be kept for longer than is necessary for that particular purpose. Data that is no longer needed by Us for any of the purposes listed above will be permanently deleted. You may request that We delete Your data at any time. However, note that We cannot control the retention policies of third-parties. If You wish to have any third-parties, including those to whom We’ve transmitted Your data, delete that data, You will need to contact those third-parties directly. You may request from Us a list of all third-parties to whom We have transmitted Your data. Minors Our website is intended solely for users who can form legally binding contracts under applicable law and are of legal age of majority in their place of residence. By using the site, You represent and warrant that You can form a legally binding contract under applicable law and are of legal age of majority where You reside, and that You agree to abide by all of the terms and conditions of this Privacy Policy. This website is not designed for use by children under the age of 13, and We do not knowingly solicit personal data from anyone under the age of 13. If You are under the age of 13, do not access or use Our website or related products or services. If You become aware that We have collected data of anyone under the age of 13, please contact Us so that We may delete that data. Your Rights You have certain rights with respect to Your personal data, as outlined within this Privacy Policy. We may charge You a reasonable fee for actions that You ask Us to take with respect to Your data. We also reserve the right to request that You provide Us with evidence of Your identity before We take any action with respect to the exercise of Your data rights. Further, Your rights may be restricted or nullified to the extent they conflict with Our compelling business interests, the public interest, or the law. Update Account Information: You have the right to update or change any information You have provided to Us. To update or delete Your information, please contact Us at: info@terrihitt.com Confirm Personal Data and Its Use: You have the right to request that We confirm what data We hold about You, and for what purposes. You also have the right to confirm whether We process Your data or deliver Your data to third-party processors, and for what purposes. We will supply You with copies of Your personal data, unless doing so would affect the rights and freedoms of others. Change Consent: You have the right to change Your consent to Our use of Your information. In such cases, We may require You to delete Your account with Us, as described above, and You may not have full access to Our website. Request a Copy of Data: You have the right to request a digital copy of the data that We hold about You. Your first request for a copy of Your personal data will be provided free of charge; subsequent requests will incur a reasonable fee. Transfer Your Data: You have the right to request that We gather and transfer Your data to another controller, in a commonly used and machine-readable format, unless doing so would cause Us an undue burden. Delete All Data: You have the right to request that We delete all data that We hold about You, and We must delete such data without undue delay. There are exceptions to this right, such as when keeping Your data is required by law, is necessary to exercise the right of freedom of expression and information, is required for compliance with a legal obligation, or is necessary for the exercise or defense of legal claims. Such a request may result in a termination of Your account with Us and You may have limited or no use of Our website. Marketing Communications: You may opt-out of receiving any third-party marketing communications or having Your personal information used for marketing purposes. Processing: In some circumstances, You may restrict the processing of Your data, such as when You contest the accuracy of Your data or when You have objected to processing, pending the verification of that objection. When processing has been restricted, We will continue to store Your data, but will not pass it on to third-party processors without Your consent, or as necessary to comply with legal obligations or protect Your rights or those of others or Our company. In addition, You may opt-out of any processing of Your data altogether. Doing so may result in the termination of Your account and loss of access to Our website. Newsletters and Email Marketing You may volunteer certain information to Us that is used for email marketing purposes, such as newsletters and other promotional emails. This information includes, but is not limited to, Your name and email. You can unsubscribe from any future communications via email, but We reserve the right to maintain a database of past email subscribers. We reserve the right to use this information as reasonably necessary in Our business and as provided by law. Your information may be shared with reasonably necessary parties for the ordinary course of conducting Our business. Data Breach Procedures We take all reasonable steps to protect Your personal data and keep Your information secure. We use recognized online secure payment systems and implement generally accepted standards of security to protect against personal data loss or misuse. However, no security measure is foolproof, and no method of data transmission can be guaranteed against interception or misuse. We cannot guarantee complete security of any information You transmit to Us. By consenting to this Privacy Policy, You acknowledge that Your personal data may be available, via the internet, around the world. We cannot prevent the use or misuse of Your data by other parties. In the unlikely event customer data has been lost, stolen, or potentially compromised, Our practice is to alert Our customers via email no later than 72 hours after Our Company becomes aware of the event. We will also report such incidents to any required data protection authority. We will work closely with any customers affected to determine next steps such as any end-user notifications, needed patches, and how to avoid any similar event in the future. Notice to California Residents[TLP9] Residents of California may have certain rights regarding Your personal information under the California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). If applicable, Company will provide You with the categories of personally identifiable information that is collected through this website and the categories of third-party entities with whom such personal information may be used at Your request. California law allows You to control who We can and cannot share your personal information with. To obtain any information You are entitled to under California law, please send a request by email to: info@terrihitt.com . There is no charge for requesting this information from Company. International Privacy and GDPR Disclaimer This website’s servers are located within the United States. Thus, if You are visiting this website from outside the United States, You agree that You are sending information to the United States. If you are a member of the EU, Your data is protected by appropriate safeguards, namely the EU-US Privacy Shield and GDPR. We are dedicated to remaining compliant with GDPR regulations when it comes to individuals it applies to. We will not track, sell, or otherwise use Your information unless You have opted-in to do so. You have the right to object to the processing of Your data at any time. Your information will not be shared with any third-parties in the EU. Your personal data is primarily used to provide You with the services and products You opt into. It may also be used to comply with legal obligations We are subject to or to fulfill Our legitimate interests, such as to develop and improve Our services or to detect illegal activities, or through contractual necessity. With Your prior consent, it may also be used to send You custom offers and promotions. You have several rights, including the right to request access to, change, or remove and delete Your personal data, or to change Your marketing preferences. To obtain any information You are entitled to under the GDPR, please send a request by email to: info@terrihitt.com . There is no charge for requesting this information from Company. How To Contact Us For any questions, or to request further information regarding this Privacy Policy or Our use and disclosure of collected personal information or data, please contact Us at: info@terrihitt.com

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #135 – May It Be As You Desire, God Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. In their unique ways, each of my daughters continue to teach me daily about the beauty of a humble heart. Through their words and actions, they allow me to catch a glimpse of God working in them. As I watch them, observing their very different surface personalities, I receive such joy. Although they have unique personalities, both girls love Jesus and make me think about the heart of Mary, mother of Jesus. They always purposely try to please and obey my husband and me. Not in ways that are only because they know they are supposed to, or feel they have to, but because they want to be pleasing to God. I consider it my honor to teach them to yearn for God and to desire to please Him above anyone else. If they do so, the overflow of their love for Him will cover the rest of us. Just as Mary modeled Christ in her words to Gabriel in Luke 1, “May it be as You Desire, God,” is what Christian parents want to hear and see from their children. Yet our reasons for desiring that make all the difference. My children are not to worship me, but Him. When they do, I see the beautiful benefits of their faith-filled and maturing life. It makes me ponder all the qualities God saw in Mary that made Him plan for her to mother the Savior of the World. I believe there were three keys qualities God considered necessary for the task He called Mary to (and of course, God knew she would possess). Christian parents must lead our children to the feet of Jesus in order to see these same qualities living in them. 1. Mary trusted God. 2. Mary’s life praised God. 3. Mary submitted to God. These are the qualities we want to mentor for our children and see them willingly carry in their life. Psalm 27:4 says, “One thing have I asked of the LORD, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to inquire in His temple.” Wouldn’t you love your children and grandchildren to live with a heart attuned to the Lord like this? We hold such great purpose in the life of children! It is our sacred privilege to intentionally instruct our children and grandchildren to: 1. Love God with a humble heart. 2. Fear God with reverence. 3. Respect God’s holy commands and instructions. 4. Serve God with a humble heart. 5. Obey God with respect for His sovereignty. Luke 1:26-38 says, “In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be borne will be called holy—the Son of God. And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. For nothing will be impossible with God.” And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.” Every time I read this passage of verses, my heart is tender for the love and reverence Mary offered God in a moment that must have been incredibly confusing or startling. Can you imagine being in her position? Even though she was just a young girl, she did not worry or wonder at what was going to happen, how it would come to be, or why God had chosen to reveal such a plan as this to her. The words, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord, let it be to me according to your word,” must have sounded preciously obedient to God’s ears. He had chosen Mary because He knew her reaction would be worthy of the privilege and promise He planned. Maybe it is so special to me because I was an unmarried pregnant teen. I know the shame and fear that a young girl faces. It brings me humble joy to read her reaction and imagine myself in her shoes. Luke 1:46-49 says, “And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for He has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for He who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is His name.” Mary was honored in life with the distinctive role of being the mother of Jesus. This honor required enormous sacrifice and suffering. Mary no doubt suffered deep pain along with the privilege of raising Jesus. Mary’s submissive obedience to God allowed her to humbly accept this position with grace and trust without demanding glory or answers. It is not about her. It is about Him. The Bible is full of character studies and stories that we can draw great wisdom and knowledge from and impart to our children. Let’s take a look at another person God found pleasing. 1. Solomon petitioned God. 2. Solomon heard God. 3. Solomon strayed from God. 4. Solomon returned to God. 2 Chronicles 1:1 says, “Solomon the son of David established himself in his kingdom, and the LORD his God was with him and made him exceedingly great.” 2 Chronicles 1:7-12 says, “In that night God appeared to Solomon, and said to him, “Ask what I shall give you.” And Solomon said to God, “You have shown great and steadfast love to David my father, and have made me king in his place. O LORD God, let your word to David my father be now fulfilled, for you have made me king over a people as numerous as the dust of the earth. Give me now wisdom and knowledge to go out and come in before this people, for who can govern this people of yours, which is so great?” God answered Solomon, “Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked for possessions, wealth, honor, or the life of those who hate you, and have not even asked for long life, but have asked for wisdom and knowledge for yourself that you may govern my people over whom I have made you king, wisdom and knowledge are granted to you. I will also give you riches, possessions, and honor, such as none of the kings had who were before you, and none after you shall have the like.” 1 Samuel 16:7 says, “But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.” This is exactly what God does. He peers without restraint or obstruction straight into our heart. Solomon’s prayer was pleasing to God. Solomon recognized the value of wisdom. His plea in that prayer seemed obedient, trusting, submissive, humble, and genuine. Because Solomon did not ask for wealth, possessions, riches, or honor, God answered and granted much wisdom to Solomon, as well as lavishing unrequested blessings on him. As we study the life of Solomon, we see that one critical piece of wisdom we can learn from his story is the importance of carrying more than wisdom. Wisdom without understanding can be very dangerous. Proverbs 4:5-13 says, “Get wisdom; get insight; do not forget, and do not turn away from the words of my mouth. Do not forsake her, and she will keep you; love her, and she will guard you. The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight. Prize her highly, and she will exalt you; she will honor you if you embrace her. She will place on your head a graceful garland; she will bestow on you a beautiful crown. Hear, my son, and accept my words, that the years of your life may be many. I have taught you the way of wisdom; I have led you in the paths of uprightness. When you walk, your step will not be hampered, and if you run, you will not stumble. Keep hold of instruction; do not let go; guard her, for she is your life.” Solomon recognized the value of wisdom and requested it from God, pleasing our Heavenly Father immensely. Yet through the life and choices of Solomon we learn that we need more than wisdom alone. Wisdom without a humble heart for God or an understanding of what God requires to be wise will not keep us humble and reliant on our Heavenly Father. Without understanding and insight from God, personal wisdom may become worldly knowledge rather than godly instruction. We may end up yearning for and following personal, physical, and earthly desires instead of seeking what God desires. Just as Solomon strayed far from what God would deem wise, we are liable to make the same mistakes without keeping our mind, heart, and soul tied in reverence and submission to God. Solomon seemed to return to God in his later years, perhaps by viewing and utilizing the wisdom God endowed to him in his younger years through an eternal perspective. Through his story, we learn that we must teach our children to seek God’s wisdom and the qualities that build and sustain His common sense and uphold His commands. There are so many characters in the Bible that we can draw from, but the next I want to discuss in this podcast episode is the best mentor of all. The perfect mentor in every area is Jesus. John 13:1-17 says, “Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that His hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him, Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going back to God, rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. Then He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around Him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to Him, “Lord, do you wash my feet?” Jesus answered him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand.” Peter said to him, “You shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with Me.” Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!” Jesus said to him, “The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean, but not every one of you.” For He knew who was to betray Him; that was why He said, “Not all of you are clean.” When He had washed their feet and put on His outer garments and resumed his place, He said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.” In this short passage we see deeper into the heart of Jesus. God already knows every sin we have ever or will ever commit – and He loves us regardless. The love of Jesus is far-reaching and perfect, casting out fear and infusing us with hope and mercy that only comes from Him. In this story we understand that Jesus is speaking privately with His disciples and sharing His final instructions. Jesus is preparing them for His death and resurrection because the Lord knew both events would greatly impact and alter the foundation of their beliefs and lives forever. Because Jesus was the sinless, perfect mentor and model servant for God, He set a clear and wise pattern for His disciples to follow. Just as He does for us. In the passage we read, Jesus humbly wrapped a towel around His waist and began washing feet as only a servant would do. When we witness God in the flesh as a servant doing what was considered one of the lowliest chores, we (with the great hindsight of the Holy Word) see genuine and humble love and obedience that should compel each of us to be willing to serve in the same ways, honoring and glorifying God. Jesus showed how to treat others and how to obey God in a way not easily understood by the disciples As I stated earlier, it is only through our Bible study and hindsight that we are able to begin to comprehend the meaning and motive behind this act of Christ. With influence and intention far greater than requesting that the disciples extend kindness toward one another, Jesus modeled how to give and grow His truths through the world and into eternity before He left this earth. What a gift God extended to us! Our human minds cannot begin to fully fathom and we have an added blessing of so much to teach us. Jesus exposes the keys to the Kingdom of God for us to use to unlock the hearts of our children for Him. What a precious privilege! As we strive to build the Heart of Jesus in our children, we must remember our mentor Jesus and humbly show Him to our children in all we are and do. Jesus served the Father and others. Jesus loved the Father and others. Jesus taught the Father to others. Jesus exposed truth to others. Jesus was obedient to the Father in all ways. Jesus was a hearer and a doer of the Word. Jesus sacrificed for the Father and each of us. Jesus drew nearer to God with eternal purpose. As we see the simple truths of who Jesus is through Scripture, it makes it obvious to parents that we must purposely provide opportunities to produce identical characteristics in our children. As we look to our own lives, we must assess where we are so that we are prepared to parent with confidence through connection to Christ. Do you humbly submit to God? Do you listen for His voice? Do you keep areas of your life private or closed-off from God? Do you trust God’s plans? Where can you trust God more? How do you plan to draw nearer to Him? Do you expose more of your fleshly character qualities or more of Christ? How are you purposely showing Christ to your child daily? Are you reading and studying the Bible? Are you reading and studying the Bible with your child? Do you pray for your children daily? Are you asking God to show you what you must do to bring yourself and your children or grandchildren closer to Him? Although these may seem like a lot of questions, these are prompts to propel each of us to what we should consciously be doing for the children God has gifted us to parent for Him; for the people He surrounds us with. As we learn to depend on Him every moment as we live, He will guide us in the ways we should move and mother for Him. His desire is that we succeed in every way He calls for us, especially in the way we live and parent. Dear Heavenly Father, how great You are! You know our every thought, word, act, and motive. Yet you love us with an astounding and everlasting love deeper than we can imagine. You know our faults and failures, yet You entrust us with Your treasures, the children You give to us. Father, please enable us to become the parents You desire in a timely way that allows us to parent with godly wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and love from You. May the hearts of our children be turned to You. May they accept Christ as they complete the purposes You have established for them with complete trust in You. May their love for You and faith in You shine forth to bring others into Your arms. May our children bless You with joy and delight with the love and faith they exhibit and mature with purposeful intention. Father, thank you for entrusting each of us to raise Your children. May our hearts delight You and help us to know how to complete this privilege You have entrusted to us. Enable us to love You with fullness of heart and may the hearts of our children seek You in the same way. Impress Your commandments in not only our hearts, but the hearts of our children. May we think of You and speak of You through each day together as we entrust our future, their futures, to Your capable hands. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to the “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast. You can find this and other transcripts online at terrihitt.com. Remember that both of my podcasts are available on the website. You can also find them on Apple Podcast, Spotify, and they are part of the Spark Media Network. Both podcasts are also found on the Edifi app, where you can hear thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed my podcasts on Apple Podcasts yet? When you review my podcast on Apple Podcasts, it helps to elevate the standing of the podcast online so that more people are allowed to find and hear it. Will you take a moment to follow the shows and think of someone you can share the podcasts with and encourage them to follow and share, as well? Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will direct them away from Christ. Live With Eternal Perspective helps us to find, trust, and follow Christ more intimately. Purposed Parent/Connected Child shares biblical, practical truths for parents and grandparents to influence and mentor Christ over culture. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 135 - May It Be As You Desire, God Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #135 – May It Be As You Desire, God Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. In their unique ways, each of my daughters continue to teach me daily about the beauty of a humble heart. Through their words and actions, they allow me to catch a glimpse of God working in them. As I watch them, observing their very different surface personalities, I receive such joy. Although they have unique personalities, both girls love Jesus and make me think about the heart of Mary, mother of Jesus. They always purposely try to please and obey my husband and me. Not in ways that are only because they know they are supposed to, or feel they have to, but because they want to be pleasing to God. I consider it my honor to teach them to yearn for God and to desire to please Him above anyone else. If they do so, the overflow of their love for Him will cover the rest of us. Just as Mary modeled Christ in her words to Gabriel in Luke 1, “May it be as You Desire, God,” is what Christian parents want to hear and see from their children. Yet our reasons for desiring that make all the difference. My children are not to worship me, but Him. When they do, I see the beautiful benefits of their faith-filled and maturing life. It makes me ponder all the qualities God saw in Mary that made Him plan for her to mother the Savior of the World. I believe there were three keys qualities God considered necessary for the task He called Mary to (and of course, God knew she would possess). Christian parents must lead our children to the feet of Jesus in order to see these same qualities living in them. 1. Mary trusted God. 2. Mary’s life praised God. 3. Mary submitted to God. These are the qualities we want to mentor for our children and see them willingly carry in their life. Psalm 27:4 says, “One thing have I asked of the LORD, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to inquire in His temple.” Wouldn’t you love your children and grandchildren to live with a heart attuned to the Lord like this? We hold such great purpose in the life of children! It is our sacred privilege to intentionally instruct our children and grandchildren to: 1. Love God with a humble heart. 2. Fear God with reverence. 3. Respect God’s holy commands and instructions. 4. Serve God with a humble heart. 5. Obey God with respect for His sovereignty. Luke 1:26-38 says, “In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be borne will be called holy—the Son of God. And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. For nothing will be impossible with God.” And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.” Every time I read this passage of verses, my heart is tender for the love and reverence Mary offered God in a moment that must have been incredibly confusing or startling. Can you imagine being in her position? Even though she was just a young girl, she did not worry or wonder at what was going to happen, how it would come to be, or why God had chosen to reveal such a plan as this to her. The words, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord, let it be to me according to your word,” must have sounded preciously obedient to God’s ears. He had chosen Mary because He knew her reaction would be worthy of the privilege and promise He planned. Maybe it is so special to me because I was an unmarried pregnant teen. I know the shame and fear that a young girl faces. It brings me humble joy to read her reaction and imagine myself in her shoes. Luke 1:46-49 says, “And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for He has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for He who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is His name.” Mary was honored in life with the distinctive role of being the mother of Jesus. This honor required enormous sacrifice and suffering. Mary no doubt suffered deep pain along with the privilege of raising Jesus. Mary’s submissive obedience to God allowed her to humbly accept this position with grace and trust without demanding glory or answers. It is not about her. It is about Him. The Bible is full of character studies and stories that we can draw great wisdom and knowledge from and impart to our children. Let’s take a look at another person God found pleasing. 1. Solomon petitioned God. 2. Solomon heard God. 3. Solomon strayed from God. 4. Solomon returned to God. 2 Chronicles 1:1 says, “Solomon the son of David established himself in his kingdom, and the LORD his God was with him and made him exceedingly great.” 2 Chronicles 1:7-12 says, “In that night God appeared to Solomon, and said to him, “Ask what I shall give you.” And Solomon said to God, “You have shown great and steadfast love to David my father, and have made me king in his place. O LORD God, let your word to David my father be now fulfilled, for you have made me king over a people as numerous as the dust of the earth. Give me now wisdom and knowledge to go out and come in before this people, for who can govern this people of yours, which is so great?” God answered Solomon, “Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked for possessions, wealth, honor, or the life of those who hate you, and have not even asked for long life, but have asked for wisdom and knowledge for yourself that you may govern my people over whom I have made you king, wisdom and knowledge are granted to you. I will also give you riches, possessions, and honor, such as none of the kings had who were before you, and none after you shall have the like.” 1 Samuel 16:7 says, “But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.” This is exactly what God does. He peers without restraint or obstruction straight into our heart. Solomon’s prayer was pleasing to God. Solomon recognized the value of wisdom. His plea in that prayer seemed obedient, trusting, submissive, humble, and genuine. Because Solomon did not ask for wealth, possessions, riches, or honor, God answered and granted much wisdom to Solomon, as well as lavishing unrequested blessings on him. As we study the life of Solomon, we see that one critical piece of wisdom we can learn from his story is the importance of carrying more than wisdom. Wisdom without understanding can be very dangerous. Proverbs 4:5-13 says, “Get wisdom; get insight; do not forget, and do not turn away from the words of my mouth. Do not forsake her, and she will keep you; love her, and she will guard you. The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight. Prize her highly, and she will exalt you; she will honor you if you embrace her. She will place on your head a graceful garland; she will bestow on you a beautiful crown. Hear, my son, and accept my words, that the years of your life may be many. I have taught you the way of wisdom; I have led you in the paths of uprightness. When you walk, your step will not be hampered, and if you run, you will not stumble. Keep hold of instruction; do not let go; guard her, for she is your life.” Solomon recognized the value of wisdom and requested it from God, pleasing our Heavenly Father immensely. Yet through the life and choices of Solomon we learn that we need more than wisdom alone. Wisdom without a humble heart for God or an understanding of what God requires to be wise will not keep us humble and reliant on our Heavenly Father. Without understanding and insight from God, personal wisdom may become worldly knowledge rather than godly instruction. We may end up yearning for and following personal, physical, and earthly desires instead of seeking what God desires. Just as Solomon strayed far from what God would deem wise, we are liable to make the same mistakes without keeping our mind, heart, and soul tied in reverence and submission to God. Solomon seemed to return to God in his later years, perhaps by viewing and utilizing the wisdom God endowed to him in his younger years through an eternal perspective. Through his story, we learn that we must teach our children to seek God’s wisdom and the qualities that build and sustain His common sense and uphold His commands. There are so many characters in the Bible that we can draw from, but the next I want to discuss in this podcast episode is the best mentor of all. The perfect mentor in every area is Jesus. John 13:1-17 says, “Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that His hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him, Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going back to God, rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. Then He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around Him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to Him, “Lord, do you wash my feet?” Jesus answered him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand.” Peter said to him, “You shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with Me.” Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!” Jesus said to him, “The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean, but not every one of you.” For He knew who was to betray Him; that was why He said, “Not all of you are clean.” When He had washed their feet and put on His outer garments and resumed his place, He said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.” In this short passage we see deeper into the heart of Jesus. God already knows every sin we have ever or will ever commit – and He loves us regardless. The love of Jesus is far-reaching and perfect, casting out fear and infusing us with hope and mercy that only comes from Him. In this story we understand that Jesus is speaking privately with His disciples and sharing His final instructions. Jesus is preparing them for His death and resurrection because the Lord knew both events would greatly impact and alter the foundation of their beliefs and lives forever. Because Jesus was the sinless, perfect mentor and model servant for God, He set a clear and wise pattern for His disciples to follow. Just as He does for us. In the passage we read, Jesus humbly wrapped a towel around His waist and began washing feet as only a servant would do. When we witness God in the flesh as a servant doing what was considered one of the lowliest chores, we (with the great hindsight of the Holy Word) see genuine and humble love and obedience that should compel each of us to be willing to serve in the same ways, honoring and glorifying God. Jesus showed how to treat others and how to obey God in a way not easily understood by the disciples As I stated earlier, it is only through our Bible study and hindsight that we are able to begin to comprehend the meaning and motive behind this act of Christ. With influence and intention far greater than requesting that the disciples extend kindness toward one another, Jesus modeled how to give and grow His truths through the world and into eternity before He left this earth. What a gift God extended to us! Our human minds cannot begin to fully fathom and we have an added blessing of so much to teach us. Jesus exposes the keys to the Kingdom of God for us to use to unlock the hearts of our children for Him. What a precious privilege! As we strive to build the Heart of Jesus in our children, we must remember our mentor Jesus and humbly show Him to our children in all we are and do. Jesus served the Father and others. Jesus loved the Father and others. Jesus taught the Father to others. Jesus exposed truth to others. Jesus was obedient to the Father in all ways. Jesus was a hearer and a doer of the Word. Jesus sacrificed for the Father and each of us. Jesus drew nearer to God with eternal purpose. As we see the simple truths of who Jesus is through Scripture, it makes it obvious to parents that we must purposely provide opportunities to produce identical characteristics in our children. As we look to our own lives, we must assess where we are so that we are prepared to parent with confidence through connection to Christ. Do you humbly submit to God? Do you listen for His voice? Do you keep areas of your life private or closed-off from God? Do you trust God’s plans? Where can you trust God more? How do you plan to draw nearer to Him? Do you expose more of your fleshly character qualities or more of Christ? How are you purposely showing Christ to your child daily? Are you reading and studying the Bible? Are you reading and studying the Bible with your child? Do you pray for your children daily? Are you asking God to show you what you must do to bring yourself and your children or grandchildren closer to Him? Although these may seem like a lot of questions, these are prompts to propel each of us to what we should consciously be doing for the children God has gifted us to parent for Him; for the people He surrounds us with. As we learn to depend on Him every moment as we live, He will guide us in the ways we should move and mother for Him. His desire is that we succeed in every way He calls for us, especially in the way we live and parent. Dear Heavenly Father, how great You are! You know our every thought, word, act, and motive. Yet you love us with an astounding and everlasting love deeper than we can imagine. You know our faults and failures, yet You entrust us with Your treasures, the children You give to us. Father, please enable us to become the parents You desire in a timely way that allows us to parent with godly wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and love from You. May the hearts of our children be turned to You. May they accept Christ as they complete the purposes You have established for them with complete trust in You. May their love for You and faith in You shine forth to bring others into Your arms. May our children bless You with joy and delight with the love and faith they exhibit and mature with purposeful intention. Father, thank you for entrusting each of us to raise Your children. May our hearts delight You and help us to know how to complete this privilege You have entrusted to us. Enable us to love You with fullness of heart and may the hearts of our children seek You in the same way. Impress Your commandments in not only our hearts, but the hearts of our children. May we think of You and speak of You through each day together as we entrust our future, their futures, to Your capable hands. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to the “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast. You can find this and other transcripts online at terrihitt.com. Remember that both of my podcasts are available on the website. You can also find them on Apple Podcast, Spotify, and they are part of the Spark Media Network. Both podcasts are also found on the Edifi app, where you can hear thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed my podcasts on Apple Podcasts yet? When you review my podcast on Apple Podcasts, it helps to elevate the standing of the podcast online so that more people are allowed to find and hear it. Will you take a moment to follow the shows and think of someone you can share the podcasts with and encourage them to follow and share, as well? Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will direct them away from Christ. Live With Eternal Perspective helps us to find, trust, and follow Christ more intimately. Purposed Parent/Connected Child shares biblical, practical truths for parents and grandparents to influence and mentor Christ over culture. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

< Back Purposed Parent/Connected Child Podcast Episode 015 - Hearing God's Voice Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child Podcast Episode #015 – Hearing God’s Voice Are you yearning for greater connection with your child? Would you like to parent beyond the moment with eternal perspective? Let’s grow together now with practical tips, scripture, and stories geared to draw your heart to Jesus and guide your child into His arms. In past episodes of the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast we have talked about raising our children to be set-apart, preparing them for spiritual warfare, helping them find identity through Christ, and other important issues. Much of what we discuss is rooted by the topic we’ll explore today. How do we teach our children to listen for and recognize God’s voice? Every believer wants their children to desire God. We also want our child to know when they hear Him. This is a quality that must be learned, because they will need this skill throughout their life. We must teach them that although God speaks to each person uniquely, He remains consistent in basic qualities . There are two important truths we must help our child to understand and remember: 1. God convicts, but doesn’t condemn . John 16:13 says, “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; He will speak only what He hears, and He will tell you what is yet to come .” God, in His holiness and loving kindness toward us, will impress us with a sense of guilt or wrong-doing. Our Heavenly Father cannot sin. As believers, we know that the Holy Spirit living within us will not allow us to go against God without some type of conviction pricking us. However, God does not condemn. Condemnation is a tactic used by the devil to pummel us with a pronouncement that we are unfit for God’s use. Condemnation is the place Satan desires us to stay without help or hope so that we do not repent and seek forgiveness, or allow God to cleanse us and move us into service for Him. 2. God is consistent, never contradicting . John 16:7-8 says, “But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. When He comes, He will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment.” God is Truth . He cannot lie or deceive. However, the world we are a part of is in direct opposition to the Word of God. When God speaks to us, He will never lead us to anything that opposes what His word says. Remember the tactics of the devil in the garden with Adam and Eve? He tricked Eve by taking God’s words, but twisting them enough that confusion reigned. God will never stray from His holy truths and commandments. We can rest in the knowledge that whatever He speaks into our life or however He leads us, it will always be in total alignment with His Word. Once our children understand that God only guides by truth , holiness , and love , they will be better equipped to navigate this world with confidence that they will be able to recognize God’s voice. Now that we know how to instruct them in the basic truths on which to measure God’s voice against that of self, world, or Satan, let’s discuss how to prepare them to recognize God. What are some of the most effective ways to instruct our children to hear and experience fellowship with God daily? I’ll share 9 ways now: 1. Through Scripture – Hebrews 4:12 says, “ For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart .” and 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” Mentoring God though a strong and growing relationship with Jesus and letting our children see us seek God through the Bible encourages them to do the same. When we teach our children to seek and know God through His word, we are training them to trust the Lord, to follow Him, and to recognize Him. The relationship they grow through this method will also build the foundation for a strong prayer life. Together, they will be encouraged to seek their Heavenly Father and to listen for Him daily. 2. Through godly counsel – Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. ” and Proverbs 12:15 says, “The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.” Again, what we mentor is key. If we know the Lord and are already in or growing a strong walk with Him, we are better equipped to have godly wisdom to impart to our children. We are also more likely to have other godly leaders or influencers in our life who will be well equipped to counsel with our children, if needed. We will also be able to advise our children regarding godly leaders they can trust. Also, the Bible is our main source of wisdom. Again, if they are in the Word, studying the Word, and receiving godly counsel regarding God’s word, it is the absolute best source they can access. 3. Through experiences – There are incredible stories in the Bible where people saw and heard God through experiences. Jonah in the belly of the whale, Moses and the burning bush or at the parting of the Red Sea, Daniel in the lion’s den, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace. The stories are miraculous and many. Just as God worked miracles in days past, He is able to perform miraculous feats in our lives today. We do have to beware as we teach our children that we can see and hear God through experiences, however. Experiences are so closely tied to our feelings and emotions, and those are not trustworthy indicators we want to instruct our children to use. Remember the two basic truths we shared in the beginning of the podcast. Bring everything back to the Bible. God never contradicts His word and He never condemns. 4. Through thoughts – Amos 4:13 says, “He who forms the mountains, who creates the wind, and who reveals His thoughts to mankind, who turns dawn to darkness, and treads on the heights of the earth— the LORD God Almighty is his name.” God’s ways are not typically our ways. Through a deepening, humble relationship with God through Jesus as Savior, our thoughts are transformed to become more like His. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will .” Philippians 4:8 says, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” 5. Through nature – Romans 1:18-20 says, “The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people, who suppress the truth by their wickedness since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.” Exodus 40:38 says, “ So the cloud of the LORD was over the tabernacle by day, and fire was in the cloud by night, in the sight of all the Israelites during all their travels.” 6. Through visuals – Acts 2:17 says, “In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.” Joel 2:28 says, “And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions.” God has been known to use dreams or a vision actually seen in minds to give guidance or a message. Through Old Testament stories we hear of God giving revelation in this way. 7. Through faith – Romans 10:17 says, “Consequently, faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ. ” Not all who hear will respond to the Lord. When we hear and believe, we receive new life through Christ. God’s word is clear. When we have a close walk and draw nearer to God through faith, we will hear His guidance and direction more clearly. The same is true for our children as they mature their faith. 8. Through peace – Philippians 4:7 says, “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” When we and our children bring anxieties and troubles to God through prayer and faith, hope, and trust, we will receive the perfect peace beyond our understanding. 9. Through His still, small voice - 1 Kings 19:12 says, “After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.” God works in very powerful ways, but also in gentle ways that we can be assured come from Him. Now that we know how to help our children to live with assurance that they can hear God, let’s uncover what might keep them from hearing Him. Bitterness, jealousy, unforgiveness…the list can go on. Do you understand what I am referring to ? Sin . Job 42:5 says, “My ears had heard of You but now my eyes have seen You.” Equipping our children for a life of closeness and holiness to God through Jesus Christ is a challenge bigger than any of us. In our own strength, we are certainly not equipped to enable our children to live for Him. Through faith and trust, we are able to deepen our walk moment by moment so that we are more discerning and knowledgeable about how to mentor Christ to our children. As our children, draw near to Him so that He will draw nearer to them, the faith they hear and read about becomes real . Their faith becomes individual . It becomes purposed . Their faith becomes life-saving and life-changing . What if your child says they cannot hear from God, but they want to? James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” It takes time to grow a faith that seeks and hears our Father. Continue to mentor strong and intentional faith for your child. Read God’s word with them, pray with them and for them, ask them to pray for you, study God’s word with them. Successful and maturing faith is a lifestyle. It’s not a Sunday activity or the responsibility of the church. Continue your faith walk and be accessible and loving so that your child sees Jesus in you and desires Him inside himself. Dear Heavenly Father, Your goodness truly overwhelms us. As we draw nearer to You, Your Word promises us that You will draw nearer to us. Father, we long to carry faith that shines, but the work is hard. In order to have that faith, it must be forged, and the process is intensely hard, it can be scary. We desire that faith for our children, yet it can be so hard to see them suffer, to walk through the hurts and hardships with them. Yet, Your word tells us You are with us, and we know You are with them wherever they go. May we not rescue our children when they are in the fires, but guide them to look Up to You. May we set godly examples in every way. Help us to grow and mature in You, not overlooking the furnace we must be refined in. Life is hard, but You told us it would be. Help us keep the faith and shine Your love and light so that You are made attractive and accessible to our children in ways that please and honor You. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this podcast. The Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast is part of the Spark Media Network and can also be found on the Edifi app. Each episode is also available at terrihitt.com, where you can access the episodes housed in one convenient location, receive access to blog posts, read transcripts, and find additional resources designed to mature your walk with Christ and equip you to raise or influence connected children through Him. God knows that we are not capable of successful parenting on our own. As we rely on Him, releasing doubts and expectations, and humbly bow to His guidance and experience, we find greater clarity in parenting and a wondrous walk with our Creator that will extend to our children and those around us for generations . I pray this podcast helps you parent with purpose and deepen your connection to Jesus and your children as you intentionally place Christ above culture or self. Allow Him to work through you for true connection that will draw your children to Him and build a maturing relationship with Christ and your child that lasts for eternity. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #059 – Building Biblical Self-Esteem in Children Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Last week on the podcast we explored building biblical self-esteem. This is such a huge topic to cover, yet it boils down to a very simple truth. When we build our confidence in the Lord, we find that our faith in self is bolstered and connected to the only source that is able to sustain, rebuild, and perfect us. We no longer have to flounder or attempt to prove ourselves. This world no longer holds us captive in what culture or experiences attempt to shape us to become. We are finally free to fully explore who we were created to be and as we view ourselves through God’s perspective, we begin to place Him, then others, above us in a humble, respectful, and serving way that fills us more deeply than before. If you are a parent, your solid dependence on, and confidence in God, built through Jesus, is one of the strongest gifts you can give your child. As you mature in God, and you lovingly model that relationship to your children, you begin to instill a legacy of faith that will confidently carry them for generations. Why is it that mothers purpose to carry such heavy loads to ensure that our children have the best education, opportunities, clothes, beautifully decorated bedrooms, etc., yet many do not place the importance of a solid biblical foundation and maturing walk with Jesus at the top of their endless list of what truly matters? I understand. As you may know, I have already raised one set of precious children to adulthood. Once they were raised, God placed a special yearning, a calling, on the hearts of my husband and myself. Neither of us had the desire to begin raising children again. It was truly the Holy Spirit working within us. As our first two were growing up, we were happy and knew we were blessed to have them, but we were 18 and 21 when we had them, so we understood that we would still be young when they reached adulthood! We actually looked forward to that time. We were both still in our thirties when both of our children had already graduated from high school. God, however, had other plans. Once He let us in on the first step, we knew He had blessed us beyond what we ever expected. Our world took a drastic turn as He carried us to a completely new life with new goals and expectations. We brought our infant daughter home from China when I was 44 years old. A 26 year difference in age when beginning another family set is tremendous, yet God infused us with delight, health, and energy for the next phase of living and His plans for us. Because I was finally purposely maturing in my walk with Christ daily and was being granted the opportunity to parent from scratch again, I treasured moments to seek God through prayer and soul-searching decisions. My husband and I knew that we were not the same people we were at 18 and 21. What did we want to change? This was our opportunity. We were blessed to explore what our parenting priorities would be. What was God whispering to our spirit? What did He tell us was important to Him? We prayed a lot individually, but also as a team. God was the center of our marriage and we wanted our child to be raised knowing Him as the center of their life, as well. My husband and I wanted to fully honor and obey God this time. Although I believed we made some right choices raising my first set of children as we grew in Christ, I realized how far I had been from truly resting in God and making Him known in the ways God had made known to me as I matured in Him. We were good parents before, but I knew in my heart we were more worldly than godly as we parented. I didn’t even know Jesus when I first became a mother. I knew it would be our focus this time to raise a child who chose Jesus over culture and that God would be an integral part of each day. Why am I saying all of this? It is imperative that we examine our parenting in light of what God would say if He were in the room and you were seeking counsel from Him. Remember this: He is with you. We should be seeking Him moment by moment through prayer. Our Heavenly Father is a Good Father. God made each of us. He knows what type of parent you are, where you need help, where you need to change, what you need to release to Him, what you need to be on our knees more for, and exactly what each of your children need. He placed them with you for a purpose. He desires you to rely on Him and to mentor them to do the same. One of the crucial areas of raising a child is instilling them with godly, biblical self-esteem. Since last week we discussed the topic of self-esteem in adults, I believe it is important to follow-up this week with the topic of our children. I feel that I did not serve my children or the Lord well in this area the first time I parented. It wasn’t that I didn’t give my children time. I was there for them. They knew how much my husband and I loved them. Yet, we built their confidence and self-esteem more on what this world measures and on them believing in themselves. At that time, I wasn’t as adept at finding the gifts God gave each of them and helping them grow their skills for the Lord. I didn’t teach them to seek God’s will to find the purpose He had for them in a way that used what talents and interests they possessed and gave that service back to Him. Of course, I prayed and thought I was doing a good job at the time, but the truth is that I was not yet mature enough in my personal faith to know what I was lacking. My children did not receive the best measure of confidence they should have received in the way God desires them to receive it – from Him. Parenting is beyond challenging. We are raising humans! Even when we are mature followers of Christ, we will never know all of the answers. The closer we are to living as Jesus, the more we cling to Him, the more adept we become at meeting the needs our child carries. How? Because we submit and allow Him to work through us. We will never be perfect, but God doesn’t expect us to be. He does, however, desire for us to parent with a focus on Him and a mind and heart set on raising children to know, honor, and obey Him. One way to do that is to create purposeful ways to instill biblical self-esteem in our children and teach them to find identity through Him and the biblical truths God has established. Let’s examine the best methods to build esteem and identity that focuses on and honors God. You might wonder if self-esteem and Identity are the same. The two are slightly different, but do affect each other. Identity reveals how you perceive yourself. It is who you think you are and is directly tied to your sense of self-worth, since it shows how you define yourself. Self-esteem exposes the value you see in yourself. As followers of Jesus, we understand that God establishes identity in us when He plans our life, even before He places us in the womb. God already defined and valued each of us and our children before we were ever born. Psalm 139:13-18 says, “You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! I can’t even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand! And when I wake up, You are still with me!” In this broken world, identity can easily become questioned or twisted when our self-esteem is not built on God’s loving truths. This is a lengthy list, and much of it pertains to us, as well as our children. You don’t need to try to remember or write all of these suggestions down. Please visit terrihitt.com and print the transcript for this podcast or contact me at info@terrihitt.com and I will send you the list. 1. Build personal identity and worth through God. When parents have a strong and maturing relationship with the Lord, our act of parenting becomes more loving and godly. 2. Let your child see you live a confident and bold life of faith and trust in God. 3. Teach your child God’s word when they are young – right from the beginning of their life, or as soon as you have them. 4. Raise your child to understand God’s love and grace – but also their need for repentance through Jesus. 5. Let your child know you are a sinner, too. Tell them about your walk with Jesus in age appropriate times and words. Teach them how important Jesus is to you. 6. Bring God into all areas of life. He is the Creator of all things. God should be valued, recognized, praised, worshipped, and discussed naturally and flow seamlessly into all aspects of daily life and conversation. 7. Raise your child to value Jesus more than culture – because you do. 8. Let your child know that you are raising him to know God because He commands you to in His word and because you love Him and want to obey Him. 9. Spend one-on-one time with your child. Love them through their “love language.” Let them know you love them for simply being themselves, not what they accomplish. When your child feels valued by you, they are more likely to believe God finds them valuable and lovable. 10. Let your child see you read the Bible regularly. 11. Read the Bible with your child. Discuss readings and write or memorize scripture together. 12. Encourage them to read their Bible independently, as well. 13. Help them to lead family prayers or worship sometimes. 14. Pray together. Let your child know you pray for them. Ask them to pray for you, too. 15. Point out ways God would have your child handle disappointments, situations, others, etc in a loving, patient, understanding manner. Teach them to seek Him in all ways. 16. Compliment your child often for godly character, morals, integrity, etc. 17. Look them in the eye as you speak to them. This one is hard. I know at our house we move so much and are busy, but if you are like me, make it a point to seek eye contact as often as you can. Stronger connection and love are built through looking fully at each other. 18. Limit electronic time. 19. Monitor books, magazines, television, movies, music, attire, etc. Study the elements of faith versus worldly values that are included in the materials your child uses. Each one helps to shape their identity and eternity. Even some music that is labeled Christian is far from it. Popular books, shows, and some educational resources also quietly and sneakily undermine God’s morals and desires for your precious child. Review materials with a pure and prayerful heart. Don’t be afraid to restrict what God prompts you to. 20. Help your child discover their gifts, talents, and interests. Find ways they can use them for God. 21. Help your child find God’s purpose for them. This is key in helping them build a strong identity. 22. Serve together. 23. Set godly boundaries for your child, and follow through with correction when needed. Remember that correction is not shame or punishment. 24. Do not attempt to be your child’s best friend. Point them to God and help them rely on Him first. 25. Let your child know the wisdom of this world will be contrary to God’s. As we discussed earlier, self-esteem is linked to what our child believes about himself. When he has been taught to build esteem for self on what God’s opinion of him is, your child will carry a much higher value of self. Not surprisingly, the greater biblical value he places on himself, the healthier he will be overall. He will also become more joyful and able to accept and handle stress and worry because he is learning to release it to God. When this is the case, your child is also more apt to be honest and trustworthy. In contrast to this type of self-confidence and value, if your child bases self-worth on secular views, he is more likely to blame others for his mistakes and failures, use words as weapons against himself and others, lie, avoid challenges and hard work, carry more stress and worry, have less friends, desire isolation over community, have poor eye contact, and see no need for God in his life. Mark 10:13-16 says, “One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could touch and bless them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering Him. When Jesus saw what was happening, He was angry with his disciples. He said to them, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” Then He took the children in his arms and placed His hands on their heads and blessed them.” Jesus desires children to know Him. He longs for them to willingly choose Him and not be held away. The heart of a child is open to the truth and love of Jesus more than at any other time in his life. God wants children to know they are loved and valued, that they were created on purpose for a unique function only they possess. Matthew 10:29-31 says, “What is the price of two sparrows—one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.” God knows that in order for them to be healthy, a child must begin building a focused sense of esteem through God and His value of him. Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Instill God’s truths and desires in your child. Let him know that God cares and loves him with a passion we cannot comprehend, but know to be true. Back up the truths you teach your child with God’s word and a loving spirit, so he thirsts for God and the Bible himself. Help him develop an instinctive habit for turning to God throughout his lifetime. Of all the plans we make for our children, all of the preparations for their future, helping them build a solid foundation of faith, identity, and self-esteem based on God’s value of them should be at the top. At the end of their life, it will not matter whether they attended college, what their grades were, how well they played sports, whether they made the dance team, or how many friends they had. All God will care about is whether Jesus knows your child as His own and if he lived his life as God desired. Every choice and action your child makes will be based on what he believes about himself, and what his identity and self-esteem are built on and molded from. It will prove what your child believes about eternity. Help him to begin living with an eternal perspective now. Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for the blessed opportunity to parent your children. What a privilege we have to be entrusted with them for such a time as we are together in this world. Father, help us to mold and build the proper relationship with you ourselves so that we can model a life as close to Jesus as possible. Help us to rely on You to know and lead each child we have in the ways you desire. We know so little, Lord, and the task is mighty. We need you! Help us, Father, to guide our children straight to you and teach them to find identity through You and to esteem themselves to be humble, yet mighty in You. Help us to remain on our knees as we parent, Lord. May we grow in You with each day and shine You into the hearts of our children. May we be a great blessing that leads them straight to You so they may receive the joys and blessings You have for them now and for eternity. In Your precious and holy name we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this episode. Be sure to sign up for my email list to be notified when my next resource, “Scattering Seeds: Planting Character and Faith in Your Child” releases. This free eBook is an excellent encouragement and support for mothers or grandmothers of young children. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Christ and encourage you to raise or influence children to chase Jesus instead of this world. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to Jesus and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up and find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 059 Building Biblical Self-Esteem in Children Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #059 – Building Biblical Self-Esteem in Children Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Last week on the podcast we explored building biblical self-esteem. This is such a huge topic to cover, yet it boils down to a very simple truth. When we build our confidence in the Lord, we find that our faith in self is bolstered and connected to the only source that is able to sustain, rebuild, and perfect us. We no longer have to flounder or attempt to prove ourselves. This world no longer holds us captive in what culture or experiences attempt to shape us to become. We are finally free to fully explore who we were created to be and as we view ourselves through God’s perspective, we begin to place Him, then others, above us in a humble, respectful, and serving way that fills us more deeply than before. If you are a parent, your solid dependence on, and confidence in God, built through Jesus, is one of the strongest gifts you can give your child. As you mature in God, and you lovingly model that relationship to your children, you begin to instill a legacy of faith that will confidently carry them for generations. Why is it that mothers purpose to carry such heavy loads to ensure that our children have the best education, opportunities, clothes, beautifully decorated bedrooms, etc., yet many do not place the importance of a solid biblical foundation and maturing walk with Jesus at the top of their endless list of what truly matters? I understand. As you may know, I have already raised one set of precious children to adulthood. Once they were raised, God placed a special yearning, a calling, on the hearts of my husband and myself. Neither of us had the desire to begin raising children again. It was truly the Holy Spirit working within us. As our first two were growing up, we were happy and knew we were blessed to have them, but we were 18 and 21 when we had them, so we understood that we would still be young when they reached adulthood! We actually looked forward to that time. We were both still in our thirties when both of our children had already graduated from high school. God, however, had other plans. Once He let us in on the first step, we knew He had blessed us beyond what we ever expected. Our world took a drastic turn as He carried us to a completely new life with new goals and expectations. We brought our infant daughter home from China when I was 44 years old. A 26 year difference in age when beginning another family set is tremendous, yet God infused us with delight, health, and energy for the next phase of living and His plans for us. Because I was finally purposely maturing in my walk with Christ daily and was being granted the opportunity to parent from scratch again, I treasured moments to seek God through prayer and soul-searching decisions. My husband and I knew that we were not the same people we were at 18 and 21. What did we want to change? This was our opportunity. We were blessed to explore what our parenting priorities would be. What was God whispering to our spirit? What did He tell us was important to Him? We prayed a lot individually, but also as a team. God was the center of our marriage and we wanted our child to be raised knowing Him as the center of their life, as well. My husband and I wanted to fully honor and obey God this time. Although I believed we made some right choices raising my first set of children as we grew in Christ, I realized how far I had been from truly resting in God and making Him known in the ways God had made known to me as I matured in Him. We were good parents before, but I knew in my heart we were more worldly than godly as we parented. I didn’t even know Jesus when I first became a mother. I knew it would be our focus this time to raise a child who chose Jesus over culture and that God would be an integral part of each day. Why am I saying all of this? It is imperative that we examine our parenting in light of what God would say if He were in the room and you were seeking counsel from Him. Remember this: He is with you. We should be seeking Him moment by moment through prayer. Our Heavenly Father is a Good Father. God made each of us. He knows what type of parent you are, where you need help, where you need to change, what you need to release to Him, what you need to be on our knees more for, and exactly what each of your children need. He placed them with you for a purpose. He desires you to rely on Him and to mentor them to do the same. One of the crucial areas of raising a child is instilling them with godly, biblical self-esteem. Since last week we discussed the topic of self-esteem in adults, I believe it is important to follow-up this week with the topic of our children. I feel that I did not serve my children or the Lord well in this area the first time I parented. It wasn’t that I didn’t give my children time. I was there for them. They knew how much my husband and I loved them. Yet, we built their confidence and self-esteem more on what this world measures and on them believing in themselves. At that time, I wasn’t as adept at finding the gifts God gave each of them and helping them grow their skills for the Lord. I didn’t teach them to seek God’s will to find the purpose He had for them in a way that used what talents and interests they possessed and gave that service back to Him. Of course, I prayed and thought I was doing a good job at the time, but the truth is that I was not yet mature enough in my personal faith to know what I was lacking. My children did not receive the best measure of confidence they should have received in the way God desires them to receive it – from Him. Parenting is beyond challenging. We are raising humans! Even when we are mature followers of Christ, we will never know all of the answers. The closer we are to living as Jesus, the more we cling to Him, the more adept we become at meeting the needs our child carries. How? Because we submit and allow Him to work through us. We will never be perfect, but God doesn’t expect us to be. He does, however, desire for us to parent with a focus on Him and a mind and heart set on raising children to know, honor, and obey Him. One way to do that is to create purposeful ways to instill biblical self-esteem in our children and teach them to find identity through Him and the biblical truths God has established. Let’s examine the best methods to build esteem and identity that focuses on and honors God. You might wonder if self-esteem and Identity are the same. The two are slightly different, but do affect each other. Identity reveals how you perceive yourself. It is who you think you are and is directly tied to your sense of self-worth, since it shows how you define yourself. Self-esteem exposes the value you see in yourself. As followers of Jesus, we understand that God establishes identity in us when He plans our life, even before He places us in the womb. God already defined and valued each of us and our children before we were ever born. Psalm 139:13-18 says, “You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! I can’t even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand! And when I wake up, You are still with me!” In this broken world, identity can easily become questioned or twisted when our self-esteem is not built on God’s loving truths. This is a lengthy list, and much of it pertains to us, as well as our children. You don’t need to try to remember or write all of these suggestions down. Please visit terrihitt.com and print the transcript for this podcast or contact me at info@terrihitt.com and I will send you the list. 1. Build personal identity and worth through God. When parents have a strong and maturing relationship with the Lord, our act of parenting becomes more loving and godly. 2. Let your child see you live a confident and bold life of faith and trust in God. 3. Teach your child God’s word when they are young – right from the beginning of their life, or as soon as you have them. 4. Raise your child to understand God’s love and grace – but also their need for repentance through Jesus. 5. Let your child know you are a sinner, too. Tell them about your walk with Jesus in age appropriate times and words. Teach them how important Jesus is to you. 6. Bring God into all areas of life. He is the Creator of all things. God should be valued, recognized, praised, worshipped, and discussed naturally and flow seamlessly into all aspects of daily life and conversation. 7. Raise your child to value Jesus more than culture – because you do. 8. Let your child know that you are raising him to know God because He commands you to in His word and because you love Him and want to obey Him. 9. Spend one-on-one time with your child. Love them through their “love language.” Let them know you love them for simply being themselves, not what they accomplish. When your child feels valued by you, they are more likely to believe God finds them valuable and lovable. 10. Let your child see you read the Bible regularly. 11. Read the Bible with your child. Discuss readings and write or memorize scripture together. 12. Encourage them to read their Bible independently, as well. 13. Help them to lead family prayers or worship sometimes. 14. Pray together. Let your child know you pray for them. Ask them to pray for you, too. 15. Point out ways God would have your child handle disappointments, situations, others, etc in a loving, patient, understanding manner. Teach them to seek Him in all ways. 16. Compliment your child often for godly character, morals, integrity, etc. 17. Look them in the eye as you speak to them. This one is hard. I know at our house we move so much and are busy, but if you are like me, make it a point to seek eye contact as often as you can. Stronger connection and love are built through looking fully at each other. 18. Limit electronic time. 19. Monitor books, magazines, television, movies, music, attire, etc. Study the elements of faith versus worldly values that are included in the materials your child uses. Each one helps to shape their identity and eternity. Even some music that is labeled Christian is far from it. Popular books, shows, and some educational resources also quietly and sneakily undermine God’s morals and desires for your precious child. Review materials with a pure and prayerful heart. Don’t be afraid to restrict what God prompts you to. 20. Help your child discover their gifts, talents, and interests. Find ways they can use them for God. 21. Help your child find God’s purpose for them. This is key in helping them build a strong identity. 22. Serve together. 23. Set godly boundaries for your child, and follow through with correction when needed. Remember that correction is not shame or punishment. 24. Do not attempt to be your child’s best friend. Point them to God and help them rely on Him first. 25. Let your child know the wisdom of this world will be contrary to God’s. As we discussed earlier, self-esteem is linked to what our child believes about himself. When he has been taught to build esteem for self on what God’s opinion of him is, your child will carry a much higher value of self. Not surprisingly, the greater biblical value he places on himself, the healthier he will be overall. He will also become more joyful and able to accept and handle stress and worry because he is learning to release it to God. When this is the case, your child is also more apt to be honest and trustworthy. In contrast to this type of self-confidence and value, if your child bases self-worth on secular views, he is more likely to blame others for his mistakes and failures, use words as weapons against himself and others, lie, avoid challenges and hard work, carry more stress and worry, have less friends, desire isolation over community, have poor eye contact, and see no need for God in his life. Mark 10:13-16 says, “One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could touch and bless them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering Him. When Jesus saw what was happening, He was angry with his disciples. He said to them, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” Then He took the children in his arms and placed His hands on their heads and blessed them.” Jesus desires children to know Him. He longs for them to willingly choose Him and not be held away. The heart of a child is open to the truth and love of Jesus more than at any other time in his life. God wants children to know they are loved and valued, that they were created on purpose for a unique function only they possess. Matthew 10:29-31 says, “What is the price of two sparrows—one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.” God knows that in order for them to be healthy, a child must begin building a focused sense of esteem through God and His value of him. Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Instill God’s truths and desires in your child. Let him know that God cares and loves him with a passion we cannot comprehend, but know to be true. Back up the truths you teach your child with God’s word and a loving spirit, so he thirsts for God and the Bible himself. Help him develop an instinctive habit for turning to God throughout his lifetime. Of all the plans we make for our children, all of the preparations for their future, helping them build a solid foundation of faith, identity, and self-esteem based on God’s value of them should be at the top. At the end of their life, it will not matter whether they attended college, what their grades were, how well they played sports, whether they made the dance team, or how many friends they had. All God will care about is whether Jesus knows your child as His own and if he lived his life as God desired. Every choice and action your child makes will be based on what he believes about himself, and what his identity and self-esteem are built on and molded from. It will prove what your child believes about eternity. Help him to begin living with an eternal perspective now. Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for the blessed opportunity to parent your children. What a privilege we have to be entrusted with them for such a time as we are together in this world. Father, help us to mold and build the proper relationship with you ourselves so that we can model a life as close to Jesus as possible. Help us to rely on You to know and lead each child we have in the ways you desire. We know so little, Lord, and the task is mighty. We need you! Help us, Father, to guide our children straight to you and teach them to find identity through You and to esteem themselves to be humble, yet mighty in You. Help us to remain on our knees as we parent, Lord. May we grow in You with each day and shine You into the hearts of our children. May we be a great blessing that leads them straight to You so they may receive the joys and blessings You have for them now and for eternity. In Your precious and holy name we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this episode. Be sure to sign up for my email list to be notified when my next resource, “Scattering Seeds: Planting Character and Faith in Your Child” releases. This free eBook is an excellent encouragement and support for mothers or grandmothers of young children. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Christ and encourage you to raise or influence children to chase Jesus instead of this world. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to Jesus and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up and find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #093 – Interview with Emily Hladik – Understanding American History – Part 1 Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Over the last several weeks, I’ve interviewed several wise and knowledgeable leaders in the homeschool industry. The key is that they are not only able to assist in the world of home education, but love Jesus. The wisdom and understanding they share about knowing children, giving them a full and rich education, and raising them to know and honor Jesus is what sets them apart. I’m excited to introduce another new guest on the podcast today. Emily Hladik is a wife, a follower of Jesus, and a homeschool mother who shares her passion for truth through eLearning to reach the next generation of American patriots. Emily began teaching as an adjunct college instructor of political science and history in 2004 and has a Master of Education and a BA in Political Science and History. She has also served as the Challenge 1 Director in the Classical Conversations community. Emily doesn’t care much for shopping and decorating, but is passionate about Jesus, history, politics, and is the founder and curriculum creator of Great American Studies. I appreciate her directness and wise views on history and what we must do to honor and uphold it in society today. Please join me as we converse about the Lord, politics, history, life, children, parenting, and more. Emily has a contagious spirit for all the topics we discuss, but especially Jesus, politics, and history. I think you’ll enjoy hearing her sound and principled thoughts, ideas, and values. As you listen to Part 1, please bear with the audio at around the 22 through 25 minutes mark. As you know, technology can be tricky, but Emily shares wise advice and experiences, so I hope you’ll adjust your volume where needed and hear the eternal value in our conversation. -------------------------------------------------INTERVIEW ------------------------------------------------ I thoroughly enjoyed this conversation with Emily and I hope you did, as well. I invite you to listen next week as we wrap up the interview with Part 2. You can learn more about Emily or Great American Studies at https://www.greatamericanstudies.com or on Facebook at Great American Studies. https://www.facebook.com/greatamericanstudies/ Emily’s courses are great for home or traditionally educated students, as well as parents who want to refresh their mind on history learned long ago. I plan to complete her course with my family soon. Father God, you have given us so much. You alone are good, holy, sovereign, and always present. We need You so much more than we can comprehend. Help us see You in each moment of our days. Help us to seek Your face as we navigate this world. May we live in sync with Your values and seek Your wisdom before our own or that of this world. May we please You with our thoughts, actions, and words because they are a reflection of Yours. Help us to view history with your heart and eyes and a gratitude for all You have allowed. Cause us to get involved where you call or support others You put in place for such a time as this. May our lives honor and reflect You to a world with blind eyes. We love You, Lord. Help the world see You within us and move ever closer to You. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. As always, please feel free to let me know if you have specific questions I may be able to answer or if you need information or encouragement about a specific topic related to the podcast or interviews. You can reach me at info@terrihitt.com. Thank you for listening to this podcast. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 093 - Understanding American History - Interview with Emily Hladik - Part 1 Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #093 – Interview with Emily Hladik – Understanding American History – Part 1 Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Over the last several weeks, I’ve interviewed several wise and knowledgeable leaders in the homeschool industry. The key is that they are not only able to assist in the world of home education, but love Jesus. The wisdom and understanding they share about knowing children, giving them a full and rich education, and raising them to know and honor Jesus is what sets them apart. I’m excited to introduce another new guest on the podcast today. Emily Hladik is a wife, a follower of Jesus, and a homeschool mother who shares her passion for truth through eLearning to reach the next generation of American patriots. Emily began teaching as an adjunct college instructor of political science and history in 2004 and has a Master of Education and a BA in Political Science and History. She has also served as the Challenge 1 Director in the Classical Conversations community. Emily doesn’t care much for shopping and decorating, but is passionate about Jesus, history, politics, and is the founder and curriculum creator of Great American Studies. I appreciate her directness and wise views on history and what we must do to honor and uphold it in society today. Please join me as we converse about the Lord, politics, history, life, children, parenting, and more. Emily has a contagious spirit for all the topics we discuss, but especially Jesus, politics, and history. I think you’ll enjoy hearing her sound and principled thoughts, ideas, and values. As you listen to Part 1, please bear with the audio at around the 22 through 25 minutes mark. As you know, technology can be tricky, but Emily shares wise advice and experiences, so I hope you’ll adjust your volume where needed and hear the eternal value in our conversation. -------------------------------------------------INTERVIEW ------------------------------------------------ I thoroughly enjoyed this conversation with Emily and I hope you did, as well. I invite you to listen next week as we wrap up the interview with Part 2. You can learn more about Emily or Great American Studies at https://www.greatamericanstudies.com or on Facebook at Great American Studies. https://www.facebook.com/greatamericanstudies/ Emily’s courses are great for home or traditionally educated students, as well as parents who want to refresh their mind on history learned long ago. I plan to complete her course with my family soon. Father God, you have given us so much. You alone are good, holy, sovereign, and always present. We need You so much more than we can comprehend. Help us see You in each moment of our days. Help us to seek Your face as we navigate this world. May we live in sync with Your values and seek Your wisdom before our own or that of this world. May we please You with our thoughts, actions, and words because they are a reflection of Yours. Help us to view history with your heart and eyes and a gratitude for all You have allowed. Cause us to get involved where you call or support others You put in place for such a time as this. May our lives honor and reflect You to a world with blind eyes. We love You, Lord. Help the world see You within us and move ever closer to You. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. As always, please feel free to let me know if you have specific questions I may be able to answer or if you need information or encouragement about a specific topic related to the podcast or interviews. You can reach me at info@terrihitt.com . Thank you for listening to this podcast. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. https://www.facebook.com/greatamericanstudies/ https://www.greatamericanstudies.com

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 122 - Do You Know How to Play With Your Kids? Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 122 – Do You Know How to Play With Your Kids? Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast gives you the awareness and tools you need to STOP being a GOOD mom and BECOME the GODLY mom God entrusts you to be. Then you will be the SET-APART woman PURPOSELY raising children to chase CHRIST over culture. Just a quick reminder as we start, if you enjoy Purposed Parent Connected Child podcast episodes, would you please share this episode or others with a friend or family member? When you graciously take a moment to do that, and leave a rating or review at Apple Podcast, you are ensuring that others will find the podcast. When you do, you’re helping affect generations for Jesus. Now on to this episode that raises an important question…Do you Know How to Play With Your Kids? My Grandma Smith had the greatest ability to make me laugh. I remember going to her house was a treat I looked forward to. I always knew she’d do something funny or sit on the floor and tickle me. She simply acted like a kid while still maintaining authority. I always felt safe and loved with her. I often think of Grandma when I play with my kids. I have to ask…have you played today? One of the perks of being a mom is recognizing and cherishing the ability to keep childlike qualities – or rediscover the inner child alive in our heart. As for me, I’ve never lost the ability to intertwine the little girl still living inside with the adult me. Maybe it’s because God created me with a strong imagination, but I also like to think that I just enjoy connection. Like Grandma seemed to with me. After parenting two sets of children over two generations, I’ve had an extended period of playtime. In fact, my siblings were five and six years younger than me, and I had a lot of experience playing with my sister before I ever became a mom at the age of eighteen. Numerous memories are easily brought to mind when I think back over the years I’ve enjoyed playing with kids. When my first child, my daughter Jaime was almost two, I was at a local park with her and two children I cared for at the time. With three children under two years old, I had to be creative in the way I kept them all together and entertained. On that particular day in the park, we mastered the slide over and over. The kids were gleeful as I had them lined up in front of me, each securing their little arms around the waist of the child in front of them. My legs were wrapped around everyone as we slid towards the bottom. When my first set of kids were growing up, I remember playing baseball with my son. Now I have to state that I’m one of the most athletically-challenged people in the world. Athleticism is not a gift God chose for me. So when I say I played baseball, please know that it shows the depth of love I have for my boy. It also shows his patience with me. I remember times of throwing pitches for Brandon to practice hitting, then switching places and letting him practice pitching to me. That was a sacrifice! I’ve never been able to catch any ball, whether it be small like a baseball or a large kickball. Instead of spreading my arms out to gracefully receive the ball, I usually duck my head and scream. But guess what? Playing ball with my son was such a joy. In fact, he’s the only person who can throw a pitch I can hit. Somehow, he knew exactly how to throw that ball in a way I trusted and could connect with. I hope he felt as special as I did in those moments. There were also other play times with my kids using typical childhood toys, as well as playing dress-up, Play Doh, drawing or coloring, dancing, and acting. What are some of the ways you play with your children? Or your grandchildren? My youngest daughter and I still have a date for play time daily. It’s what she looks forward to most each day. When I keep my word to place her above anything else during the time we spend together, joy radiates from her eyes and movements. If you are actively pursuing play as a way to teach and connect, I applaud you. Then I say, “keep on.” When we enjoy playing with our children, we understand that we are building connection that can’t be created any other way. The benefits of playing with our children are high. As I stated earlier, not only do we experience a deeper bonding and attachment experience, but our children receive benefits such as a wider vocabulary, patience, trust, resilience, strengthened social skills, and higher cognitive development. Despite the love of electronics in this day and age, I say ditch those and find other ways to play such as the following: Toys – From the earliest of time with your child, you can play with toys together. I’m also going to place books and music in this category, and for every age group. Lullabies and Christian music are especially sweet. Books are a means of making time together special Sitting together as you read lends a special closeness and connection from an early age, plus reaps many of the benefits I spoke of earlier. Reading to your child often and regularly also helps them to be better prepared and more eager to read to you as time progresses. Letting yourself simply have fun with baby toys and age-appropriate toys with your child will expand creativity for you both. Physical Play – While building relationship and connection, you’re also building muscles, coordination, and strength. Outdoor Play – This can include physical play, as well as walks and nature studies. These activities allow both parent and child to experience fresh air, sunshine, appreciation, curiosity, imagination, and time together. Pretend Play – Even more imagination abounds with pretend play, which also builds curiosity, connection, and joy. Enjoy yourself. Let yourself be whatever age your child is. Or let yourself become an imaginary friend, creature, or whatever the situation calls for. Simply have fun. Through play, children learn, reduce stress, build connection with you, release fears, and work out problems. Through this process, parents are often alerted to thoughts and interests they may not have been made aware of yet. As my daughter and I play, I can tell things she’s concerned about or thinking. I also see how she responds to those thoughts or feelings through the way she has characters respond and react. Children are wired to play. So were you once. In fact, I bet you still are, even if you don’t realize it. When kids are able to play in early years, essential neural pathways are created that impact future learning. When kids experience sensory rich play and creative exploration, their time spent playing with you becomes more than recreation, and should be recognized as an investment in a critical piece of childhood development. For a more joyful childhood and future adult life, invest in playtime with your children. Mind, body, and spirit are transformed through such a simple act. If you think you don’t have time, I say you can’t afford to neglect making the time. If you’re not used to playing, let me list a few suggestions you might enjoy. Hearing them might spur your mind to come up with even more. Reading is very important at any age. Reading together, even when your kids are older is a fabulous bonding experience. As a homeschool mom, this is one of my favorite tips. Even when my girls were teens we read together. We still do daily when we sit to read the Bible together. Walking is also an easy activity to enjoy together. My middle daughter and I enjoy this activity year round. We’re outside together unless the weather makes it impossible. Through this simple act, we share so many stories and plans. We share our heart, give and hear advice, and simply enjoy one another. Our laughter is so full we’re often doubled over, barely able to walk, and that incredible connection strengthens our bond. You can also observe nature with your children. This activity is an easy way to begin conversations and talk about the Lord as you observe His creation, the seasons, or the weather. If you’re looking for more age-based suggestions, I’ll list a few. Again, this is a short list to get you thinking about what might be enjoyed together in your home. Six months – Recite short rhymes, prayers, condensed Bible stories, sing, play Peek-A-Boo, Pat-A-Cake, find your ears, nose, etc. Cover toys with a cloth or blanket and uncover to find. Nine months – Play imitation and “find it” games Twelve months – Fill containers or play instruments (anything from a pot and lid to an empty paper towel roll can become an instrument or you may invest in age appropriate instruments. Eighteen months – Memory games with music, cards, or toys. Sorting or matching games are also fun. Two to Three years – Music with movement, silly dances, Follow the Leader, Dress-up, Dolls, Play Doh Four to Seven Years – Simon Says, Climbing activities (yes, you can climb, too), Parks, play house, dolls, or ball. Eight to Twelve Years – Puzzles, mazes, word finds, crossword puzzles, strategy games, physical games Thirteen to Seventeen – Musical Instruments, Dancing, Acting, Sports All of these are activities that you can do with your child, not just watch them participate. Throughout the lifetime of your child, play is one of the best investments you can make for both of you. Skills, mental and emotional health, and connection are shaped grown, and maintained through this remarkably simple activity. You know your children. Find what they enjoy and jump in with them. Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for Your mighty presence in this world, our lives, and in our heart through the Holy Spirit alive in us. We need Your guidance and leadership. Help us to shine You. Help us to connect with our children in ways that merge the beautiful interests and talents You crafted into them and all You have purposed within us. Help us enjoy the youthfulness, imagination, and love You have placed within us. Let us recognize all the gifts You have in store for us as we invest in time with You and our family. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Raising children is challenging. No one has all the answers because each child is unique as are parenting styles and family dynamics. By connecting with and knowing your children as you maintain purposed growth in Christ, you will be better prepared for any situation you face. That’s why you hear me share about the Set-Apart Collective in this podcast. I work with professionals who care about making Jesus known to their children. Are you a high-achieving woman who loves Jesus, but is so busy with the rush of work and daily life that you feel like you’re being drained like the water in your bathtub? Do you yearn to get closer to Jesus and show Him to your kids so you will create a love that will last into eternity? The desire is there, but your days spiral out of control before you even think about opening your Bible. Do you ever stop to think that you are the first Jesus your child will see? Let me remind you there is hope. There is a way you can be equipped to raise kids who chase Christ over culture. If you want a connected relationship with Christ and your children that leads them to your side and His feet, instead of them seeking validation from peers, I have an 8-step program to move you from frustrated to fulfilled. I will show you how to reflect Jesus in a way that attracts your family to a connected relationship that lasts into eternity. Remember, godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset you carry. If you don’t want peers and culture to be the main influence over your child, if you desire to parent to “prepare” your child for eternity with Christ, not repair your relationship with them, the Set-Apart Collective will arm you with a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You’ll also deepen your identity in Christ so you can mentor the way for your children to do the same. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family and you will have the tools to raise set apart kids as you parent the heart, not simply the behavior. Does this sound like a lifeline to help you be that set-apart mom God has entrusted you to be? Visit terrihitt.com/coaching and click the link for a free, no obligation conversation call with me. This is a strategic call where I will hear your biggest struggle and show you how to turn it into a blessing that will bring you closer to Christ and your children. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. Time is short. Make yours matter for eternity. One last thing to remember - if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection with your children and Christ. Previous Next

Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #007 – Equipping Children Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed and thrilled to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. The topic close to my heart today is one that is deeply personal. More importantly, it’s special to God. This episode is about children and those who influence them. Although I realize I’m not the only mother in the world who has raised two separate families, I know it’s definitely not the norm. Some people consider us crazy; some admire us and lift us to reside on a pedestal of benevolence. Honestly, we are neither of those. The fact is that two of our children were brought to us biologically. Two of them were brought to us through adoption. Just as women achieve pregnancy and deliver babies through different ways, our family was built by two methods and stretched over a longer period of time than most. It’s honestly that simple. Yet, I still consider my family a miracle and our story one that only God can author. But then, that’s true of all of us. The most urgent desire I have in my heart after raising one set of children and now raising the next, is the absolute necessity of bringing our children up to know, love, and respect the Lord and helping other mothers to understand that importance. To raise our children to love and honor Jesus and to desire to grow their own relationship with Him is the best gift we can give them and the most important job we have. I have found that those of us who claim to be Christians usually want to raise Christian children. But the truth is that many of us depend on the church to raise our child to know God and don’t take active steps at home to nurture the relationship we have with the Lord, let alone foster the growth of our children in Him. Many of us have also been deceived into thinking that once our child accepts Christ as Savior that we don’t have to be as concerned about our child. Both are dangerously blinding us with deceit straight from Satan. How do I know this happens? It happened to me as a young, naive new Christian mother. I had good intentions, but lacked the wisdom I needed to grow and sufficiently nurture my own walk, let alone the heart journey of my children. Our walk was not the straight path I wish it would have been, although I honestly loved the Lord. I’ve also heard stories from others who have similar testimonies to share. Many children from Christian families attend church functions anywhere from one to five hours per week. Families may go to Sunday school and church on Sunday mornings, then either go back to church Sunday night or attend a church function on Wednesday evening, but in our active and fast-paced world, fewer children attend that often. Many churches have stopped Sunday evening services and many children have school or personal activities on Wednesday evenings. Even if children were attending activities at the church at all of the mentioned times, simply being at the church does not make them a growing Christian. You absolutely cannot nurture and sustain a close relationship with Christ on a few hours a week. A true relationship with God starts through a personal relationship with Christ and continues to grow and thrive in the home. It must be nurtured throughout each day. Children learn best when they see a beautiful and godly relationship with Jesus modeled daily in every action, reaction, and interaction they see their parents make. Even our mistakes can draw them nearer to God as they see the ways grace-filled and influenced parents handle living in this broken world. Unless we purposely fix our minds on living with eternal perspective, this world, our pride and lusts, and Satan will distract us with anything to pull us away from Christ. John 10:10 warns, “The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.” When I became a Christian, I foolishly believed that my life would automatically be different, but just as everything else in life, that’s actually when the real work began. I had to learn about releasing my life to the One I now professed to follow. In the meantime, my children were maturing quickly and I missed opportunities to nurture them in and through Jesus the way I should have. It is vitally important to me to teach mothers the importance of maturing your fellowship with Jesus so that He will naturally be breathed into the lives of your precious children from the very beginning. You will never regret it. Seeking the Lord and growing our relationship with Jesus should be as much a part of our existence as breathing. Just as we awaken each day with a craving for food and drink, our mind should instinctively desire Him and automatically draw to fellowship with Him throughout each day. I think of the hymn, “He Lives,” by Alan Jackson. Here are a few of the words. “He lives! He lives! Christ Jesus lives today! He walks with me and talks with me along life’s narrow way. He lives! He lives! Salvation to impart! You ask me how I know He lives. He lives within my heart.” We are meant to walk and talk with Jesus through an internal dialogue that beautifully draws us nearer to Him. Jesus knows my innermost thoughts. He knows yours. He intimately cares about everything concerning me and concerning you. No matter where you are in your faith journey, if you have accepted Jesus as your Savior, the Holy Spirit is living within you to guide and move you to a deeper walk with Him. We create distance in our relationship with Jesus just as we do with people in our lives. If we don’t welcome Him and nurture the relationship, it will fade. Jesus won’t leave us, but we can drift away from Him. To grow and sustain our Christian walk, we have to be intentional and not let distractions take the place of commitment, just like with every relationship in our life. Now let’s think about God’s word. When we read the Bible, we clearly see people who were determined to direct their own lives while making unwise choices that drew them away from God. Let’s use the very first example of shattered lives in the Bible as we discuss how cleverly the serpent (Satan) tricked Eve. It’s so easy for us to look back at her and think of Eve as foolish. She (and Adam) clearly understood the instructions God had given them. But we also allow subtleties to distract us from living fully in relationship with Jesus daily. Once we have accepted Christ as our Savior, He desires us to allow Him to sit as the Master of our life. It’s easy to say we believe in God and want Him to guide us. It’s harder to actually accept and allow Jesus to transform our life, giving Him direct access to our thoughts, emotions, speech, actions, and attitude. In other words, we are to release everything in our life to Him. In the beginning, Adam and Eve lived in intimate communion with God. He fulfilled their every need, giving them good and perfect gifts. They had peace of mind and deep joy. Gratitude filled their lives. They did not live with hazy minds tinged by lies or twisted truths - until they disobeyed. Then, they became estranged from God and the intimate bond they shared was severed. 2 Corinthians 11:3 states, “But I am afraid that, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds will be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ.” We make the same foolish choices day after day. Either we follow our fleshly and selfish desires or we allow Satan to move in and destroy the good and perfect plans God has established for those of us who love Him. James 1:12-17 is a longer passage, but bear with me as I read the important truths contained. “Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” We must not allow anything we think we desire in this world to undermine our growth in Christ. Distractions will always be around us. There is absolutely nothing here on this earth that will ever compare with the beauty of committing to the most important relationship we will ever have and in sharing and teaching Him to our children. The best way we can tell whether we are allowing Jesus to work in and change our hearts is by His promise. Once we have accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior, we are sealed with the Holy Spirit as He takes permanent residence within us as a guarantee of security that we are His. We not only believe His word and promise, but we also begin to see changes in the way we live. Our minds, thoughts, actions, and attitudes begin changing and evolving daily. We die to sin and the grip it once held over us. Of course, we will still be tempted, but the way we face temptation begins to change. Because of Christ, nothing should have a permanent grip on us. Temptation is common to all men, even Jesus, but just as the Lord never sinned, He also provides us a way out of temptation. Temptation alone is not a sin, but succumbing to it is. A true, maturing Christian will hear the voice of Jesus daily, instead of looking for ways to get away with sin. A devoted Christian will also follow the path Jesus sets by example, not just doing whatever activity seems entertaining at the time. As we grow in Christ, as we read His word, we crave more of it. We believe His truths and intentionally find ways to implement His instructions and guidelines in our lives. We desire following Jesus and when we fall into sin or make mistakes, we genuinely repent with a sorrowful heart that yearns for restoration and forgiveness. John 10:7-10 says, “Then Jesus said to them again, “Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” Jesus is our door for eternal life. We are the sheep. He is the shepherd. In Biblical times, the sheep pen had one opening for sheep to enter. The shepherd would herd his flock into the enclosed pen and then actually lie down in the entry so that nothing could get in and the sheep could not get out. Jesus protects us in the same way. When we are His, we are saved from death. We live in intimate communion with Jesus, and are provided with perfect nourishment for our soul. Why is all of this so important when talking about raising children? Because if we are truly committed to seeing our children flourish in their relationship with Jesus, we have to be so in love with Him that He seeps from our soul and spirit. We don’t want to teach our children about Jesus; we want to model a love and relationship so strong that they know Him because they see Him daily through us. We want to be the magnet that draws our children straight to the heart of Jesus. Without our own thriving personal relationship with Him, that will not happen. Let’s stop and consider a few things absolutely vital to our walk with Christ. I believe we should all ask ourselves the following questions. 1. What do I believe about eternity? What I believe directly impacts the life of my precious children. What do I believe? How do I know my belief is true? 2. Am I living my belief? The time I have on this earth is nothing in comparison to eternity. James 4:14 says, “Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” I do not know what the next second will bring, let alone the next day. I have to take responsibility for what I believe. The time is now. 3. Do I surrender to Jesus daily so that my child will, too? Am I modeling my beliefs? Do I consider my beliefs important enough to make the sacrifice to die to myself daily and allow Christ full access? 4. What do I believe about the eternity of my children? Do my children know Christ yet? 5. Am I doing everything I possibly can to secure the eternity of my children? Do my children see my love for Jesus daily? Do they hear my prayers? Do we pray together? Do I teach them to rely on God? Do they see me read my Bible? Do we also read the Bible together? Do they see me walk the way God instructs in His word? Do they see me repent and change when I fail? Do I apologize to them (or others) when I do wrong? Do I discuss Jesus with my children? Do I walk and talk with Jesus each day and guide my children to do the same? Do I bring Him naturally into conversations so they see my relationship is real and natural? Just as many people take time to contemplate life goals at the beginning of each year, we must reflect on our walk with Christ daily. Life is not simply about us; it should be a reflection of Christ that spreads out to all we connect with, especially our children. They were not given to us as a burden to raise to adulthood, but as a blessing that God considers a heritage. Our children actually belong to God. They are an inheritance from and for Him. We are caretakers for the Lord. While we have His children in our possession, we must make the most of every moment as we prayerfully guide them to know and love the One they will answer to for eternity. If we are not intentionally living with an eternal perspective as we pursue life and parenting, we are making the choice to raise children of and for the world. We need to live set apart from what this world gives and seek what will truly satisfy the souls of our children. We have to purposely allow God to work through us to intimately know and understand each of our children. We must desire and allow Him to provide what they need to live a life that shines for Him without standing in His way. We must permit God access to our hearts and minds in order for Him to grow us and mold us into the parents our children require so they may be uniquely set apart in this world. True Christian-centered parenting looks and feels unique because we believe, understand, and respect that His children are created in His image for Him. We live to honor Him with those He has lovingly and perfectly entrusted to us. What pleasure we will share with God when we are blessed to proclaim 3 John 1:4, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” What does living and raising our children to be “set-apart” look like? We should exist in this world as an active member in it, but not reflect the values of this world. Our beliefs and actions should mirror what God instructs in His word. It also means loving our neighbor as ourselves. We don’t judge or criticize those who do not seem to be following God’s truths as He instructs, but we don’t have to condone their beliefs or actions, either. It is possible to lovingly disagree and treat the person with grace and kindness. We need to see each other through the loving eyes of God. As we strive to live in ways that honor God and display Him to our children, the choices we make are critical. We have to honestly assess whether the selections we make daily and the way we spend our precious time respect the guidelines and values God wants us to live by. We should be a mirror for our children to see Jesus clearly, through what and who we are, and do. Luke 18:16 warns us clearly, “But Jesus called to him, saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.” Do not make selfish, ignorant, or naïve choices that will ultimately impede your child’s walk and eternal future with God. Checking the atmosphere of our home is mandatory when we desire to live lives pleasing to God and reflect Him to our children and others around us. It is difficult to control and eradicate some of our unwise choices and habits all at once, but starting with drawing attention to and possibly correcting one at a time will ensure that we are drawing nearer to the life God desires for us and our family. Here are some questions to begin with. 1. Does my speech reflect the way I would speak to God if He were sitting with me? He is, by the way. I just can’t see Him. James 3:10-11 says, “from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way. Does a fountain send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water?” 2. Do my actions represent the way Jesus would handle the joys and distresses of this life? 3. Are my activities pleasing to God? 4. Do my friends share my desire to know and please God more deeply? Are they reflecting Him in their lives, as well? 5. Does the way I dress reflect a modest and godly woman secure in the love my Father has for me? 6. Do I have to hide my occupation or is it a worthy use of my time to provide for my family? 7. Does the music I listen to enable my speech and values to be worthy of what God desires for me? Does it enable my speech and actions to stand against what God word requires of me as I grow my walk with Him? Should I be embarrassed for God to hear me sing the lyrics? 8. Does the entertainment I pay to see or participate in glorify God? Does the entertainment in my home show my children how important God is in our lives? 9. Do the books and magazines I read reflect the values and language God desires? Do the messages they lead me to believe stand against scripture? 10. Do the podcasts I listen to reflect values God desires me to learn and possess? 11. Do I spend more time in God’s Holy word than I do on social media? Do I intentionally spend time with my children to teach them to love God and learn His word? Proverbs 24:3 teaches, “By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established.” It can be painful to go through this checklist. Life in this world does anything but guide us into the Father’s arms. We will never live a perfect life on earth, but we can strive to live as closely to the way God calls us as possible. We always have more ways we can purposely erase the influences of all this life leads us to believe we need. Strive to lean more closely into God’s beautiful desires for us instead. John 15:9-11 promises, “Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.” Psalm 90:12 instructs, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” As we grow more Christlike, we desire Him even more. People begin to see the Lord through us and are drawn to become more like Him themselves. As we experience sweet fellowship with Jesus and savor the joy we receive when our children walk closely with Him, the attraction to the distractions in this world fade. Matthew 13:44 explains it well; “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.” May we all live with the joy, hope, and peace that only Jesus can provide and give our children the treasure of the kingdom of heaven so they can live a lifetime of sweet closeness with their Savior, Jesus Christ. Thank you so much for listening to the Live With Eternal Perspective podcast. God has impressed so much on my heart to share. Living with an eternal perspective affects absolutely everything in my life. I am thrilled to delve into different areas with you. Since everything affects our eternity, we will have a lot to discuss! I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you found value in this podcast, please subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. I also encourage you to leave a review. In order for others to be able to find this podcast, I will need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift Live With Eternal Perspective higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Thank you again for sharing part of your day with me. Until next time, keep looking Upward and finding new ways to live with an Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 007 Equipping Children Listen to Episode Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #007 – Equipping Children Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed and thrilled to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. The topic close to my heart today is one that is deeply personal. More importantly, it’s special to God. This episode is about children and those who influence them. Although I realize I’m not the only mother in the world who has raised two separate families, I know it’s definitely not the norm. Some people consider us crazy; some admire us and lift us to reside on a pedestal of benevolence. Honestly, we are neither of those. The fact is that two of our children were brought to us biologically. Two of them were brought to us through adoption. Just as women achieve pregnancy and deliver babies through different ways, our family was built by two methods and stretched over a longer period of time than most. It’s honestly that simple. Yet, I still consider my family a miracle and our story one that only God can author. But then, that’s true of all of us. The most urgent desire I have in my heart after raising one set of children and now raising the next, is the absolute necessity of bringing our children up to know, love, and respect the Lord and helping other mothers to understand that importance. To raise our children to love and honor Jesus and to desire to grow their own relationship with Him is the best gift we can give them and the most important job we have. I have found that those of us who claim to be Christians usually want to raise Christian children. But the truth is that many of us depend on the church to raise our child to know God and don’t take active steps at home to nurture the relationship we have with the Lord, let alone foster the growth of our children in Him. Many of us have also been deceived into thinking that once our child accepts Christ as Savior that we don’t have to be as concerned about our child. Both are dangerously blinding us with deceit straight from Satan. How do I know this happens? It happened to me as a young, naive new Christian mother. I had good intentions, but lacked the wisdom I needed to grow and sufficiently nurture my own walk, let alone the heart journey of my children. Our walk was not the straight path I wish it would have been, although I honestly loved the Lord. I’ve also heard stories from others who have similar testimonies to share. Many children from Christian families attend church functions anywhere from one to five hours per week. Families may go to Sunday school and church on Sunday mornings, then either go back to church Sunday night or attend a church function on Wednesday evening, but in our active and fast-paced world, fewer children attend that often. Many churches have stopped Sunday evening services and many children have school or personal activities on Wednesday evenings. Even if children were attending activities at the church at all of the mentioned times, simply being at the church does not make them a growing Christian. You absolutely cannot nurture and sustain a close relationship with Christ on a few hours a week. A true relationship with God starts through a personal relationship with Christ and continues to grow and thrive in the home. It must be nurtured throughout each day. Children learn best when they see a beautiful and godly relationship with Jesus modeled daily in every action, reaction, and interaction they see their parents make. Even our mistakes can draw them nearer to God as they see the ways grace-filled and influenced parents handle living in this broken world. Unless we purposely fix our minds on living with eternal perspective, this world, our pride and lusts, and Satan will distract us with anything to pull us away from Christ. John 10:10 warns, “The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.” When I became a Christian, I foolishly believed that my life would automatically be different, but just as everything else in life, that’s actually when the real work began. I had to learn about releasing my life to the One I now professed to follow. In the meantime, my children were maturing quickly and I missed opportunities to nurture them in and through Jesus the way I should have. It is vitally important to me to teach mothers the importance of maturing your fellowship with Jesus so that He will naturally be breathed into the lives of your precious children from the very beginning. You will never regret it. Seeking the Lord and growing our relationship with Jesus should be as much a part of our existence as breathing. Just as we awaken each day with a craving for food and drink, our mind should instinctively desire Him and automatically draw to fellowship with Him throughout each day. I think of the hymn, “He Lives,” by Alan Jackson. Here are a few of the words. “He lives! He lives! Christ Jesus lives today! He walks with me and talks with me along life’s narrow way. He lives! He lives! Salvation to impart! You ask me how I know He lives. He lives within my heart.” We are meant to walk and talk with Jesus through an internal dialogue that beautifully draws us nearer to Him. Jesus knows my innermost thoughts. He knows yours. He intimately cares about everything concerning me and concerning you. No matter where you are in your faith journey, if you have accepted Jesus as your Savior, the Holy Spirit is living within you to guide and move you to a deeper walk with Him. We create distance in our relationship with Jesus just as we do with people in our lives. If we don’t welcome Him and nurture the relationship, it will fade. Jesus won’t leave us, but we can drift away from Him. To grow and sustain our Christian walk, we have to be intentional and not let distractions take the place of commitment, just like with every relationship in our life. Now let’s think about God’s word. When we read the Bible, we clearly see people who were determined to direct their own lives while making unwise choices that drew them away from God. Let’s use the very first example of shattered lives in the Bible as we discuss how cleverly the serpent (Satan) tricked Eve. It’s so easy for us to look back at her and think of Eve as foolish. She (and Adam) clearly understood the instructions God had given them. But we also allow subtleties to distract us from living fully in relationship with Jesus daily. Once we have accepted Christ as our Savior, He desires us to allow Him to sit as the Master of our life. It’s easy to say we believe in God and want Him to guide us. It’s harder to actually accept and allow Jesus to transform our life, giving Him direct access to our thoughts, emotions, speech, actions, and attitude. In other words, we are to release everything in our life to Him. In the beginning, Adam and Eve lived in intimate communion with God. He fulfilled their every need, giving them good and perfect gifts. They had peace of mind and deep joy. Gratitude filled their lives. They did not live with hazy minds tinged by lies or twisted truths - until they disobeyed. Then, they became estranged from God and the intimate bond they shared was severed. 2 Corinthians 11:3 states, “But I am afraid that, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds will be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ.” We make the same foolish choices day after day. Either we follow our fleshly and selfish desires or we allow Satan to move in and destroy the good and perfect plans God has established for those of us who love Him. James 1:12-17 is a longer passage, but bear with me as I read the important truths contained. “Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” We must not allow anything we think we desire in this world to undermine our growth in Christ. Distractions will always be around us. There is absolutely nothing here on this earth that will ever compare with the beauty of committing to the most important relationship we will ever have and in sharing and teaching Him to our children. The best way we can tell whether we are allowing Jesus to work in and change our hearts is by His promise. Once we have accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior, we are sealed with the Holy Spirit as He takes permanent residence within us as a guarantee of security that we are His. We not only believe His word and promise, but we also begin to see changes in the way we live. Our minds, thoughts, actions, and attitudes begin changing and evolving daily. We die to sin and the grip it once held over us. Of course, we will still be tempted, but the way we face temptation begins to change. Because of Christ, nothing should have a permanent grip on us. Temptation is common to all men, even Jesus, but just as the Lord never sinned, He also provides us a way out of temptation. Temptation alone is not a sin, but succumbing to it is. A true, maturing Christian will hear the voice of Jesus daily, instead of looking for ways to get away with sin. A devoted Christian will also follow the path Jesus sets by example, not just doing whatever activity seems entertaining at the time. As we grow in Christ, as we read His word, we crave more of it. We believe His truths and intentionally find ways to implement His instructions and guidelines in our lives. We desire following Jesus and when we fall into sin or make mistakes, we genuinely repent with a sorrowful heart that yearns for restoration and forgiveness. John 10:7-10 says, “Then Jesus said to them again, “Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” Jesus is our door for eternal life. We are the sheep. He is the shepherd. In Biblical times, the sheep pen had one opening for sheep to enter. The shepherd would herd his flock into the enclosed pen and then actually lie down in the entry so that nothing could get in and the sheep could not get out. Jesus protects us in the same way. When we are His, we are saved from death. We live in intimate communion with Jesus, and are provided with perfect nourishment for our soul. Why is all of this so important when talking about raising children? Because if we are truly committed to seeing our children flourish in their relationship with Jesus, we have to be so in love with Him that He seeps from our soul and spirit. We don’t want to teach our children about Jesus; we want to model a love and relationship so strong that they know Him because they see Him daily through us. We want to be the magnet that draws our children straight to the heart of Jesus. Without our own thriving personal relationship with Him, that will not happen. Let’s stop and consider a few things absolutely vital to our walk with Christ. I believe we should all ask ourselves the following questions. 1. What do I believe about eternity? What I believe directly impacts the life of my precious children. What do I believe? How do I know my belief is true? 2. Am I living my belief? The time I have on this earth is nothing in comparison to eternity. James 4:14 says, “Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” I do not know what the next second will bring, let alone the next day. I have to take responsibility for what I believe. The time is now. 3. Do I surrender to Jesus daily so that my child will, too? Am I modeling my beliefs? Do I consider my beliefs important enough to make the sacrifice to die to myself daily and allow Christ full access? 4. What do I believe about the eternity of my children? Do my children know Christ yet? 5. Am I doing everything I possibly can to secure the eternity of my children? Do my children see my love for Jesus daily? Do they hear my prayers? Do we pray together? Do I teach them to rely on God? Do they see me read my Bible? Do we also read the Bible together? Do they see me walk the way God instructs in His word? Do they see me repent and change when I fail? Do I apologize to them (or others) when I do wrong? Do I discuss Jesus with my children? Do I walk and talk with Jesus each day and guide my children to do the same? Do I bring Him naturally into conversations so they see my relationship is real and natural? Just as many people take time to contemplate life goals at the beginning of each year, we must reflect on our walk with Christ daily. Life is not simply about us; it should be a reflection of Christ that spreads out to all we connect with, especially our children. They were not given to us as a burden to raise to adulthood, but as a blessing that God considers a heritage. Our children actually belong to God. They are an inheritance from and for Him. We are caretakers for the Lord. While we have His children in our possession, we must make the most of every moment as we prayerfully guide them to know and love the One they will answer to for eternity. If we are not intentionally living with an eternal perspective as we pursue life and parenting, we are making the choice to raise children of and for the world. We need to live set apart from what this world gives and seek what will truly satisfy the souls of our children. We have to purposely allow God to work through us to intimately know and understand each of our children. We must desire and allow Him to provide what they need to live a life that shines for Him without standing in His way. We must permit God access to our hearts and minds in order for Him to grow us and mold us into the parents our children require so they may be uniquely set apart in this world. True Christian-centered parenting looks and feels unique because we believe, understand, and respect that His children are created in His image for Him. We live to honor Him with those He has lovingly and perfectly entrusted to us. What pleasure we will share with God when we are blessed to proclaim 3 John 1:4, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” What does living and raising our children to be “set-apart” look like? We should exist in this world as an active member in it, but not reflect the values of this world. Our beliefs and actions should mirror what God instructs in His word. It also means loving our neighbor as ourselves. We don’t judge or criticize those who do not seem to be following God’s truths as He instructs, but we don’t have to condone their beliefs or actions, either. It is possible to lovingly disagree and treat the person with grace and kindness. We need to see each other through the loving eyes of God. As we strive to live in ways that honor God and display Him to our children, the choices we make are critical. We have to honestly assess whether the selections we make daily and the way we spend our precious time respect the guidelines and values God wants us to live by. We should be a mirror for our children to see Jesus clearly, through what and who we are, and do. Luke 18:16 warns us clearly, “But Jesus called to him, saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.” Do not make selfish, ignorant, or naïve choices that will ultimately impede your child’s walk and eternal future with God. Checking the atmosphere of our home is mandatory when we desire to live lives pleasing to God and reflect Him to our children and others around us. It is difficult to control and eradicate some of our unwise choices and habits all at once, but starting with drawing attention to and possibly correcting one at a time will ensure that we are drawing nearer to the life God desires for us and our family. Here are some questions to begin with. 1. Does my speech reflect the way I would speak to God if He were sitting with me? He is, by the way. I just can’t see Him. James 3:10-11 says, “from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way. Does a fountain send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water?” 2. Do my actions represent the way Jesus would handle the joys and distresses of this life? 3. Are my activities pleasing to God? 4. Do my friends share my desire to know and please God more deeply? Are they reflecting Him in their lives, as well? 5. Does the way I dress reflect a modest and godly woman secure in the love my Father has for me? 6. Do I have to hide my occupation or is it a worthy use of my time to provide for my family? 7. Does the music I listen to enable my speech and values to be worthy of what God desires for me? Does it enable my speech and actions to stand against what God word requires of me as I grow my walk with Him? Should I be embarrassed for God to hear me sing the lyrics? 8. Does the entertainment I pay to see or participate in glorify God? Does the entertainment in my home show my children how important God is in our lives? 9. Do the books and magazines I read reflect the values and language God desires? Do the messages they lead me to believe stand against scripture? 10. Do the podcasts I listen to reflect values God desires me to learn and possess? 11. Do I spend more time in God’s Holy word than I do on social media? Do I intentionally spend time with my children to teach them to love God and learn His word? Proverbs 24:3 teaches, “By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established.” It can be painful to go through this checklist. Life in this world does anything but guide us into the Father’s arms. We will never live a perfect life on earth, but we can strive to live as closely to the way God calls us as possible. We always have more ways we can purposely erase the influences of all this life leads us to believe we need. Strive to lean more closely into God’s beautiful desires for us instead. John 15:9-11 promises, “Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.” Psalm 90:12 instructs, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” As we grow more Christlike, we desire Him even more. People begin to see the Lord through us and are drawn to become more like Him themselves. As we experience sweet fellowship with Jesus and savor the joy we receive when our children walk closely with Him, the attraction to the distractions in this world fade. Matthew 13:44 explains it well; “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.” May we all live with the joy, hope, and peace that only Jesus can provide and give our children the treasure of the kingdom of heaven so they can live a lifetime of sweet closeness with their Savior, Jesus Christ. Thank you so much for listening to the Live With Eternal Perspective podcast. God has impressed so much on my heart to share. Living with an eternal perspective affects absolutely everything in my life. I am thrilled to delve into different areas with you. Since everything affects our eternity, we will have a lot to discuss! I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you found value in this podcast, please subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. I also encourage you to leave a review. In order for others to be able to find this podcast, I will need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift Live With Eternal Perspective higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Thank you again for sharing part of your day with me. Until next time, keep looking Upward and finding new ways to live with an Eternal Perspective.

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 092 - The Master Blueprint: Exploring the Life of Jesus and What it Means for You and Your Family Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 092 – The Master Blueprint: Exploring the Life of Jesus and What It Means for You and Your Family Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast deepens your walk with Jesus and your children, equipping you to become a set-apart woman and mother. Jesus . Just saying the name of my Savior name brings me peace , joy , and assurance . Try it. Stop and say His name . Jesus . What feelings or emotions does speaking His name bring to you? I wish we knew more about the life of Jesus from Bible. Wouldn’t It be a beautiful blessing to know more of the day to day moments of His childhood? How about when He was going through puberty? How did He act, what did He think? How did He treat His parents, His siblings? We know Jesus was fully God and yet fully man. Surely, He wrestled with insecurities and fears, or wondered about His future? Or did He? As fixed as He was on the Father, I believe He led a glorious life that reflected how to function with godliness in this world. Although it would be wonderful to know even more details about the life of Jesus, I trust that God gave us exactly what we need to know. While I wish there were more detailed accounts of the life of Jesus, I believe we have just what we need to construct a blueprint of the life Jesus lived here on earth. The first place we should start to know more about Christ is the Bible. My favorite books to read are usually found in the New Testament. With the exception of Genesis, which is the standard for how God wants us to live, I think most people might agree that New Testament books are easier to understand and more enjoyable to read overall. That being said, compare what I just stated with foods. Isn’t it much more enticing to eat desserts instead of the main course? Or, if you’re not really into sweets, at least you may agree that fruits carry more interest than vegetables. Now let’s compare the Bible to these thoughts about foods. While the New Testament, the story of Jesus, and how our lives are changed because of Him is easier and more interesting for many to read, we still need the foundation and direction found in the Old Testament. In fact, it has been said that the Old Testament is the blueprint , while the New Testament is the building . Why? Blueprints show the inner workings of what is to be built . A blueprint explains what is being constructed . The blueprint exposes what is to come . The Old Testament is God’s blueprint to us. Think about this amazing truth I’m about to share. The Old Testament was the beautiful Scripture Jesus Himself read and used. For us, the Words in the Old Testament set a foundation and expectation for what was to come . The Old Testament also exposes problems and promises . Without these truths and prophecies , we cannot understand God’s heart or the healing that is to be offered ; we can’t begin to fathom the sovereignty and holiness of our God. As important as the entire Bible is, there are major differences between the old and new testaments. Have you ever considered this thought? The Old Testament offers the framework that the New Testament is built upon . God reveals Himself in both testaments; through prophets in the Old Testament, and through Jesus in the New. In the Old Testament, God exposes the depravity of sin and how far it is from His holiness . In the New Testament, we learn the importance of repentance and how far our loving, merciful God will go to set us free from the bondage of sin and death. Jesus revealed that the Old Testament pointed the way to Him . He stressed that He came to fulfill the law , and to set us free from it. However, now that we have the grace and mercy of God to save us through the acts of Christ in the New Testament, we must realize that it is impossible to understand faith, love, grace, or mercy without studying the framework God established for us within the Old Testament . Like a balanced meal with all food groups, we must study both old and new testaments in order to grasp the reality of who God is, what He has done for us, and what is to come . Because of Jesus, we can experience abundant life without fear of death. We can live with assurance that we will stand before Him without shame, with sins cleansed . If you’re a believer and follower of Jesus and have proclaimed Christ as your personal Savior, you can know with certainty that you will one day face Him with joy as He welcomes you into eternity . What a gift! Are you living like one redeemed by the King? In the meantime, we have the blessing of God’s Word to help us envision and understand the life of Jesus in deeper ways. Unless we intentionally use the Bible to study Him, we fail to grasp the fullness of what God offers us through Christ. Earlier I shared that Jesus came for many reasons, yet the most important one was to save us from sin and death. In our human mind, it is impossible to grasp the holiness or forgiveness of Jesus. We don’t understand the richness of His mercy, love, or grace. Many adjectives can describe our Savior, but while using them, we still fail to comprehend exactly what each description means or how it affects us. Today we’ll draw nearer to Jesus and attempt to see Him as a Holy Savior, Best Friend, Comforter, King, and so much more. Why is exploring the life of Jesus so important for you and your family? Jesus changed everything . Without Him, this world, you, and your family would have no hope. You would remain entangled in sin and death. As you absorb more of what the life of Jesus means to you, as you better understand His sacrifices and sufferings, you are more equipped to live a godly life pleasing to our Heavenly Father. Then you’re better able to mentor a godly lifestyle and mindset for your children. As we explore the life of Jesus, I think we need to highlight ten very significant details of His life. 1. Birth – Jesus was born of a virgin. Yes, followers of Christ know this fact. But how often do we think on it? What a miracle! Have you pondered the fact that if Jesus were not born of a virgin, we would not have a sinless Savior? As fully God and man, Jesus had to be born of a virgin overshadowed by God to become fully God and fully human. Also, if Jesus had not been born of a virgin, he would have been born as a descendant of Adam and God’s Word is clear that “in Adam all die.” When you look at the birth of Jesus, you also see that His life fulfilled prophecies proclaimed in the Old Testament. All Scriptures point to Christ, even when they are not specifically prophetic. The law is perfectly kept by Christ, yet all sins of humanity are poured out on Him , proving the law is not the way to righteousness and eternal life, only Christ. The miraculous birth of Jesus fulfilled prophecies and build the foundation for the purpose of His life . 2. Baptism – Jesus was about thirty years old when He was baptized by his relative, John the Baptist. This is the time His ministry began. Although Jesus was holy and righteous, He chose to be baptized to fulfill requirements we needed to see and learn. He chose to be baptized not to turn from sin, as He carried no sin, but to dedicate Himself to fully following God’s will on this earth. He chose to show us the way to live as a follower of God. Now we are able to be baptized into Him as we submit to Christ as Savior. In return, He baptizes us with the Holy Spirit. At the time of Jesus’ baptism, we also learn that Jesus’ act of obedience confirmed His identity as Messiah in three key ways. After Jesus was baptized, we see from Scripture that the Spirit of God descended on Jesus like a dove from heaven. This simple act was a fulfillment of the prophecy in Isaiah 11:2 that the Messiah would have the Spirit of God resting on Him. Also, the voice of God from heaven said after the baptism, "This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased ," which confirmed Jesus' identity as the Son of God . We also have the testimony of John the Baptist, who had been proclaiming that the Messiah was greater than Him. When Jesus came to be baptized, John immediately recognized Jesus as the Lamb of God and the Son of God. The baptism of Jesus showed all three persons of the Trinity at the same time: the Son being baptized, the Holy Spirit descending, and the Father speaking from heaven . The act of baptism confirmed Christ's deity as Jesus perfectly submitted to the will of His Father . 3. Miracles – There are around 37 recorded miracles of Jesus in the Bible. Of course, we know that there were many more unrecorded . In fact, John 20:30-31 says, “Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name .” Likewise, John 21:25 says, “Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written . 4. Teachings – Jesus left the world with many teachings, but two of the most popular that readily come to mind are the Sermon on the Mount and the parables He used. How I wish I had to wisdom to teach with parables the way He did. Jesus caused others to think and assess their life, desires, and motives. He loved each person where they were, but called them to change. He doesn’t want any of us to stay immersed in sin. In fact, He calls us to go and leave our life of sin. 5. Sufferings – In fulfillment of Isaiah 53 and other prophecies, Jesus suffered persecution, was arrested, beaten, and nailed to a cross to die. Jewish leaders evilly handed Him over to a death sentence approved by the Roman leader Pilate. 6. Death – We often hear that Jesus paid the ultimate price. He suffered, was pierced for our transgressions. He cried out as He was crucified and slowly died a painful death. Yet do we really absorb these facts? I think the truth is so far from what we can humanly comprehend. It’s too ugly and barbaric for our minds to really go there. But our heart needs to. Jesus died for you. He died for your husband, your children, those you love, and those you don’t. Christ died for our sins, according to the Scriptures. 7. Burial – After His death, Jesus was embalmed with around seventy-five pounds of spices, and laid alone to rest in a tomb for three days. The miracle was about to happen ! 8. Resurrection – After three days, Jesus conquered death as He rose from the tomb. New Testament records show that many people witnessed His empty tomb. They relayed the miracle that Jesus was seen alive . 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 says, “For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures, and that He was seen by Cephas, then by the twelve. After that He was seen by over five hundred brethren at once, of whom the greater part remain to the present, but some have fallen asleep. After that He was seen by James, then by all the apostles. Then last of all He was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time .” 9. Ascension – After forty days Jesus ascended, leaving with a promise that He would return again (as spoken in Matthew 28, Luke 24, and Acts 1). Praise the Lord for His promise to us ! 10. Predicted Return – Several New Testament teachings write of the promised return of Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 is one example that speaks to this certainty. “But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words .” Jesus gave hope to encourage followers to live for Him, share testimonies and faith, and so they would look forward to the certainty of eternity with Him . What a miraculous gift that we can come to Christ through His abundant grace and love. Because God sent His son, our Savior to earth to be born from a virgin, live as fully God and fully man, and to be humbly raised by a human mother and adoptive father, everyone can relate to Christ. He came for all and all can know Him. Jesus also clearly relayed to us how to live fully for God. His teachings were direct and truthful. He spent His life abiding in and pursuing the Father. As a child, Jesus craved and considered deep understanding, insight, and wisdom from God’s holy Word. He maintained prayerful communication with the Father. Through His teachings, Jesus showed us how to do the same. Jesus was able to converse and consult with temple teachers, even as a preteen. Through this act of dedication and desire for more, He modeled His miraculous ability to absorb and comprehend complex theological questions, answers, and truths. His insight and understanding were clear, concise, and correct. Jesus’ teachings serve as a foundation for our life and relationship with God . Not only do we have access to how Jesus lived through the Word, but we also learn His focus, priorities, and teachings. We can see that He demonstrated the power of God, as well as the heart and hope of our Heavenly Father. Jesus understood that His life purpose was to fulfill Scripture, mentor to us how to live and reach God, and how to deepen faith and relationship with God and others. He also taught how to please our Heavenly Father. Jesus’ life showed us we do not have to fear death . He secured and showed us the way to eternal life, and He asked us to help others do the same. Jesus was a living example of hope, love, mercy, forgiveness, joy, and compassion. He lived on this earth with us as a man, but died in His rightful place as a King who taught us how to find the true treasure in life. When we submit to Him, we find the key to unlock to secrets of our heart and live a fulfilling, godly life that lasts into eternity. Can you see how exploring the life of Jesus means joy , peace , and life for you and your loved ones? Christ came so that we might live abundant lives in humble obedience to the Father. He came so that we could live with assurance and grace . What does that mean for you and your family? What will you do to follow the blueprint of Jesus’s life and make relationship with Him more meaningful for your children and family? Dear gracious and merciful Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us Your Son. We have limited words to express what Your gift means because our human minds cannot fully grasp the depth of Your love. We humbly thank you for giving us eternal life through Jesus. Please guide and guard us as we journey through life. Give us a strong yearning for You and Your ways. Equip us to grow nearer to You moment by moment and show our children how to do the same. Lord, as we ponder the life of Jesus help us to become stronger in our determination to live for you and to live a godly, pleasing life . We ask this in the precious and holy name of Jesus. Amen. Raising children is challenging. No one has all the answers because each child is unique as are parenting styles and family dynamics. By connecting with and knowing your children as you maintain purposed growth in Christ, you will be better prepared for any situation you face. That’s why you hear me share about the Set-Apart Collective in this podcast. Godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset a mother carries. If you don’t want peers and culture to be the main influence over your child, if you desire to parent to “prepare” your child for eternity with Christ, not repair your relationship with them, I have two suggestions. First, consider the Set-Apart Collective. I guarantee this program will deepen your walk with Christ if you let it. You’ll learn a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Jesus and your family. Let me know if you’d like more information on this 8-week program where my heart, mind, and prayers support your walk with Christ and godly parenting growth. Second, like most moms, you may have questions or doubts about the way you’re parenting. I invite you to visit terrihitt.com/coaching and click on the link for a call. This is a private one-on-one complimentary session so that I can get my heart and experience on your needs. We’ll pray together and see what God-led strategy will ensure you stop being a good mother and become a godly parent. This is my gift to you and I have a very limited number of spots. Claim yours today and see the difference purposed parenting for Christ makes in your home as you prepare your children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. It’s true that the parenting days are long, but the years are short. Make both matter for eternity. If you appreciated this episode, would you please rate and review the podcast on Apple or Spotify? It only takes a few minutes and makes a big difference in whether people are able to find the podcast. Also, you and I know that the best reviews are by word of mouth, so please choose a friend to recommend the show to. Imagine the changes we will see in the way mothers parent for Christ if they learn to be intentional, too. Remember, if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will likely sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #048 – Preparing for Christ – Part 2 Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. As it is the end of the year, many worthy organizations are looking for end of year support, and I want to take a moment again today to mention one of my favorite local charities in Kansas City, the “Who Is Carter Foundation.” Did you know that they have established a worldwide project to provide support, treatment options, and resources to those supporting exceptional children with neurological conditions? That project can be found at thebrainpossible.com, and you can learn more about the foundation at whoiscarter.org. Or you can visit either on Instagram. We have personally worked with this organization and truly appreciate their mission and the support they offer. I encourage you to visit their websites to learn more and please, pass the info on to a friend or family member who might benefit from their various services. Last week’s podcast was done in a different format and I am pleased to slow down this week, as well, and read more scripture with you, reflecting on the goodness and qualities of Christ as we continue to prepare our heart and mind to celebrate Jesus this holiday. I pray we continue maturing in new ways and never return to our previous way of daily living as we let the holiness of the season linger and abide in our spirit. Each day is meant to be a new experience that draws us nearer to the Lord, allowing Him to extract more out of us, so that those cleaned areas in our life will be filled by Jesus. As we hear God’s words, I pray that the scriptures will help us consciously stretch ourselves farther, allowing for His holy eternal perspective to rule us daily. Because of Jesus, we can hear the words of God and experience joy, peace, hope, and true love. Without Jesus, there would be no light in this world. God’s love is explained through His One and Only Son. May the delight God sees and shows in His son, with whom He is well-pleased, permeate our hearts as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus and may His light embrace and mold us anew as we absorb the words into our spirit. May each day in the next year, and those to come, be a celebration of Jesus. As we allow Him to work within us and grow our love and obedience for Him, rejoicing in Who He is, and following Him, allowing Him to flow through us becomes a joy we cannot release. Jesus isn’t our Savior. He becomes our everything, as we breathe Him in and exhale His fragrance to the world around us. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will.” What good, pleasing, and perfect plans God has for each of us, His children! His desire is for us to be transformed by renewing our minds through Him. As followers of Jesus, we are called to conform not to this world, but to Christ. It is then that we will joyfully allow ourselves to be living sacrifices for Him daily as we follow His will and ways and discover God’s new and joyous life for us. James 1:27 says, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” God calls us to remain unpolluted by the world by following Him closely and caring for what He does. As we allow Christ access to our mind and heart, we begin to follow His ethical and moral order instead of the value system of this world. True faith carries us to the Father’s heart as we desire and lovingly value and care for what He does. 1 Samuel 16:7 says, “But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." God judges by faith and character, not outward appearance. Only He can accurately judge us because He sees straight into our heart and motives. We must do all we can to improve our inward self so that we fill God with joy when He looks upon us. Psalm 37:23-24 says, “The LORD makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with His hand.” Oh, to give God joy by delighting in Him! If we desire God to protect our steps, it is imperative that we trust and follow Him, then pursue His ways by doing His will with joy. Seek Him before stepping out and heed His warnings and advice. Psalm 32:8 says, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.” God deeply desires to counsel us with His infinite wisdom. His words and Holy Spirit show us the absolute best ways to live and navigate life in this world. Humbly allow Him to instruct and teach with His abiding love and counsel, rather than learning through discipline or heartache from following your own path. Proverbs 16:9 says, “The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.” God has blessed us with life! He wants us to enjoy it and make plans. However, our Father wants us to remember that He has specifically created each of us and placed us here with a beautiful purpose that God wants to complete through us. We must allow Him to direct our heart and mind as we cling to Him in a personal relationship that seeks to know and follow Him more closely daily. Psalm 33:4-5 says, “For the word of the LORD is right and true; He is faithful in all he does. The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of His unfailing love.” God can be trusted all the time and His words are upright and true. People are unreliable, God is not. Our Heavenly Father never changes His character or words, and His promises are always fulfilled in His perfect timing. Proverbs 2:1-6 says, “My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding—indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” We can each access wisdom is one of two ways. Either we have a God-given gift to be used for glorifying and honoring Him and others or we humbly desire and seek it from Him. Wisdom is just the beginning of understanding God’s ways and living in them. After wisdom, we can receive insight and understanding through a close relationship and His word. As we cling to God and consistently request His wisdom, knowledge, and understanding, He will allow us pieces of Him through the gifts. What a reward to be gifted in such areas as the Lord carries! How far we are from Him, yet our access to Him is eternal and living inside us through the Holy Spirit. John 17:1-26 says, “When Jesus had spoken these words, He lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify Your Son that the Son may glorify You, since You have given Him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom You have given Him. And this is eternal life, that they know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. I glorified You on earth, having accomplished the work that You gave Me to do. And now, Father, glorify Me in Your own presence with the glory that I had with You before the world existed. “I have manifested Your name to the people whom You gave me out of the world. Yours they were, and You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word. Now they know that everything that You have given Me is from You. For I have given them the words that You gave me, and they have received them and have come to know in truth that I came from You; and they have believed that You sent Me. I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours. All mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine, and I am glorified in them. And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in Your name, which You have given Me, that they may be one, even as We are one. While I was with them, I kept them in Your name, which You have given Me. I have guarded them, and not one of them has been lost except the son of destruction, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. But now I am coming to You, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them Your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not ask that You take them out of the world, but that You keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth. As you sent Me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth. “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word, that they may all be one, just as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You have sent Me. The glory that You have given Me I have given to them, that they may be one even as We are one, I in them and You in Me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that You sent Me and loved them even as You loved Me. Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given Me, may be with Me where I am, to see My glory that You have given Me because You loved Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, even though the world does not know You, I know You, and these know that You have sent Me. I made known to them Your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which You have loved Me may be in them, and I in them.” Such beautiful words from Jesus through this passage are the focal point of the Bible and history! How exciting that we have them within our grasp to access and absorb. In John 17, the entire first chapter is compiled of Jesus praying. Through His prayerful words, we hear that the world we live in is a fierce and godless battleground beneath Satan’s power that is at odds with those of us who follow Jesus. Satan and his forces are out to destroy us, but here we see Jesus’s concern as He prays for His disciples and us, His followers. Jesus prayed for our safety, and for God to set us apart so that we can be made pure and holy through Him. In this passage of loving prayer, Jesus clearly shows us again how to obtain eternal life. Through Him. An eternal life with God is given through a personal relationship with Jesus. By admitting our sin and turning away from it, then seeking forgiveness and relationship with Jesus, we obtain the gift of the Holy Spirit within us to guide and mature us daily. Although it is beyond our comprehension, Jesus was one with God before He came to live on this earth as a man. Now, in this passage, we see Jesus as His earthly mission is almost complete, and His sovereignty is shown in His word as He asks God to restore Him to His original place of honor and authority with Him. These beautiful words are packed with so much truth and guidance. We see Jesus yearning for God to protect the disciples and we also see Him pray for us, the believers now living. So much of the world follows Satan’s plans and visions, and Jesus pleads for God to protect us and sanctify us by God’s word of truth. Jesus did not ask God to take us out of the world, but to use us here. We are each supposed to be salt and light, not avoiding relationships with non-Christians, and not succumbing to the ways of the world, either. Knowing that Jesus prayed for us and that the Holy Spirit still intercedes for us, should strengthen our faith and determination to be in God’s word to arm us with what we need and to protect us as we wrestle with the powers threatening to swallow us daily. Jesus has already had the victory and we have all we need to remain in the battle, allowing God to fight for us. Jesus has made the Father known. He has shown us the clear path to Him and has prayed in advance for the care we will need to encounter life in this fallen world. Make unity with Christ and fellow believers a natural extension of your walk with Christ so that the world will see His glory and light through us. This Christmas season I want to list some glorious reminders that are backed by scripture in the Bible. I won’t read each reference now, but they will be listed in the transcripts of this episode on my website at terrihitt.com. Remember, when you belong to Jesus, your true identity is finally found. Because of Jesus: We are justified (declared not guilty of sin). Romans 3:24 No condemnation will await us. Romans 8:1 We become free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:2 We are sanctified and made acceptable in Jesus. 1 Corinthians 1:2 We become righteous and holy in Christ 1 Corinthians 1:30 We will be made alive at the resurrection. 1 Corinthians 15:22 We become a new creation! 2 Corinthians 5:17 We receive God’s righteousness. 2 Corinthians 5:21 We are one in Christ with other believers. Galatians 3:28 We are blessed with every spiritual blessing in Jesus Ephesians 1:3 We are holy and blameless; covered by God’s love. Ephesians 1:4 We are adopted as God’s children. Ephesians 1:5, 6 Our sins are removed; we are forgiven. Ephesians 1:7 We are brought under the headship of Jesus Ephesians 1:10, 11 We are marked as belonging to God by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 1:13 We have been raised up to sit with Christ in glory. Ephesians 2:6 We are God’s work of art. Ephesians 2:10 We have been brought near to God. Ephesians 2:13 We share in the promise of Christ. Ephesians 3:6 We can come into God’s presence with freedom and confidence Ephesians 3:12 We become members of Christ’s body, the church. Ephesians 5:29, 30 We have been given fullness in Christ Colossians 2:10 We are set free from our sinful nature Colossians 2:11 We will have eternal glory. 2 Timothy 2:10 Jesus is a precious gift we are allowed to choose whether or not we will receive. It is by God’s glorious grace that we are saved. We are His beautiful workmanship and are created to do good works, which God has prepared for us in advance. If God considers us a piece of preciously crafted workmanship, we can believe that we are of extremely high value. Choose to live with His opinion of you stamped in your mind and remember to cling to the promise of eternity with Him. Allow Him to work through you to bring as many people into His glorious kingdom as possible. Dear Jesus, how we love You, but our love is nothing compared to what You have for us. Thank you for Your merciful work on the cross and within us. We praise You and offer our humble gratitude. Please continue to cleanse and renew us daily, Lord, moment by moment. Show us Your face, Your heart, Your mind, and Your hands so that we are certain of the example You set for us to follow. Help us to complete the purpose You have set for us and may we do it with Your humble compassion, wisdom, love, and obedience. May we seek You in a deeper way this holiday season and let that love, awe, wonder, and respect remain embedded within us in a new and more meaningful way as we head into the new year. Thank you, Jesus, for your sacrifice for us. May we honor You with the way we live. You are so good. In Your precious and holy name we pray. I deeply desire to allow God to cultivate a strong community of women through the work He has given me. I pray you will be better equipped to live with an eternal perspective and encouraged to influence children for Jesus. Future episodes and resources will be geared toward the important duty we have as parents and grandparents to guide and guard children for Jesus. The Live With Eternal Perspective podcast is currently linked to my new website at terrihitt.com, where you can access all the podcasts housed in one convenient location, as well as receive access to blog posts, transcripts, and additional free resources that are added to regularly. Thank you for listening. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to Jesus and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up and find for new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 048 Preparing for Christ Part 2 Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #048 – Preparing for Christ – Part 2 Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. As it is the end of the year, many worthy organizations are looking for end of year support, and I want to take a moment again today to mention one of my favorite local charities in Kansas City, the “Who Is Carter Foundation.” Did you know that they have established a worldwide project to provide support, treatment options, and resources to those supporting exceptional children with neurological conditions? That project can be found at thebrainpossible.com, and you can learn more about the foundation at whoiscarter.org. Or you can visit either on Instagram. We have personally worked with this organization and truly appreciate their mission and the support they offer. I encourage you to visit their websites to learn more and please, pass the info on to a friend or family member who might benefit from their various services. Last week’s podcast was done in a different format and I am pleased to slow down this week, as well, and read more scripture with you, reflecting on the goodness and qualities of Christ as we continue to prepare our heart and mind to celebrate Jesus this holiday. I pray we continue maturing in new ways and never return to our previous way of daily living as we let the holiness of the season linger and abide in our spirit. Each day is meant to be a new experience that draws us nearer to the Lord, allowing Him to extract more out of us, so that those cleaned areas in our life will be filled by Jesus. As we hear God’s words, I pray that the scriptures will help us consciously stretch ourselves farther, allowing for His holy eternal perspective to rule us daily. Because of Jesus, we can hear the words of God and experience joy, peace, hope, and true love. Without Jesus, there would be no light in this world. God’s love is explained through His One and Only Son. May the delight God sees and shows in His son, with whom He is well-pleased, permeate our hearts as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus and may His light embrace and mold us anew as we absorb the words into our spirit. May each day in the next year, and those to come, be a celebration of Jesus. As we allow Him to work within us and grow our love and obedience for Him, rejoicing in Who He is, and following Him, allowing Him to flow through us becomes a joy we cannot release. Jesus isn’t our Savior. He becomes our everything, as we breathe Him in and exhale His fragrance to the world around us. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will.” What good, pleasing, and perfect plans God has for each of us, His children! His desire is for us to be transformed by renewing our minds through Him. As followers of Jesus, we are called to conform not to this world, but to Christ. It is then that we will joyfully allow ourselves to be living sacrifices for Him daily as we follow His will and ways and discover God’s new and joyous life for us. James 1:27 says, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” God calls us to remain unpolluted by the world by following Him closely and caring for what He does. As we allow Christ access to our mind and heart, we begin to follow His ethical and moral order instead of the value system of this world. True faith carries us to the Father’s heart as we desire and lovingly value and care for what He does. 1 Samuel 16:7 says, “But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." God judges by faith and character, not outward appearance. Only He can accurately judge us because He sees straight into our heart and motives. We must do all we can to improve our inward self so that we fill God with joy when He looks upon us. Psalm 37:23-24 says, “The LORD makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with His hand.” Oh, to give God joy by delighting in Him! If we desire God to protect our steps, it is imperative that we trust and follow Him, then pursue His ways by doing His will with joy. Seek Him before stepping out and heed His warnings and advice. Psalm 32:8 says, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.” God deeply desires to counsel us with His infinite wisdom. His words and Holy Spirit show us the absolute best ways to live and navigate life in this world. Humbly allow Him to instruct and teach with His abiding love and counsel, rather than learning through discipline or heartache from following your own path. Proverbs 16:9 says, “The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.” God has blessed us with life! He wants us to enjoy it and make plans. However, our Father wants us to remember that He has specifically created each of us and placed us here with a beautiful purpose that God wants to complete through us. We must allow Him to direct our heart and mind as we cling to Him in a personal relationship that seeks to know and follow Him more closely daily. Psalm 33:4-5 says, “For the word of the LORD is right and true; He is faithful in all he does. The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of His unfailing love.” God can be trusted all the time and His words are upright and true. People are unreliable, God is not. Our Heavenly Father never changes His character or words, and His promises are always fulfilled in His perfect timing. Proverbs 2:1-6 says, “My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding—indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” We can each access wisdom is one of two ways. Either we have a God-given gift to be used for glorifying and honoring Him and others or we humbly desire and seek it from Him. Wisdom is just the beginning of understanding God’s ways and living in them. After wisdom, we can receive insight and understanding through a close relationship and His word. As we cling to God and consistently request His wisdom, knowledge, and understanding, He will allow us pieces of Him through the gifts. What a reward to be gifted in such areas as the Lord carries! How far we are from Him, yet our access to Him is eternal and living inside us through the Holy Spirit. John 17:1-26 says, “When Jesus had spoken these words, He lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify Your Son that the Son may glorify You, since You have given Him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom You have given Him. And this is eternal life, that they know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. I glorified You on earth, having accomplished the work that You gave Me to do. And now, Father, glorify Me in Your own presence with the glory that I had with You before the world existed. “I have manifested Your name to the people whom You gave me out of the world. Yours they were, and You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word. Now they know that everything that You have given Me is from You. For I have given them the words that You gave me, and they have received them and have come to know in truth that I came from You; and they have believed that You sent Me. I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours. All mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine, and I am glorified in them. And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in Your name, which You have given Me, that they may be one, even as We are one. While I was with them, I kept them in Your name, which You have given Me. I have guarded them, and not one of them has been lost except the son of destruction, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. But now I am coming to You, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them Your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not ask that You take them out of the world, but that You keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth. As you sent Me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth. “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word, that they may all be one, just as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You have sent Me. The glory that You have given Me I have given to them, that they may be one even as We are one, I in them and You in Me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that You sent Me and loved them even as You loved Me. Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given Me, may be with Me where I am, to see My glory that You have given Me because You loved Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, even though the world does not know You, I know You, and these know that You have sent Me. I made known to them Your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which You have loved Me may be in them, and I in them.” Such beautiful words from Jesus through this passage are the focal point of the Bible and history! How exciting that we have them within our grasp to access and absorb. In John 17, the entire first chapter is compiled of Jesus praying. Through His prayerful words, we hear that the world we live in is a fierce and godless battleground beneath Satan’s power that is at odds with those of us who follow Jesus. Satan and his forces are out to destroy us, but here we see Jesus’s concern as He prays for His disciples and us, His followers. Jesus prayed for our safety, and for God to set us apart so that we can be made pure and holy through Him. In this passage of loving prayer, Jesus clearly shows us again how to obtain eternal life. Through Him. An eternal life with God is given through a personal relationship with Jesus. By admitting our sin and turning away from it, then seeking forgiveness and relationship with Jesus, we obtain the gift of the Holy Spirit within us to guide and mature us daily. Although it is beyond our comprehension, Jesus was one with God before He came to live on this earth as a man. Now, in this passage, we see Jesus as His earthly mission is almost complete, and His sovereignty is shown in His word as He asks God to restore Him to His original place of honor and authority with Him. These beautiful words are packed with so much truth and guidance. We see Jesus yearning for God to protect the disciples and we also see Him pray for us, the believers now living. So much of the world follows Satan’s plans and visions, and Jesus pleads for God to protect us and sanctify us by God’s word of truth. Jesus did not ask God to take us out of the world, but to use us here. We are each supposed to be salt and light, not avoiding relationships with non-Christians, and not succumbing to the ways of the world, either. Knowing that Jesus prayed for us and that the Holy Spirit still intercedes for us, should strengthen our faith and determination to be in God’s word to arm us with what we need and to protect us as we wrestle with the powers threatening to swallow us daily. Jesus has already had the victory and we have all we need to remain in the battle, allowing God to fight for us. Jesus has made the Father known. He has shown us the clear path to Him and has prayed in advance for the care we will need to encounter life in this fallen world. Make unity with Christ and fellow believers a natural extension of your walk with Christ so that the world will see His glory and light through us. This Christmas season I want to list some glorious reminders that are backed by scripture in the Bible. I won’t read each reference now, but they will be listed in the transcripts of this episode on my website at terrihitt.com. Remember, when you belong to Jesus, your true identity is finally found. Because of Jesus: We are justified (declared not guilty of sin). Romans 3:24 No condemnation will await us. Romans 8:1 We become free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:2 We are sanctified and made acceptable in Jesus. 1 Corinthians 1:2 We become righteous and holy in Christ 1 Corinthians 1:30 We will be made alive at the resurrection. 1 Corinthians 15:22 We become a new creation! 2 Corinthians 5:17 We receive God’s righteousness. 2 Corinthians 5:21 We are one in Christ with other believers. Galatians 3:28 We are blessed with every spiritual blessing in Jesus Ephesians 1:3 We are holy and blameless; covered by God’s love. Ephesians 1:4 We are adopted as God’s children. Ephesians 1:5, 6 Our sins are removed; we are forgiven. Ephesians 1:7 We are brought under the headship of Jesus Ephesians 1:10, 11 We are marked as belonging to God by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 1:13 We have been raised up to sit with Christ in glory. Ephesians 2:6 We are God’s work of art. Ephesians 2:10 We have been brought near to God. Ephesians 2:13 We share in the promise of Christ. Ephesians 3:6 We can come into God’s presence with freedom and confidence Ephesians 3:12 We become members of Christ’s body, the church. Ephesians 5:29, 30 We have been given fullness in Christ Colossians 2:10 We are set free from our sinful nature Colossians 2:11 We will have eternal glory. 2 Timothy 2:10 Jesus is a precious gift we are allowed to choose whether or not we will receive. It is by God’s glorious grace that we are saved. We are His beautiful workmanship and are created to do good works, which God has prepared for us in advance. If God considers us a piece of preciously crafted workmanship, we can believe that we are of extremely high value. Choose to live with His opinion of you stamped in your mind and remember to cling to the promise of eternity with Him. Allow Him to work through you to bring as many people into His glorious kingdom as possible. Dear Jesus, how we love You, but our love is nothing compared to what You have for us. Thank you for Your merciful work on the cross and within us. We praise You and offer our humble gratitude. Please continue to cleanse and renew us daily, Lord, moment by moment. Show us Your face, Your heart, Your mind, and Your hands so that we are certain of the example You set for us to follow. Help us to complete the purpose You have set for us and may we do it with Your humble compassion, wisdom, love, and obedience. May we seek You in a deeper way this holiday season and let that love, awe, wonder, and respect remain embedded within us in a new and more meaningful way as we head into the new year. Thank you, Jesus, for your sacrifice for us. May we honor You with the way we live. You are so good. In Your precious and holy name we pray. I deeply desire to allow God to cultivate a strong community of women through the work He has given me. I pray you will be better equipped to live with an eternal perspective and encouraged to influence children for Jesus. Future episodes and resources will be geared toward the important duty we have as parents and grandparents to guide and guard children for Jesus. The Live With Eternal Perspective podcast is currently linked to my new website at terrihitt.com, where you can access all the podcasts housed in one convenient location, as well as receive access to blog posts, transcripts, and additional free resources that are added to regularly. Thank you for listening. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to Jesus and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up and find for new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 089 - Addressing the Top Fears of Christian Mothers with Godly Faith and Wisdom Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 089 – Addressing the Top Fears of Christian Mothers with Godly Faith and Wisdom Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast deepens your walk with Jesus and your children, equipping you to become a set-apart woman and mother. Motherhood can bring out the best and worst in you. Would you agree? Many emotions push to the surface when a woman becomes a mother. Fear can be one that rises above others to the front of a woman’s mind once she’s responsible for the life of her beautiful, helpless child. So many pressures come with being a wife and mother – or even more, as a single mom. Psalm 94:19 says, “When the cares of my heart are many, Your consolations cheer my soul.” Praise God for this verse! It is a reminder that His consolations cheer our soul. There are times in life when every person needs The Father, our loving, sovereign God, to reach within our mind and lift fears or anxieties. Most believers understand that fear doesn't come from God, but there are times when fear pops up quickly and unexpectedly. When an accident occurs, a job loss hits, or a death occurs, fear can quickly consume thoughts, if you let them. God desires a different way of life for you than living with fear. He calls you to look to Him for release and guidance. He wants to guard you as a parent, providing a perfect peace that passes understanding. Where are you in this season of life? Whether you have no fears or you are battling many, know that where you are - will not be where you stay. Of course, you may be walking a beautiful and dependent relationship with Christ. You may have surrendered fear or anxieties and live in perfect peace. However, you are human. You live in an imperfect world. Never forget the guard that surrounds you is your strength. You alone are not capable of living in perfect peace. You must keep your eyes, mind, and heart fixed on God. 1 Peter 5:5b-11 says, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble. Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To Him be the power for ever and ever. Amen. ” Women face many pressures in today’s society that cause fear, anxiety, or stress. Working moms often face little time for self-interests or exercise. Perhaps you desire to get to church or to volunteer, but can’t find a way to shift your schedule to do so. Or it may be challenging to get time alone with your husband. At times you may feel like you can’t manage time to do what you want to at all. It seems the weekend is over before it even starts. Will the busy work week always manage your life? Time at home is short. Often husbands don’t help around the house. Frustration can build and turn into anxiety that often becomes anger. As much as a mom loves her man and children, it can be difficult to feel like there’s enough time to spend with him or the kids. Quality over quantity loses its charm when you know a few minutes at night between greeting them after work, fixing and eating dinner, cleaning the kitchen, homework, and getting ready for bed simply isn’t enough. Real connection seems to be a fleeting fantasy. Between managing technology and keeping kids safe online and in the “real world,” navigating phones, gaming, and social media rules with kids, finding time to communicate with pre-teens and teens when you’re not ready to head to bed, understanding what your kids are exposed to by peers, helping your children navigate teasing and bullying, helping your children learn to be kind and not go with the kids who bully, and how to maintain a sense of worthiness, esteem, and identity in your children in a shifting world, can be exhausting at the very least. Then to top things off, sometimes a mom feels bullied by other women, mom-shamed, or betrayed by people she thought were her friends. Stay-at home and work-from home moms face many of the same worries and distractions in their days. Time may be shifted and activities different, but all Christian moms face similar concerns about raising safe and godly children. Without a purposed plan for parenting that provides a mother with strength that comes from Christ, life can be difficult, lonely, and fearful. Unless a woman seeks God first, builds a strong identity in Christ, and intentionally becomes a woman set-apart for Him, she cannot raise godly children who pursue the Father. She is without the strength, wisdom, insight, and understanding she needs to navigate the concerns she carries in this 21st century. Did you know that when fear, anxiety, or stress flows through you, it means you have taken your mind and eyes off of God? Instead, you have unknowingly centered them on self or surroundings instead of Savior . Every time I have felt fear even begin to touch me I stop and focus on Jesus (and in my mind I actually picture blinders on my face that force my vision upwards on God). As I rest in His presence and pray to Him about the situation I am fearing, He takes the burden and calms any fears. It is said that God leaves the message “Do not fear” 365 times in the Bible. I'm not sure whether that is an accurate count, but I trust that the Lord gives us the command for daily use because He knows our thoughts can easily be distracted. He knows how easily we move from His sovereign holiness and perfect provision and protection. Do you want to feel the perfect peace that can only come from God despite what you are facing in life? I’ll share seven steps you can use to help conquer fears with godly faith and wisdom: 1. Pause People Pleasing – Sometimes fear comes from the expectations others place on you . You have the power to stop them from placing demands on you. Remember, the only one you need to focus on pleasing is God. He will direct your steps and light your path with His will, purpose, and perfect plan. He desires good, not evil in your life and home. He will never lead you astray as you put your hope and trust in Him. Matthew 6:34 says, “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble .” Ask God to erase expectations of others that are not in His plan. Pray for Him to show you ways to take yourself out of the demands of others and strive to please Him. 2. Break Rules – Sometimes fear forms when you attempt to follow every rule laid out for you – whether it be self-imposed or by a husband or employer. Praise God! He freed you from following the old rules through Jesus. Don’t be entrapped by new ones. As long as you mature your walk with Him and follow His desires for you, He will not lead you astray. Often, women are harder on themselves than anyone else could be. Prayerfully check to see if there are rules you’ve imposed on yourself that need to be lifted or adjusted. Psalm 118:6 says, “The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me ?” Maybe you’ve been told you have to cook every meal in your home. Maybe you think you can’t take time to play with the kids or enjoy a walk with your husband. Do you think your home has to be perfectly clean? Break those rules and enjoy life. You only get one. Your kid will grow up before you know it. Make the memories they take with them be the ones full of life and love with you. 3. Be Unique – Often fear can come from trying to be someone other than you were created to be. Are you trying to please everyone but God? Are you attempting to follow every identity you think must be imposed on you because you’re a wife and mother? Instead, look at your life and prayerfully seek where you may not be being “you.” Maybe you’re making life harder by trying to be what others expect instead of who you can excel at being – yourself. Job 11:18-19a says, “You will be secure, because there is hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety. You will lie down, with no one to make you afraid .” Sometimes dreams have to wait until your kids are a little older, or perhaps God will make a way for that desire you have to happen now. Lean into your relationship with Him and seek what He calls for you. His Word never lies and it tells us that what He has planned for you is greater than anything you can imagine on your own. 4. Eliminate Excuses – Often fear arises when you feel you can’t handle what is expected of you. Maybe you think you’re not talented enough, smart enough, brave enough, experienced enough, etc. Or maybe you aren’t getting enough support from your spouse, parents, friends, or employer and you may be correct. If after sharing your feelings, things aren’t changing in ways that benefit your needs and the needs of your family, know that there truly is one who cares. God. Have you cried out to Him? Are you placing trust in His capable hands? Are you praying Scriptural prayers about your situation? Is your attitude godly with those who are disappointing you? Forget blame and forge ahead with faith that no matter what happens, you will get through in the Father’s strength. John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid .” Have a heart to heart with your husband and let him know your feelings. Pray together and seek how he can begin to help. If he refuses, seek a good friend or family member who can step in when needed to alleviate some of your burdens. Be creative and ask God what changes He would desire you to make. 5. Don’t Dawdle – Do you find yourself frozen with fear or anxiety? Get help. Sometimes women hide that they need help because they don’t want to be seen as weak, incompetent, or a failure. Typically, women are hardest on themselves. Confide in those you trust and allow them to help. First, confide in God and seek His direction. Ask Him to help you change the areas and mindset you need to - and see yourself and your situation as He does. Ask for His direction in areas of parenting that may be worrisome. He know your children, your home, your limitations, and the crazy culture we live in. He knows the way. Listen for His voice and take obedient action. Psalm 34:4 says, “I sought the LORD, and He answered me and delivered me from all my fears.” God knows the situations you face. Whether it be parenting questions, marital issues, or job/home concerns, He has the answers you seek. God created you and your family as unique individuals. Your children are not the same as each other or anyone else’s children. Make the time to learn what makes them tick. Discover how God made them. Don’t be afraid to tell them no when needed. They need you to make decisions that will guide them in a godly upbringing. Teach them through relationship with Christ, it is good to be different - to be set-apart. In fact, God requires it. 6. Pursue Positivity – As a mom, you always have little ears, eyes, and hearts following and watching you. Your reactions and habits form theirs . Obviously, you can’t be perfect, but through Christ working within you, He will give you the ability to be transformed moment by moment. Submit to Him. Call on His mighty power to craft a new attitude and mindset within you that recognizes fear or anxiety the moment it rears its ugly head in your life. Psalm 115:11 says, “You who fear the LORD, trust in the LORD! He is their help and their shield.” Protect and preserve the faith of your children as they see the way you lift fears, hurts, anxiety, and the like to their Heavenly Father. Help them trust in Him and know that He is real. Help them believe His power and call on it as they mature. 7. Form Flourishing Faith - Above all, no matter what you feel, remember that you need to process those feelings, not stuff them down or hide them. Present them to God and humbly submit to what and where He leads. You may find that you are already in alignment with God and He will carry you through. Or you may see that you are far from His desires for you and need His guidance and growth to get you where you need to go. Your feelings and emotions are powerful, but sometimes they can be powerfully incorrect . Let God help you see where you are and where you need to go. Let Him carry you there as you form a faith that flourishes. Psalm 56:3 says, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in You .” Seek God first. Even when you feel you don’t have time. He carries the answers you need. Breathe Him in. Trust in and rely on Him. You can’t exhale what you haven’t inhaled. As you navigate life, place God first and family second. God honors the one who correctly prioritizes life by honoring Him. When you are with your husband and children, remember that even when time is short, the intentionality of your interactions matter. Your children and spouse need to see joy in your eyes, reactions, tone of voice, and body language when they enter the room. God has gifted you with a family to grow with and to love as He loves you. Honor them by learning to be a set-apart woman with eyes, mind, and heart centered above. As your children grow, do you want them to live with fear or faith ? Show them the example they need to grasp the hope and peace that is in Christ. Help them find faith that carries them past fear while they are young. If you feel frustrated that you don't have time alone, remember God's direction in prioritizing Him, then spouse, then kids. Let Him know the desires of your heart and ask Him for a way to reeive the self-care you need. Put Him first and see the ways He intimately provides for you. Dear Heavenly Father, You alone are Lord. You alone are our sustainer and rock, our guide and guard. Oh, Father. How we need You. While our humanness seeks to go on our own, our soul cries out for You. Help us step into and remain in the palm of Your mighty hands. Cradle us against Your chest so we never want to leave. Show us the way to raise safe and godly children who know, pursue, and love you. Help us not to fear, but to rest. Help us not carry anxiety, but trust in Youi. Make us more like You each moment. We thank you for your grace, mercy, and everlasting love. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Have you heard me talk about the Set-Apart Collective in this podcast? Do you wonder why I share it so often? It’s simply because I know the program works . Through 8 weeks of one-on-one and group coaching, along with Scripturally-based materials I provide, you will complete 8 steps that include the following: Seek God First, Establish Identity, Teach Truth, A Set-Apart Woman, Parent Set-Apart Kids, Arm for Battle, Relationships, and Training. What you learn and solidify in your personal life will directly affect the way you serve God and parent for Him. It will help you construct godly confidence and esteem through Christ in your children. If you’re ready to invest in the future of your children, contact me at info@terrihitt.com for more details or visit terrihitt.com/setapart. Because you are a podcast listener, let me know you heard about the special price I’m offering you. I seriously want you to experience results and live a set-apart life with a set-apart family. Instead of a $997 value, I’ll give you a discount code that enables you to pay only $247. If you are serious about parenting with eternal perspective and raising children to chase Christ over culture, I’m making this very affordable and easy to do. Why? Because supporting and encouraging mothers to rest in Christ and pursue a holy relationship with Him so they purposely raise set-apart children is the cry of my heart. Godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset a mother carries. If you don’t want peers and culture to be the main influence over your child, if you desire to parent to “prepare” your child for eternity with Christ, not repair your relationship with them, the Set-Apart Collective will deepen your walk with Christ. You’ll learn a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family. Send me an email at info@terrihitt.com to let me know you’d like to receive information or look online at terrihitt.com/setapart. We can also set up a 15 minute call to chat about details. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. Time is short. Make your matter for eternity. If you connected in some way with this episode, would you please rate and review the podcast on Apple or Spotify? It only takes a minute or so and makes a big difference in people finding the podcast. You and I know that the best reviews are by word of mouth, so would you please choose a friend to recommend the show to? Let them know that the podcast is found at terrihitt.com, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. Imagine the change we will see in the way mothers parent for Christ if they learn to be intentional, too. Remember, if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will likely sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection. Previous Next

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 113 - Are You Parenting Your Toddlers for the Teen Years? Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 113 – Are You Parenting Your Toddlers for the Teen Years? Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast gives you the awareness and tools you need to STOP being a GOOD mom and BECOME the GODLY mom God entrusts you to be. Then you will be the SET-APART woman PURPOSELY raising children to chase CHRIST over culture. Just a quick reminder as we start, if you enjoy Purposed Parent Connected Child podcast episodes, would you please share this episode or others with a friend or family member? When you graciously take a moment to do that, and leave a rating or review at Apple Podcast, you are ensuring that others will find the podcast. When you do, you’re helping affect generations for Jesus. Now on to an important question to consider in this episode…are you parenting your toddlers for the teen years? Parenthood gives mothers such unique abilities to learn about relationships. Not only how to foster relationships, but how to recognize potential issues early in relationships and try to avoid those problems. We see our children up close and personal…and they see us, too. Just as our kids know us well by watching and cataloging our expressions, actions, and words, observant mothers will use everyday opportunities to view and evaluate how well our children listen, obey, and care for others. Do they show kindness, respect, and truth? How well are they responding to the truths of God that we present to them in multiple ways daily? Are you aware that the way you parent your toddlers can help set your teens up for failure or success? Common threads are often uncovered among parents when they chat about navigating the tapestry of the teen years, but for the most part mothers don’t share for fear or judgement, rejection, or embarrassment. I find it interesting that when parents are in the throes of raising toddlers, there’s more levity in what’s shared than when a parent is battling an issue with their teen. When a mother is living hard days with a teen in the home, the entire household can be affected for days or months. Although they need guidance or support, women are reluctant to share such personal struggles, and the actions of a wayward or obstinate teen can cause everyone in the home to struggle. On the flip side, it’s much easier to ignore or distract the behavior of a toddler. For example, when a toddler refuses to wear an article of clothing, a mother learns that the next time she wants her child to get dressed she won’t ask. Instead, the next time she’ll prepare her child with a transition between activities and will give her toddler two choices, both of which she has already picked as options. “It’s time to get dressed. You can wear this dress or this one.” Or “It’s time to get dressed. Today you can wear this shirt or this shirt.” Hold the choices up in front of them or lay them on a bed in front of the toddler and let them choose. Of course, if you don’t have a child who cares about the clothing they wear, you don’t need to start the options phase. Don’t bring challenges into your life. Continue picking out their clothes and move on quickly in your morning routine. However, when you recognize that what your child wears matters to him or her, allow your child the freedom to have autonomy. On the other hand, when your teen refuses to wear something you’ve asked them to, and they begin dressing in ways you don’t approve of, the challenge feels much harder. It is, but the way you prepare your child for the teen years while you parent the toddler years and between will make those teen years much less challenging for both of you. You’ll also ensure you don’t create barriers by reacting in ways totally different than any other time in their life. For example, when your child is young, you make life easier by giving them choices you approve of. As your child grows, their ability to reason grows with them. As you see ways they are changing, you begin to build on groundwork you’ve already poured to make that foundation of your relationship stronger. You offer different choices depending on age and abilities, but you’ve been working with them over the years to help your child learn how to reason logically and biblically and to make wise choices. Remember that every child is as unique as a snowflake. They’ll each develop at their own God-given pace, however, there are ways to predict the most common times children will develop new skills. When we look at phases of human development, we see that in the toddler phase of development, children need to get good sleep, nutrition, stimulation, and need to continue building close bonds with their caregivers. So, using the example of attire, if you don’t want your teen to wear certain clothing, you must nourish your relationship and their decision-making in certain ways. I knew I didn’t want my youngest daughters to wear skimpy clothing when they were teens or adults, so I wanted to instill morals and integrity in them that would teach them to want to dress conservatively. Now, at 18 and 20 years of age, they both dress with reserve, yet are still stylish and choose their own clothing based on personality and interests, while remaining modest and current. Because it was a priority to me to teach my girls to respect their body (and not desire to flaunt theirs the way we see women doing on social media), and because I didn’t want them to wear tight, short spandex dresses that almost look like an article of shapewear, I took purposed steps when they were toddlers. Here are some of the most important ways I planned for my girls to dress in the ways I believed God would approve: First, I didn’t dress in the ways I didn’t want my daughters to dress. Next, I didn’t compliment women who dressed in that way. I drew attention to others who dressed modestly, yet stylishly. Finally, I didn’t purchase that type of clothing for my girls, even when they were small. I didn’t place bikinis on them in public, because I didn’t want them to wear them as teens. Since I believed God would find it more pleasing for my girls to wear a modest one-piece swimsuit, that’s what I dressed them in as toddlers. It’s what they got used to wearing. It’s what I also wore when I put a swimsuit on. I also taught the girls these things to think about attire over the years: Is this outfit right for the climate/weather? Is this outfit appropriate for the event I’m attending? Will I be comfortable in my choice? Will my choice of clothing be respectful of others in attendance? I know attire is one simple example, but the same principle applies to other areas of parenting toddlers so that you lay the groundwork for smoother teen years. There are many ways parenting teens and toddlers compliment each other or leave you with similar challenges, so let’s examine a few of those ways. 1. Parents find raising teens challenging because they feel it is hard to talk about certain topics such as sex with their children. When the kids are young, parents are reluctant to talk about those subjects, even though society today is causing parents to broach those topics at younger and younger ages and phases of childhood. So, the parent, who should be able to use their common and God-given sense to know when to approach topics feels pushed to teach things they’re uncomfortable with or they don’t want to harm their child by discussing. Then, on the flip side, once children are teens, parents might find certain topics embarrassing for them or their children, and become slow to tackle that topic. However, if parents wait too long, they may have a teen who has gotten into trouble because they were too naïve to know to stay away from something, or you may find your teen in a dangerous situation because they were never warned or taught godly morals around that situation. You may also have a young child frightened before it is time to hear of certain topics. At either end, if the timing isn’t right, parents may cause issues that could have been avoided, or they may cause trust issues between them and their children after children see or hear about delicate topics from unsavory or untrustworthy sources. 2. Toddlers and teens both have anger, frustration, or distractions that seem very similar to one another. Remember, the temper tantrums, bossiness, and new skill sets you navigate with your toddler can set up your relationship with your teen to be more closely bonded. 3. Both toddlers and teen are searching for identity. Be sure to teach your child godly identity in Jesus because you have (and continue) to deepen yours with Him. Just knowing the gospel won’t be enough for your child to grasp and construct their own house of faith. Be sure that they see Jesus really is important to you, not just words you speak or actions you take, like religiously going to church every week, then leaving Jesus at the door to your home. 4. Notice the strengths and weaknesses your toddler exhibits and direct those in Christlike ways as he grows. Consider the ways your child reacts to trials and triumphs. Is he easily frustrated or angered as a toddler? Help him by your tone, reactions, words, etc. to teach him how to battle and conquer ways of handlings situations in godly ways. 5. Teach your children godly characteristics like honesty, integrity, love, kindness, patience, etc. from toddlerhood. Root those qualities in God’s truths and show them in your own life. This will set them up to carry those same qualities that have been strengthened over the years, like a muscle that has been exercised. 6. Take note of the gifts, talents, and interests God has purposed in your children. As they grow, help them navigate how to stay true to who God made them to be while remaining rooted in His truths. Help them find how to use the gifts, talents, and interests in ways that honor God and serve His purpose for them. 7. Make time to be with your toddler, not only in everyday care, but in play and relaxation. Go outdoors together. Roll on the floor and laugh together. Play games together. Color or draw together. Play ball. Search for insects outdoors or find beautiful leaves on the trees. Let your inner child be revived as you find ways to spend time together. Use your imagination and creativity, or use theirs, but have fun just being together. When you laugh together when your child is a toddler, you’re more apt to continue that routine as they grow and enjoy fun times together when they become a teen. 8. Be there for your toddler when they’re afraid or hurting. Even when it’s hard, let them see that you love them enough to be brave and present when life is hard. Model how to ask God to carry you all through the hard times and show them a pure faith that doesn’t turn away through hard or easy times. 9. Speak God’s truths and Words to your toddlers and teens through conversations, everyday life, and prayers. Think of how many similarities there are between toddlers and teens. Both ends of your parenting years can have many of the same interests and characteristics. Listen to these qualities and you will recognize that they apply to toddlers and teens. Selfishness, mood swings, and egos that think the world revolves around them, know-it-all attitudes, desire to gather people and friends, the desire to be independent, even if they’re not ready, risky behaviors (as a toddler your child may run into traffic or climb bookshelves and your teen may partake in dangerous or sneaky behaviors such as smoking, sex, drugs, alcohol, driving dangerously, stealing, or lying. Both toddlers and teens may begin these actions when they need more attention or they may have personalities that are impulsive and inquisitive. Either way, your children, both toddlers and teens, need close, loving guidance toward a loving Savior by a parent who lives what they preach. Remember it is key to be building your own strong identity in Christ. If you have questions about how to do that, please connect with me at info@terrihitt.com . Also, love your toddler and your teen in ways they understand and need. You know your children better than anyone else. The Bible and a strong walk with God will be your guiding tools. Connection with other godly individuals sharing experiences will help you when you’re hurting or confused about how to parent. Connect with your children intentionally – connect with them personally, and connect them to Christ. Don’t treat your children as an afterthought. Let them know how important they are to you. Know their body language and love language. You don’t have to pamper or spoil your children, but you do need to prioritize them over selfish needs. Respect your children and teach them to respect you and most importantly, God. Let your children know you are chosen and entrusted by God to raise them for Him. Foster obedience Don’t exasperate Look to God to guide and guard your parenting decisions. Pray. Put God first in your own life. Read the Word daily – and also read and study the Word together. You have time. It’s all in what you prioritize. Find answers together when your kids have questions you don’t know. Discipline to disciple, not punish Be a godly, not good parent Don’t try to be your child’s best friend. They need godly parents. Infuse your home with a genuine, godly atmosphere. Teach integrity. Make your home a safe place. Enjoy your child’s friends – welcome them, get to know them. Help your kids know how to choose godly, faithful friends. Have godly entertainment in your home (music, books, shows, artwork, etc,). I ‘ve included a few Bible verses you may use to pray over your children or to teach them. Use the concept when your children are young, as they mature, teach the full verse. 1 Timothy 4:12 says, “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” 2 Timothy 2:22-26 says, “So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.” Ecclesiastes 11:9 says, “Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth. Walk in the ways of your heart and the sight of your eyes. But know that for all these things God will bring you into judgment.” 1 Peter 5:7 says, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” Psalms 119:9 says, “How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word.” 1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” Dear Heavenly Father, how great You are, our holy Maker of Heaven and Earth. Thank you for your generosity to us. We in no way deserve to be raising Your precious children, yet You entrust them to us. Equip us to be godly parents who chase You over culture and teach our children to do the same. Work within us. Change us. Mold us into the mothers You desire us to be. Give us a thirst for You that nothing else will quench and help our children to thirst for You, too. Please equip us to raise children who come to know, honor, obey, and serve You with humble love and gratitude. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. This is the part of the episode that you usually hear me talk about the Set-Apart Collective. Today I want to share about my new mini program called “Establish Identity.” Why? Your identity is a major force behind what you do. Who you believe yourself to be, and who you find your identity through affects the way you live, parent, love, serve, and discipline. Your identity is one of the lifelines, a pulse point of your home. Do you ever stop to think that you are the first Jesus your child will see? Even if they are grown, your identity affects your child. The way you think, speak, and react is rooted in your identity. Send me a message at info@terrihitt.com if you’d like details or go to terrihitt.com and join my email list. You’ll get updates before anyone else and hear a little about what makes this so important. If you join the email list you’ll also be able to access free resources such as my new Good to Godly: A 31 Day Scripture and Prayer Guide for Moms. One last thing to remember - if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection with your children and Christ Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #076 – Direct Your Focus Last week I shared that my family is experiencing a difficult season. How I detest times like this, yet appreciate them at the same time. Why? Because I have lived long enough to know that the hardest times have stretched me beyond where I would cause my feet to travel. Jesus has carried me through the worst and the best moments in my life. While it would be amazing to live a perfectly happy life with no difficulties, the honest truth of this fallen world is that we are all alike. We will never find perfection. Life will continue to deliver painful blows. We are blessed when we recognize and remember that God already goes before us. Deuteronomy 1:30-31 says, “The Lord your God, who goes before you, will fight for you, just as you saw Him do for you in Egypt and in the wilderness, where the Lord your God carried you, as a man carries his son, all the way by which you traveled until you reached this place.” Oh, how I love the Lord! His ways are timeless! He is good. Intentionally place your full trust in Him. Direct your gaze Upward in every moment of life; not just when you think you need Him. I saw a Facebook post this week that reminds me of this truth. A mother was sending her child off to begin her life of “adulthood” and her heart is feeling multiple emotions! Understandably so. But the words that caught my attention were when she said that she prayed she had prepared her child enough for this world and that she guessed it was in God’s hands now. I am not singling out or judging what this mom spoke from her heart. Yet, as a follower of Christ who deeply desires to live in ways that honor God moment by moment and to always direct others to Jesus, I want to point out the fact that we must shift our thought process. Every moment of our life should already be in God’s hands. We should strive to grow so close to Him that our heart and mind are attuned to what the Father is calling us to submit to and release to Him moment by moment. We must seek to humble ourselves and submit to the Spirit within us, purposely allowing Christ to reign in our hearts and minds to eradicate self, more and more. How do we do this? The methods of a strong and maturing relationship with God through Jesus are basic. The difficulty comes in intentionally pursuing Him with a passionate mix of trust, hope, love, and faith that comes from seeking Him despite feelings and desires that get in the way and blind us to His truths. For example, if we feel far from God, or that He has abandoned us, that means we must draw nearer to Him. James 4:8 says, “Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.” Never rely on feelings or thoughts, emotions or desires to direct your walk with Jesus. Psalm 73:28 says, “But as for me, it is good to draw near to God. I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may proclaim all Your works.” Good Father, It is the prayer of my heart that every unpleasant moment or hardship I experience on this earth will do nothing but draw me ever nearer to You. I pray that is the same for each listener and for our loved ones. May we inhale the Spirit with every difficulty and exhale Jesus for all to experience and capture the delight and joy of the Lord. For You are good, despite our circumstances and pain, feelings or emotions. Help us to remember to draw near to You so that You will draw nearer to us. May we always be mindful that You are always a step ahead, providing the means for us to thrive in this world if we only place our constant hope and trust in You. In Your precious name we pray and plead. Amen. As I continue to rest in the Lord through this season, I want to mention a few of the past “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast episodes you may find helpful. Where are you right now? Are you ready to: Submit Your Heart? Episode 1 – Heart Conditions Protect Your Thoughts? Episode 2 – Protecting Our thoughts Strive for Obedience? Episode 3 – Obedience Prepare your child or grandchild to live for Him? Episode 7 – Equipping Children Submit emotions? Episode 38 – Who Master’s My Emotions As I continue to rest in the Spirit within and know that He has good plans for me and my family that will not harm us, but will bring us ever closer to Him, I will continue to encourage and equip you to find your rest in and through Jesus, as well. May our spirits ever long for Him and marvel at the ways He provides all we need, especially as we submit each moment into His capable hands. We don’t have to understand or agree with His ways, but we must purposely know Him so that we will willingly trust Him. Thank you, Jesus, for all You are and allow. This week I pray you find new ways to rest in Him and cause yourself to cling to Him in deeper ways that test your faith and understanding. Allow Him to bring you to a new level of trust and abandonment of self. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture as You rely on God to direct your steps. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to the Lord and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 076 Direct Your Focus Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #076 – Direct Your Focus Last week I shared that my family is experiencing a difficult season. How I detest times like this, yet appreciate them at the same time. Why? Because I have lived long enough to know that the hardest times have stretched me beyond where I would cause my feet to travel. Jesus has carried me through the worst and the best moments in my life. While it would be amazing to live a perfectly happy life with no difficulties, the honest truth of this fallen world is that we are all alike. We will never find perfection. Life will continue to deliver painful blows. We are blessed when we recognize and remember that God already goes before us. Deuteronomy 1:30-31 says, “The Lord your God, who goes before you, will fight for you, just as you saw Him do for you in Egypt and in the wilderness, where the Lord your God carried you, as a man carries his son, all the way by which you traveled until you reached this place.” Oh, how I love the Lord! His ways are timeless! He is good. Intentionally place your full trust in Him. Direct your gaze Upward in every moment of life; not just when you think you need Him. I saw a Facebook post this week that reminds me of this truth. A mother was sending her child off to begin her life of “adulthood” and her heart is feeling multiple emotions! Understandably so. But the words that caught my attention were when she said that she prayed she had prepared her child enough for this world and that she guessed it was in God’s hands now. I am not singling out or judging what this mom spoke from her heart. Yet, as a follower of Christ who deeply desires to live in ways that honor God moment by moment and to always direct others to Jesus, I want to point out the fact that we must shift our thought process. Every moment of our life should already be in God’s hands. We should strive to grow so close to Him that our heart and mind are attuned to what the Father is calling us to submit to and release to Him moment by moment. We must seek to humble ourselves and submit to the Spirit within us, purposely allowing Christ to reign in our hearts and minds to eradicate self, more and more. How do we do this? The methods of a strong and maturing relationship with God through Jesus are basic. The difficulty comes in intentionally pursuing Him with a passionate mix of trust, hope, love, and faith that comes from seeking Him despite feelings and desires that get in the way and blind us to His truths. For example, if we feel far from God, or that He has abandoned us, that means we must draw nearer to Him. James 4:8 says, “Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.” Never rely on feelings or thoughts, emotions or desires to direct your walk with Jesus. Psalm 73:28 says, “But as for me, it is good to draw near to God. I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may proclaim all Your works.” Good Father, It is the prayer of my heart that every unpleasant moment or hardship I experience on this earth will do nothing but draw me ever nearer to You. I pray that is the same for each listener and for our loved ones. May we inhale the Spirit with every difficulty and exhale Jesus for all to experience and capture the delight and joy of the Lord. For You are good, despite our circumstances and pain, feelings or emotions. Help us to remember to draw near to You so that You will draw nearer to us. May we always be mindful that You are always a step ahead, providing the means for us to thrive in this world if we only place our constant hope and trust in You. In Your precious name we pray and plead. Amen. As I continue to rest in the Lord through this season, I want to mention a few of the past “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast episodes you may find helpful. Where are you right now? Are you ready to: Submit Your Heart? Episode 1 – Heart Conditions Protect Your Thoughts? Episode 2 – Protecting Our thoughts Strive for Obedience? Episode 3 – Obedience Prepare your child or grandchild to live for Him? Episode 7 – Equipping Children Submit emotions? Episode 38 – Who Master’s My Emotions As I continue to rest in the Spirit within and know that He has good plans for me and my family that will not harm us, but will bring us ever closer to Him, I will continue to encourage and equip you to find your rest in and through Jesus, as well. May our spirits ever long for Him and marvel at the ways He provides all we need, especially as we submit each moment into His capable hands. We don’t have to understand or agree with His ways, but we must purposely know Him so that we will willingly trust Him. Thank you, Jesus, for all You are and allow. This week I pray you find new ways to rest in Him and cause yourself to cling to Him in deeper ways that test your faith and understanding. Allow Him to bring you to a new level of trust and abandonment of self. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture as You rely on God to direct your steps. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to the Lord and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 117 - Should Kids Be Spanked? Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 117 – Should Kids Be Spanked? Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast gives you the awareness and tools you need to STOP being a GOOD mom and BECOME the GODLY mom God entrusts you to be. Then you will be the SET-APART woman PURPOSELY raising children to chase CHRIST over culture. Just a quick reminder as we start, would you please share this episode with a friend or family member who would enjoy learning more about raising kids for Christ? Also, many have promised to leave a rating and review for the podcast, but life happens…and they don’t. So, if you haven’t already, would you please take a moment to leave a rating or review at Apple Podcast? Sharing episodes and leaving a review ensures that others will find the podcast. Then guess what? You’re helping affect generations for Jesus. Now on to this episode with an important and controversial question with an often divided answer…should kids be spanked? First, I want to start with a story. I was on a neighborhood walk recently when a loose dog was crisscrossing the street and a screech of brakes alerted me that it was almost hit. Terrified by the sound and the loud voice of the driver, the dog stood frozen in front of the car. When the owner heard the commotion and saw his dog standing in the roadway, he lovingly called from his yard for the dog to come to him. Seeing his beloved, trusted master and hearing his sweet call, the dog quickly ran home, expecting safety. Instead, as soon as the dog reached him, the owner beat his dog and yelled at him for being in the street. Will this act change the behavior of the dog? As you know, the topic of this episode is spanking, so you might wonder why I opened with this story about a dog. You could argue that a dog and a child can’t be compared as they don’t reason the same. However, according to developmental tests reported by NBC News, even the average dog has the abilities of a toddler. In some areas, dogs are even more intelligent than preschoolers. Speaking of preschoolers, according to a study by the American Psychological Association, they’re the most likely group to be spanked. I don’t want to make this episode one that shames, but I do want parents to realize the gravity of the gift we’ve been given. We are raising children for the Great I Am. We want to be good parents. Of course we want to do our best. But remember, our best falls far below the standard of our holy Heavenly Father . That’s why we must , as those entrusted to parent for God, stop and evaluate the reasoning behind why we make specific decisions and why we take certain actions. Why do some parents choose to spank instead of correcting their children in another way? What do we think we’re teaching our children when we respond with such forceful correction? As we ponder these questions, it leads me to the next ones. Should spanking be the first act a parent takes when a child needs correcting? Are parents behaving biblically when they spank? Or are they succumbing to frustration? Or last resorts when they grab the belt, hair brush, or use their hand in an effort to teach their child? Most parents who spank were spanked as a child. It’s the way they were raised, so it’s what they revert to. But does that mean it is the best method for training God’s children in righteousness? Is spanking the choice we should make to build connection with God and us? Many parents also share that the reason they spank is to cause pain that changes the behavior of their child. We have to consider what type of changes will occur. Surprisingly, research also indicates that parents will hit their child more frequently when they are an active or strong-willed boy between the ages of three to four. When you hear that statistic, how does it make you feel? The common phrase, “boys will be boys” seems appropriate in this application. Does the fact that boys disrupt quiet or make messes make them targets for spanking? Does spanking make them better men when they grow up? Or does a relationship of teaching and connection make the necessity to spank disappear? The answers to these questions are what parents should seek before deciding to spank. We’ve talked about some of the reasons parents choose to spank. The frequency of spanking also varies based on parental or child age, race, gender, education, or socio economic status of the family. The topic of spanking is a divisive one. Most people have feelings one way or another. As I shared earlier, those feelings often stem from the way parents were disciplined as a child. One Bible verse is often quoted as evidence to back pro-spanking parents. Proverbs 13:24 says, “Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.” If we look at the verse with an observant, knowledgeable heart and take our thoughts captive for Christ to prayerfully seek God’s wisdom in this area, we may come to a different conclusion about spanking. For example, Strong’s Lexicon, a type of concordance, teaches that the rod was generally a stick used by shepherds for protecting and guiding their flocks. Shepherds used the rod to steer the sheep in the right direction, or to keep them gathered when they strayed. The rod was also used to fend off predators or warn and comfort the sheep. Used these ways, the rod isn’t a tool for inflicting injury. Instead, it is a tool for loving, protective guidance . When many parents hear the word discipline, they imagine spanking or another form of punishment. However in biblical days the meaning was quite different. In the semitic root, the word rod refers to a type of measuring stick. In the same way we use a yardstick today, the rod was used to measure distances to danger or to measure the growth of sheep in the shepherd’s care . The rod was not intended to inflict pain upon people or sheep. The word rod is also used for scepter. Although the verse from Proverbs 13:24 is usually interpreted as a directive to spank children, when we consider how a scepter was used, we understand that it could be used to extend grace and mercy or death by the King. Since the king wouldn’t speak much or at all to his subjects, he would often make his intentions or directives known by his scepter, the recognized symbol of authority. Whether it was the king or an appointed servant using the scepter, it was understood that the instrument held authority. So as we read Proverbs 13:24 we can see that the rod is seen as the idea of authority , not a literal rod. If you also consider that it was Solomon who penned the verse in Proverbs, you must remember that he was a king. His terminology would have been written with the mindset of one who used the scepter for the purposes I just shared. As king, Solomon was an authority figure to many, but remember, he was also a father, or symbol of authority to his children. Using this frame of thinking, we can reason that Solomon wasn’t condoning beating children, but instead encouraged using the rod, which would be showing love or direction. So, when parents extend the rod, we are paying attention to what our children are doing. We are considering the current situation, as well as looking forward to the future. We are choosing to extend mercy by correcting the behavior, not simply punishing. Dealing with the situation we need to address doesn’t mean to beat or spank. It doesn’t mean to ignore the actions of our children, either. Just as God extends mercy and forgiveness to us when we are disobedient, He also allows us to suffer consequences. Consequences will differ depending on the act and repercussions, but God doesn’t desire that we beat down children. His discipline is always designed to reach and transform our heart for Him. Just as we should intentionally strive to do with the children He entrusted to our care. Correcting our children means to instruct and guide in ways that lead to Christlikeness and connection through heart change . Remember, lack of discipline can cause destructive or ungodly morals and behavior. So does the wrong kind of discipline. Discipline offered in anger can destroy connection and confidence in the parent, then ultimately in Christ. Spanking doesn’t show loving discipline that exhibits clear connection between the action of the child and the consequence. Spanking is often given in anger or bitterness, frustration or embarrassment, or even because of a feeling of disrespect. Spanking often resembles beating and can inflict injury, but doesn’t reach the heart of the child. Also, parents often spank in the heat of the moment and can accidentally abuse their child. Since spanking isn’t tied to natural consequences of the behavior, it has often been shown to increase aggressiveness in children. Instead of resorting to spanking quickly, pay attention to the times your child is misbehaving. Could it be when you’re very distracted or busy and your child is trying to get your attention? Is your child misbehaving because he is tired or hungry? Look for the root cause and discipline to bring about godly discipleship. Remember, discipline should be loving guidance and correction that disciples the heart , not a form of punishment. Discipline comes in many forms. Children are unique. There is no “one size meets all requirements” approach. But I do believe every parent should see the word discipline as discipleship to keep them accountable to building relationship and connection between their child and God. All godly correction should allow children to grow up with closer connection to Christ and family, and a joy-filled life with respect for their Heavenly Father and society. Discipline should be a step that builds transformation of the heart of your child. If a parent still intends to spank, I do not recommend it as a first form of correction. Just as I said earlier, children are unique on purpose. Just as God reaches each of us in different ways over time, parents must find what form of discipline works for each child. Be careful not to use a strong-willed child as an excuse to spank. Find ways to craft that strong will into a strong heart for godliness and with connection for Christ. Your child’s will must be guided, not squashed into rebellion. Alternate means of correction might be: loss of privileges, time out, time in, stern looks, hand signals, a hushed voice, work, or redirection of behavior. Use your situation to find natural consequences for teaching your children, but always remain mindful of the objective of stepping them closer to God and changing their heart for Him through the form of correction you choose. When a child consistently misbehaves or disobeys, it’s important to locate theroot cause in order to reach their heart for change. Remember, discipline should be correction and training toward discipleship, not punishment. Discipline should be designed as an instrument that assists in correcting behavior and facilitating heart change . Spanking doesn’t get to the core of what needs correcting. Correcting behavior (which stems from the heart of your child) allows you to draw your child’s heart nearer to Christ. Addressing heart issues moves the child closer to transformation, both in the heart and in the behavior that stems from it . Spanking punishes, but doesn’t change the heart, except perhaps planting bitterness that can place a wedge between parent and child, or more importantly, between Christ and child. Proverbs 9:10 which says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding .” Apart from the Lord we don’t have wisdom or understanding. Both are needed as you prayerfully determine whether God calls you to spank His children. Remember, that in order to change behavior, children should also see that their parents acknowledge their own personal sins. They need to understand that Mom and Dad repent to God. Then they understand that correction is a lifelong process for both children and adults. They begin to understand that we all need behavior that is fitting to the Lord. Everyone needs to honor God and submit to Him so we develop obedience and closer relationship with Him. Consider this thought - spanking doesn’t teach children to obey the parent or obey God out of love, trust, and obedience. We know that God’s grace and mercy should be the motivator used to discipline children. Discipline should be intended to draw the heart and mind of children nearer to the heart and mind of God. Using discipleship as discipline is the way to reach the heart. God’s Word teaches, corrects, trains, equips, and forgives. Our method of correction should do the same and build a foundation for our children to desire God’s Word and ways. Make sure you and your spouse are prayerfully aligned, so you’ll follow how God instructs you to discipline to disciple. Dear Heavenly Father, we praise You for Your mercy and goodness to us. Thank you for gifting us with the honor and privilege of raising Your children. Thank you for Your patience and forgiveness in our lives. Please show us the way to mentor our children with Your loving kindness. Don’t let us forget the holy authority You entrusted to us with the responsibility of parenting Your precious children, even on the most challenging days. Help us to seek You in every way, including the way we discipline to disciple. Help us keep You in the forefront of our mind so we remember the truth that discipling should be correcting and directing, not punishing. Help our children love, trust, honor, and obey You because they see us do the same. Show us the way to the hearts of the children in our care. Transform us daily because we continue to seek You and rest and abide in Your capable arms. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. This is the part of the episode that you usually hear me talk about the Set-Apart Collective. Today I want to share about my new mini program called “Establish Identity.” Why? Your identity is a major force behind what you do. Who you believe yourself to be, and who you find your identity through affects the way you live, parent, love, serve, and discipline. Your identity is one of the lifelines, a pulse point of your home. Do you ever stop to think that you are the first Jesus your child will see? Even if they are grown, your identity affects your child. The way you think, speak, and react is rooted in your identity. Send me a message at info@terrihitt.com if you’d like details or go to terrihitt.com and join my email list. You’ll get updates before anyone else and hear a little about what makes this so important. If you join the email list you’ll also be able to access free resources such as my new Good to Godly: A 31 Day Scripture and Prayer Guide for Moms. One last thing to remember - if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection with your children and Christ. Previous Next

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast- Episode 107 - Why It's Important to Teach Your Child to Prioritize Jesus Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 107 – Why It’s Important to Teach Your Child to Prioritize Jesus Thank you for sharing your day with me. I pray this podcast gives you the awareness and tools you need to STOP being a GOOD mom and BECOME the GODLY mom God entrusts you to be. Then you will be the SET-APART woman PURPOSELY raising children to chase CHRIST over culture. Just a quick reminder as we start, if you enjoy Purposed Parent Connected Child podcast episodes, would you please share this episode or others with a friend or family member? When you graciously take a moment to do that, and leave a rating or review at Apple Podcast, you are ensuring that others will find the podcast. When you do, you’re helping affect generations for Jesus. Now on to this episode about why it’s important to teach your child to prioritize Jesus… One of the highlights of my days is sharing Bible study with my two youngest daughters. Teaching the truths of God, maturing our faith together, and viewing their faith growth is a gift and blessing I never take for granted. Because we share this time, I get to hear their questions and answers, see those “aha” moments, and watch them practice their faith in daily life situations. I know I’m not responsible for their faith in Christ, for God does the work within each of us. But I do know that one decision my husband and I made years ago became the foundation upon which their faith is grounded. We committed to raising our child for Him, no matter what obstacles life threw at us. When we knew God was calling us to adopt our sweet baby girl from China in 2005, we prayerfully and purposely created a parenting plan that would be the root of biblical training she (and a sister we brought home ten years later) would receive. Because we had already parented one set of children and experienced maturing faith in Christ, my husband and I had the gift of knowing what we wanted to change and what we thought worked well the first time we parented. You probably know that I often talk about being a good versus godly parent. When I tell you that I was a good parent the first time and a godly parent in my second round of parenting, I mean that I no longer rely on self. This parenting shift has nothing to do with my children, but everything to do with honoring God with the children He entrusted to me. As my personal faith grew and I realized how parenting values in this world are so far from what God desires, I knew what I offered was a shadow of what God commands. When raising my first two, I loved the Lord, but got sidetracked without knowing it. I never realized I was a good mom who unintentionally valued the world more than the Word . How is your life? Are you intentionally living with an eternal perspective that propels you to invite Jesus to rule over your life moment my moment? Maybe you’re His, but you haven’t really submitted to daily living under His Lordship. It’s not too late. Do it today. Do it now. You see, in order to desire to raise godly children, then complete that high calling, you must be intentional . Purposed . Jesus must be the focus of your parenting . You can’t simply hope to raise kind, successful, well-adjusted kids, because they’ll be raised on the standards of this world . Without purposely teaching your kids strong and intentional identity through Christ, your children won’t have lasting joy, hope, or peace. Those qualities and gifts are only present when your child is filled with the Holy Spirit and submitted to Christ themselves. As parents, we can know we love God, be His through salvation through Jesus, but still unknowingly focus on world more than Word. How? Because we are human. We get distracted. We think that just because we love Jesus and have called Him to be our Lord and Savior that our children will do the same. But with hectic schedules and all that comes with work, home life, raising kids, fostering relationships, and you know the list goes on…unless you commit to God and with your spouse that you will do whatever it takes to raise your children for Jesus with purpose each day, time will slip away. This is why it’s important that you prioritize Christ. Moment by moment. That’s how you will teach your children to prioritize Jesus. Deuteronomy 6:5-8 says, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. ” Consider your home life…honestly. Do your days reflect you and your spouse loving God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength? Are God’s commandments on your hearts moment by moment? Is God top of mind or is it the newest designer bag or the errands you need to run? God made His command for parents very clear. Love Him with all your heart – with all your soul – with all your strength . You can’t do that if you don’t have a purposed relationship with Jesus. One that is growing , widening , and deepening moment by moment. Know God and His Word so you can teach your children His truths . Study God’s Word daily. Teach Him to your children moment by moment. This world is filled with deceit. How will you – how will your children recognize deceit if you don’t know God’s Word? You simply can’t . You will not recognize the lies of this world, of culture, of society, of flesh unless you know and follow God’s truths. Plant God’s commands on your heart. Impress them on your children. Not as a sword raised over their heads, but as truth you know, believe, love, and follow moment by moment. Consider this truth: You are the first Jesus your children see . How are you representing Him? Are you drawing your children toward God and His Word? Or do you ignorantly send them into the world to absorb deceit as truth? Talk about the Lord at home , on the road , when you lie down , and when you get up . Weave Him into your soul so that you breathe Him into all you do. What does this look like? This means you know Jesus well through fellowship and submission to the Word, God’s truths, and that you love and honor the Lord so much that you prioritize Him and place Him on the throne of your day. Start with Bible study, even if you have to get up earlier or listen instead of read some days. Make sure you are inhaling truth so that you can exhale truth to your children . Knowing and teaching God’s truths creates a solid foundation for your child to build on. Because you are teaching His Truth , you will begin teaching respect for God. You will teach honor and obedience to Him. Psalm 111:10 says, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts have good understanding. To Him belongs eternal praise .” What else does this look like? Showing godly character even when no one is watching. It means following God when you relax as a family. The shows you watch, the music you listen to, the books and magazines you read should be evaluated through a lens of Christlike scrutiny. It sounds challenging. I know. We’re human. But as you submit to God in these areas, you will see the difference He makes in your life, the life of your spouse, and the life of your children and family as a whole. When you profess Jesus as your Savior, it takes effort to grow that relationship, just like it does with each person in your life. It’s frighteningly easy to drift away from the Lord and close relationship with Him. All it takes it you doing nothing. Falling into a pattern or not reading the Word, not praying, not listening for His voice and not obeying immediately when you do hear instruction. It’s taking shortcuts because you say you’re too busy, but we all know deep down that we can make time for what we really want to do. God deserves your attention. He deserves all glory and praise. As you are careful about how you live, as you teach your children about God, about relationship with Jesus, and to know truth and recognize deceit, you will also teach respect and praise for God. Ephesians 5:1-20 says, “Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them. “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. But everything exposed by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light. This is why it is said: “Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ .” How convicting this passage is. We need to be convicted by God’s Word, lest we continue to fall away in ways we consider small day by day…and lead our children with us . We cannot lead our children to the Way unless we live the Word. There are several important, simple truths you can easily weave into conversations with your children. These will undergird the foundation you build on Christ. Discuss these during Bible studies, show them in your words and actions daily. I’ll share some now. · God has good guidelines or commands that we must obey. · God gives Mom and Dad guidelines, too. The most important is to teach our children about Jesus. · We must fear God - which means loving and respecting Who He is. · God gives grace. · Jesus is the way to relationship with God. · The Bible (God’s Word) leads us to His truths and relationship with Jesus · Relationship with Jesus gives us the Holy Spirit. · The Holy Spirit guides us in all truth and gives us the fruits of the Spirit. · We receive godly wisdom when we obey God. · We cannot make wise or godly choices without God’s truths and wisdom. · God is truth, so He perfectly guides us in truth. · The book of Genesis in the Bible gives us the keys to a godly life that is pleasing to our Father. · The book of Romans in the Bible shows God’s righteousness. Exodus 20:12 says, “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you .” Also lovingly teach your children that they respect God when they honor, respect, and obey you - their parent. Then do not exasperate them . Do not ignorantly show your children the world instead of the Way. God has many reasons for calling children to respect parents. When children respect God, they desire to please Him . When a child desires to please God, they build more connection and stability within the family. When family members are all respectful of and loving to one another, they honor God. A family unit is built that shines Christ in society. When this happens, the community is strengthened because family is a central component to building a strong culture, government, and world. Your children must understand that God is sovereign . They won’t learn that fact unless you believe and teach it. God must be honored. He is the Creator of all. He deserves honor and praise. As each person is created in God’s image and for His good purposes, we must intentionally treat one another with love, honor, and respect. When we direct our children to prioritize Him above all else, we train our children to rely on God and His strength within them. As they travel through life, no matter what they face, this godly mind and heart attitude will teach them to submit to their Heavenly Father. Instead of walking beside Him, they will invite Him to carry them. Assess which areas you should place focus to strengthen in 2025. Look at where you may have failed in the past. Look at the strengths you hold for building relationship with Jesus in your home. Prayerfully seek God and ask what He desires you to release. Where does He want you to focus so that you and your family see and shine Him more freely and diligently? How can you joyfully (and with open hands) direct your children to prioritize Jesus? What will you change now so you will guide your children to His Word, Truths, and feet? It’s timely that this episode is coming out just before Christmas. As you run around doing tasks such as decorating and cooking, buying presents, and having parties, enjoy yourself! Have fun experiencing the holidays, but please remember to think of this season as we imagine God does. Jesus is first. Forgive the cliché, but He is the reason for the season. We experience Christmas in the ways of the world, and as parents, we try to make the holiday a memorable and beautiful one. I’m sure God loves to see us give and spread happiness, but true joy only comes from Him – the Holy Spirit living within us. Praise God for Jesus. Thank you, Jesus for all You sacrificed for us. Please remember to stop this year (if you haven’t already) and allow your focus to shift to an eternal lens. Put Jesus first and foremost in your activities. Create new traditions that shine more focus on Him – where it needs to be. Allow your children to experience the wonder of Christ and help them deepen their walk this Christmas. It’s the only gift that will last into eternity. Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that guides and guards us. Thank you for Jesus who enables us to have joyful relationship with You that lasts into eternity. Help us to be godly mothers who place Jesus first as we progress through our days. Each moment is gone so quickly that time passes before we realize we haven’t focused on what You deem important. Forgive us our negligence and disobedience. Help us seek You more intimately and openly. Help us shine You into our families in ways that change generations for Jesus. In His precious name we pray. Amen. Raising children is challenging. No one has all the answers because each child is unique as are parenting styles and family dynamics. By connecting with and knowing your children as you maintain purposed growth in Christ, you will be better prepared for any situation you face. That’s why you hear me share about the Set-Apart Collective in this podcast. I work with professionals who care about making Jesus known to their children. Are you a high-achieving woman who loves Jesus, but is so busy with the rush of work and daily life that you feel like you’re being drained like the water in your bathtub? Do you yearn to get closer to Jesus and show Him to your kids so you will create a love that will last into eternity? The desire is there, but your days spiral out of control before you even think about opening your Bible. Do you ever stop to think that you are the first Jesus your child will see? Let me remind you there is hope. There is a way you can be equipped to raise kids who chase Christ over culture. If you want a connected relationship with Christ and your children that leads them to your side and His feet, instead of them seeking validation from peers, I have an 8-step program to move you from frustrated to fulfilled. I will show you how to reflect Jesus in a way that attracts your family to a connected relationship that lasts into eternity. Remember, godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset you carry. If you don’t want peers and culture to be the main influence over your child, if you desire to parent to “prepare” your child for eternity with Christ, not repair your relationship with them, the Set-Apart Collective will arm you with a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You’ll also deepen your identity in Christ so you can mentor the way for your children to do the same. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family and you will have the tools to raise set apart kids as you parent the heart, not simply the behavior. Does this sound like a lifeline to help you be that set-apart mom God has entrusted you to be? Visit terrihitt.com/coaching and click the link for a free, no obligation conversation call with me. This is a strategic call where I will hear your biggest struggle and show you how to turn it into a blessing that will bring you closer to Christ and your children. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. Time is short. Make yours matter for eternity. One last thing to remember - if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection with your children and Christ. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #132 – Am I Hearing You, God? Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. January, 2018 was the last time I spoke to my father-in-law. Sadly, he passed from cancer shortly after his 80th birthday. One of his best qualities and one of the things I loved most about him is that he was always ready to talk about Jesus to anyone at any time. Beyond the gospel or how Christ has changed my life, I also enjoy sharing what I call God-stories. The Lord has done so much in my life, changing me from the inside, and has provided for me beyond my wildest dreams. One of the ways He has done this is by speaking directly to me and helping me learn to love, worship, and obey Him. People have often asked me how I know when God is speaking to me. How do I know I am hearing Him through the noise, distractions, and fleshly desires that seem to be so much louder in this world? When I think about hearing from God, I think of our perfect example, Jesus. What a beautiful mentor for showing us how to hear God! I’m far from the example Christ set, but Jesus surely showed us the way to mature every aspect of our Christian walk and our relationship with the Father; especially how to hear the voice of God and respond in obedience to Him. Did you know that Jesus did not begin His earthly ministry until He was 30 years old and filled by the Holy Spirit? Philippians 2:5-7 says, “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.” If we pay attention to and study Scripture, we see that Jesus showed us how to walk with and hear from God. Through Him, we learn that the Holy Spirit, who lives inside every believer will guide us in the Truth. John 16:13 says, “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth, for He will not speak on his own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak, and He will declare to you the things that are to come.” When we become believers of Christ, the Holy Spirit living within us will help us to hear from and to speak to our Heavenly Father. Romans 8:26-27 says, “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.” Jesus teaches us that: 1. God desires personal relationship. John 8:47 says, “Whoever is of God hears the words of God. The reason why you do not hear them is that you are not of God.” John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” 2. God calls us to repent and listen. Proverbs 3:6 says, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” 3. God calls us to connect through prayer. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” 4. God calls us to know Him. Psalm 119:160 says, “The sum of Your word is truth, and every one of Your righteous rules endures forever.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” 5. God wants us to get rid of distractions and focus on Him. Proverbs 3:5-7 says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil.” 6. God calls us to renew our mind so it is in alignment with His. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” 7. God calls us to humble ourselves before Him. John 10:27 says, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” 8. God calls us to seek His wisdom, discernment, and guidance. Psalm 27:11a says, “Teach me Your way, O LORD, and lead me on a level path.” Jeremiah 33:3 says, “Call to Me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.” 9. God speaks in different ways to each person, but always in alignment with Scripture. Isaiah 30:21 says, “And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left.” Deuteronomy 13:4 says, “You shall walk after the LORD your God and fear Him and keep His commandments and obey His voice, and you shall serve Him and hold fast to Him.” 10. God assures us that those who love and follow Him will hear His voice. John 10:4-5 says, “When He has brought out all his own, He goes before them, and the sheep follow Him, for they know His voice. A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from Him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” John 10:27 says, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” How Can You Ensure You Hear From God? 1. Study His Word – Read and study the Bible so you know God’s Word, His character, commands, promises, holiness, sovereignty, and love. Then you will recognize and respond to Him. We make time for what we want to do. 2. Recognize His Voice – Once you recognize His voice, remember that God can speak loudly, as a warning to keep you from danger or to provide and protect – or He can speak softly, depending on the need and situation. He also finds personal ways to speak to each believer and follower. Situations, people, and whispering in your spirit may be some of the ways. He may speak differently to you, but God will never speak anything to you that goes against His holy Word. Know His Word and know Him, then you will recognize Him speaking to you. 3. Focus on God – Thoughts, desires, hurts, confusion, and a variety of other things can keep you from centering your mind on Him. Staying in His word, studying God’s Word, consistent prayer with Him, and intentionally maturing your walk are ways to quiet your spirit and prepare to meet and hear Him at any time. 4. Pray Scripture – Even if you have to read verses from the Bible as you speak to God, pray His powerful words to Him. As you read and pray about the splendor, holiness, sovereignty, and love of God or read His promises and truths, it becomes easier to focus on pleasing Him, praising Him, serving Him, and obeying Him. 5. Talk to God and Listen For God – Spend quiet time with the Lord, but also abide with Him through each day. Share with God. Ask Him to speak to you. You must have the desire to hear God before you will listen for Him. Be prepared to listen, pray, and obey. Make sure to check what you believe God is saying to you against Scripture and the character of God. God does speak to His children. Sometimes He fills our mind and heart with His desires, sometimes He whispers gentle commands for us to obey. Other times, God places people in our path to direct us. At other times, God may issue loud warnings in our spirit. Sometimes a Bible verse or passage may be the exact word we need. Sometimes events happen that are so personal and unique that we know the finger of God has extended to earth. These are not the only ways God works or speaks. I know the ways He usually reaches me. I’m forever thankful for my Father and pray that I am always able to hear His voice and follow His commands more clearly and quickly each day of my life. What are some benefits of making sure you clearly hear God? God’s Word and Voice Give Peace. Philippians 4:7 says, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” God’s Word and Voice Hold Wisdom. Proverbs 11:14 says, “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.” and Ecclesiastes 7:12 says, “For the protection of wisdom is like the protection of money, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of him who has it.” God’s Word and Voice Convict. John 16:8 says, “And when He comes, He will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.” God’s Word and Voice give Rest. Matthew 11:28-30 says, “Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” God’s Word and Voice Remove Fear. John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” God’s Word and Voice are Truth. John 14:6 says, “Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” God’s Word and Voice Discern. Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” God’s Word and Voice offer Strength. Psalm 73:26 says, “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” God’s Word and Voice offer Hope. Hebrews 10:23 says, “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.” The closer we draw to Christ, the clearer we hear our Father speak. Jesus shows us the way to God and the way to clearly hear His voice. Our patient Father waits for us to seek His wisdom, guidance, and discernment. Know He personally speaks to each of us, but also remember that His voice always aligns with Scripture and His character. Dear Heavenly Father, You are so good. Your patient guidance calls to us to seek You and follow where You lead. Thank you for the personal and intimate care You long to offer each of us who know and follow You. God, Your loving kindness is overwhelming. We pray that Your voice is the one we seek and hear. We pray that we hear You more clearly than our desires and demands. May we draw ever nearer to Christ and allow You to carry us to the heights You have purposed for us because they glorify You and draw others even nearer to You and Your ways. Father do not exalt us, but fill us with Your beautiful promises and provisions. Bring others to You. Help us walk and stay within Your guidelines and grow in the ways You purpose so that we may hear Your voice. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to the “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast. Remember that you may find transcripts online at terrihitt.com. On the website you may also find my “Purposed Parent/Connected Child” podcast and transcripts. Both podcasts are also available on iHeart Radio, Spotify, and they are part of the Spark Media Network. Both podcasts may also now be found on the Edifi app, where you can hear thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed my podcasts on Apple Podcasts yet? When you review my podcast on Apple Podcasts, it helps to elevate the standing of the podcast online so that more people are allowed to find and hear it. Will you take a moment to follow the shows and think of someone you can share the podcasts with and encourage them to follow and share, as well? Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will direct them away from Christ. Live With Eternal Perspective helps us to find, trust, and follow Christ more intimately. Purposed Parent/Connected Child shares biblical, practical truths for parents and grandparents to influence and mentor Christ over culture. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 132 - Am I Hearing You God? Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #132 – Am I Hearing You, God? Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. January, 2018 was the last time I spoke to my father-in-law. Sadly, he passed from cancer shortly after his 80th birthday. One of his best qualities and one of the things I loved most about him is that he was always ready to talk about Jesus to anyone at any time. Beyond the gospel or how Christ has changed my life, I also enjoy sharing what I call God-stories. The Lord has done so much in my life, changing me from the inside, and has provided for me beyond my wildest dreams. One of the ways He has done this is by speaking directly to me and helping me learn to love, worship, and obey Him. People have often asked me how I know when God is speaking to me. How do I know I am hearing Him through the noise, distractions, and fleshly desires that seem to be so much louder in this world? When I think about hearing from God, I think of our perfect example, Jesus. What a beautiful mentor for showing us how to hear God! I’m far from the example Christ set, but Jesus surely showed us the way to mature every aspect of our Christian walk and our relationship with the Father; especially how to hear the voice of God and respond in obedience to Him. Did you know that Jesus did not begin His earthly ministry until He was 30 years old and filled by the Holy Spirit? Philippians 2:5-7 says, “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.” If we pay attention to and study Scripture, we see that Jesus showed us how to walk with and hear from God. Through Him, we learn that the Holy Spirit, who lives inside every believer will guide us in the Truth. John 16:13 says, “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth, for He will not speak on his own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak, and He will declare to you the things that are to come.” When we become believers of Christ, the Holy Spirit living within us will help us to hear from and to speak to our Heavenly Father. Romans 8:26-27 says, “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.” Jesus teaches us that: 1. God desires personal relationship. John 8:47 says, “Whoever is of God hears the words of God. The reason why you do not hear them is that you are not of God.” John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” 2. God calls us to repent and listen. Proverbs 3:6 says, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” 3. God calls us to connect through prayer. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” 4. God calls us to know Him. Psalm 119:160 says, “The sum of Your word is truth, and every one of Your righteous rules endures forever.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” 5. God wants us to get rid of distractions and focus on Him. Proverbs 3:5-7 says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil.” 6. God calls us to renew our mind so it is in alignment with His. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” 7. God calls us to humble ourselves before Him. John 10:27 says, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” 8. God calls us to seek His wisdom, discernment, and guidance. Psalm 27:11a says, “Teach me Your way, O LORD, and lead me on a level path.” Jeremiah 33:3 says, “Call to Me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.” 9. God speaks in different ways to each person, but always in alignment with Scripture. Isaiah 30:21 says, “And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left.” Deuteronomy 13:4 says, “You shall walk after the LORD your God and fear Him and keep His commandments and obey His voice, and you shall serve Him and hold fast to Him.” 10. God assures us that those who love and follow Him will hear His voice. John 10:4-5 says, “When He has brought out all his own, He goes before them, and the sheep follow Him, for they know His voice. A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from Him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” John 10:27 says, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” How Can You Ensure You Hear From God? 1. Study His Word – Read and study the Bible so you know God’s Word, His character, commands, promises, holiness, sovereignty, and love. Then you will recognize and respond to Him. We make time for what we want to do. 2. Recognize His Voice – Once you recognize His voice, remember that God can speak loudly, as a warning to keep you from danger or to provide and protect – or He can speak softly, depending on the need and situation. He also finds personal ways to speak to each believer and follower. Situations, people, and whispering in your spirit may be some of the ways. He may speak differently to you, but God will never speak anything to you that goes against His holy Word. Know His Word and know Him, then you will recognize Him speaking to you. 3. Focus on God – Thoughts, desires, hurts, confusion, and a variety of other things can keep you from centering your mind on Him. Staying in His word, studying God’s Word, consistent prayer with Him, and intentionally maturing your walk are ways to quiet your spirit and prepare to meet and hear Him at any time. 4. Pray Scripture – Even if you have to read verses from the Bible as you speak to God, pray His powerful words to Him. As you read and pray about the splendor, holiness, sovereignty, and love of God or read His promises and truths, it becomes easier to focus on pleasing Him, praising Him, serving Him, and obeying Him. 5. Talk to God and Listen For God – Spend quiet time with the Lord, but also abide with Him through each day. Share with God. Ask Him to speak to you. You must have the desire to hear God before you will listen for Him. Be prepared to listen, pray, and obey. Make sure to check what you believe God is saying to you against Scripture and the character of God. God does speak to His children. Sometimes He fills our mind and heart with His desires, sometimes He whispers gentle commands for us to obey. Other times, God places people in our path to direct us. At other times, God may issue loud warnings in our spirit. Sometimes a Bible verse or passage may be the exact word we need. Sometimes events happen that are so personal and unique that we know the finger of God has extended to earth. These are not the only ways God works or speaks. I know the ways He usually reaches me. I’m forever thankful for my Father and pray that I am always able to hear His voice and follow His commands more clearly and quickly each day of my life. What are some benefits of making sure you clearly hear God? God’s Word and Voice Give Peace. Philippians 4:7 says, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” God’s Word and Voice Hold Wisdom. Proverbs 11:14 says, “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.” and Ecclesiastes 7:12 says, “For the protection of wisdom is like the protection of money, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of him who has it.” God’s Word and Voice Convict. John 16:8 says, “And when He comes, He will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.” God’s Word and Voice give Rest. Matthew 11:28-30 says, “Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” God’s Word and Voice Remove Fear. John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” God’s Word and Voice are Truth. John 14:6 says, “Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” God’s Word and Voice Discern. Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” God’s Word and Voice offer Strength. Psalm 73:26 says, “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” God’s Word and Voice offer Hope. Hebrews 10:23 says, “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.” The closer we draw to Christ, the clearer we hear our Father speak. Jesus shows us the way to God and the way to clearly hear His voice. Our patient Father waits for us to seek His wisdom, guidance, and discernment. Know He personally speaks to each of us, but also remember that His voice always aligns with Scripture and His character. Dear Heavenly Father, You are so good. Your patient guidance calls to us to seek You and follow where You lead. Thank you for the personal and intimate care You long to offer each of us who know and follow You. God, Your loving kindness is overwhelming. We pray that Your voice is the one we seek and hear. We pray that we hear You more clearly than our desires and demands. May we draw ever nearer to Christ and allow You to carry us to the heights You have purposed for us because they glorify You and draw others even nearer to You and Your ways. Father do not exalt us, but fill us with Your beautiful promises and provisions. Bring others to You. Help us walk and stay within Your guidelines and grow in the ways You purpose so that we may hear Your voice. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to the “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast. Remember that you may find transcripts online at terrihitt.com. On the website you may also find my “Purposed Parent/Connected Child” podcast and transcripts. Both podcasts are also available on iHeart Radio, Spotify, and they are part of the Spark Media Network. Both podcasts may also now be found on the Edifi app, where you can hear thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed my podcasts on Apple Podcasts yet? When you review my podcast on Apple Podcasts, it helps to elevate the standing of the podcast online so that more people are allowed to find and hear it. Will you take a moment to follow the shows and think of someone you can share the podcasts with and encourage them to follow and share, as well? Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will direct them away from Christ. Live With Eternal Perspective helps us to find, trust, and follow Christ more intimately. Purposed Parent/Connected Child shares biblical, practical truths for parents and grandparents to influence and mentor Christ over culture. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 037 - Life Lessons From my Teen Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Purposed Parent/Connected Child Podcast Episode #037 – Life Lessons From my Teen Thank you for listening to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast. My prayer is that you and I will parent with purpose and confidently connect with Christ and our children moment by moment. Since my middle daughter recently graduated from high school, I enjoy listening to her thoughts on childhood and her upbringing. While sharing a walk in the neighborhood recently, I spontaneously asked her to share 3 things she thought I did well while raising her. Would you like to hear her response? The top 3 things my daughter believes helped shape the morals she holds as a young adult were: 1. Church/Service – Because she was raised going to church out of reverence and love for God, and we were very active in many activities and committees as she was growing up, my daughter believes it taught her to make God a priority and that serving in the areas He calls you to at church is an act of love and obedience. Every committee meeting I could bring my daughter to, I made sure she was present. Sometimes my husband took her to his. My daughter helped set up for events, she danced at meetings and programs, and she helped make decorations. When I prepared materials for VBS, she helped. When I had to clean up after VBS, she helped. When we opened our home several times to house out of town college students, she was part of the conversations we had. Everything she could take part in, we allowed. Now she is a four-time Presidential Gold Service Award winner and has hours logged in other years that she never submitted for awards. Serving is natural for her and now, as an adult Christian she knows that she is serving for Him above all. 2. Awareness – Because we taught her to be selective and careful about what clothing she wore and what types of music she listened to, my daughter believes she learned a foundational understanding of being conscious of how she presents herself and what she allows to reside in her mind. She believes that how she learned to manage what she allowed into her mind taught her to carefully consider what she listens to or watches. For example, we taught her not to wear a bikini out in public as we did not want her to desire wearing scanty clothing when she was a tween or teen. We didn’t allow short shorts or shorts and sweats with writing on the bottom. Looking forward to the future with present decisions made a huge difference in what she came to desire as she matured. 3. Respect – Because my daughter feels that my husband and I respected the gifts and talents God placed within her, and that we helped and encouraged her to find and pursue them, she feels very blessed for our support. My daughter believes that when parents truly respect the child as a whole and unique person created by God, it makes it much easier to find the passions He crafted within and allows a stronger parent/child relationship. She felt that we actually paid attention to who she is and not what we wanted her to be or become. I enjoyed hearing her answers so much. I want to state that I didn’t know what she would say and truly, her answers surprised me. They weren’t the answers I thought she would give, but I’m so thankful for the ways God spoke to us while raising her. I thankful for the tiny acts that we made consistently over the years. They paid off for her and us in the best ways now that our daughter is facing young adult years. Please mothers, use what I shared to remember that what you do matters ! Continue to seek God’s Word and use it in practical, godly ways. Proverbs 4:5 says, “Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn away from them .” Ask God for the wisdom to raise your children wisely. Ask Him to lead you in raising godly children who know and honor Him. Ask Him to keep you consistent in pursuing and shining Him to your children and family. Making God a priority and remaining in Him over the years will teach your children that your faith is real because God is. If you’d like to hear more, I will release an interview with my daughter this summer. I’ll be sure to let you know when it airs. Remember, I’m not sharing this with you because I think I’m the greatest mother. I share because anything that worked well came from God. I know anything I did well came from His wisdom. Mothers, continue looking Up and seek Him in all decisions. Although I fall short, He still lifts up what I offer and multiplies beyond my wildest dreams. He will absolutely do the same for you. Dear Heavenly Father, Your goodness to us is overwhelming. Your love is beyond what we can comprehend. How faithful You are. I thank you for all You are and do in our lives. Father, even when we absolutely do not deserve Your best, You still offer it. Thank you. Lord, please help me, help each of us to continue to seek You through Your Word, prayer, and service in all the ways You call and desire. Help us to hear You clearly because we seek You consistently. May we, and our children, please You more each day. In the precious name of Jesus I pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to the “Purposed Parent/Connected Child” podcast. This summer the episodes will be shorter and I may occasionally offer favorite replays as I spend time with my family and follow a special collective I believe God is calling me to complete for Him. Remember, this podcast, and the “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast, may be found at terrihitt.com, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Spotify, and they are part of the Spark Media Network. Both podcasts may also now be found on the Edifi app, where you can hear thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed my podcasts on Apple Podcasts yet? Did you know that when you review my podcasts on Apple, it helps to elevate the standing of the podcasts online so that more people are allowed to find and hear them. Will you please take a moment to follow the shows and think of someone you can share the podcasts with and encourage them to follow and share, as well? Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway them away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Parent and Connect With Eternal Perspective. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #021 – Peace That Passes Understanding Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Our topic today. Peace that passes understanding. Who doesn’t want to claim that? In the midst of writing this particular podcast episode, I experienced a morning that was far from peaceful. Are you a believer that there is spiritual warfare in the world? Ephesians 6:12 says, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” It was real today. But, as we know, God always has the final victory. Does it mean things always turn out the way we want them to? No. In fact, sometimes things get worse before they get better. But God has already and will always be the victor. Several things went wrong as I attempted to start my day and work on this episode. After I had breakfast I tuned in to listen to the podcast I had just released. I don’t always listen after the episode releases, but I kept having little thoughts that I should. About three minutes in, I realized the unedited version was aired instead of the final cut. “Oh my gosh. Oh my gosh, No, no, no.” I kept repeating. Stunned that the wrong version was being played to anyone tuning in, I was so upset. After the podcast episode was removed and the correct one aired, I realized I was still sad inside and wondered how many people had heard how terrible it sounded. I strive each week to write, record, and produce episodes that I believe God is calling and directing. I want to quality to continue to improve each week. When I heard the episode with several mistakes, it really hurt. I didn’t want people to think I didn’t care about what went out or to get too focused on the errors to hear the value behind what I was trying to say. Anxiety does not visit me often, but oh, I could feel it rising in the pit of my stomach that morning. I had to make myself focus and sit down to pray. I asked God to remove the feelings I was having and to allow me to absorb His peace, knowing that this mistake was not the worst thing that could ever happen. I stayed, and resting in God’s presence, talking to Him, until I felt His peace cover and protect me. Although it was distressing to have, and to work to quickly resolve the episode mix-up, the person most affected throughout the day was my husband. It seemed that everything he tried to do brought more problems that he had to tackle or correct. One after another issue popped to his attention and took up his time until evening arrived and it seemed he received a reprieve. You know those days. We all get to experience them. While we cannot escape the dreaded, “bad day,” we can monitor and shift our attitude and heartitude to remember what Jeremiah 12:3a says, “But as for me, Lord, you know my heart. You see me and test my thoughts.” We must continue to train ourselves to allow obstacles to extract bitterness, anxiety, and dissatisfaction from within us. We must pray for them to as we place them in God’s capable hands. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” When we, as believers, release our anxiety to God we are trusting Him, believing that our Heavenly Father will give us His peace. Even more than just calmness, we receive God Himself, the Holy Spirit within us extending His presence, comfort, and protection. Have you felt it? The deepest tranquility flowing through you, extending past our level of understanding. Isaiah 26:3 says, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” When our mind is fixed on Him, when it “stays” on Him, He is faithful to His word. We have to remember Him – His strength and not rely on our own limited abilities. The verse from Isaiah relays the truth well. He keeps us in perfect peace when our mind is fixed on Him. When we trust that He will carry our loads, that He is able and desirous, we readily release our burdens to Him. Whenever I experience the slightest awareness of fear or stress, I must remember to immediately stop what I am doing and realize that means that I am attempting to carry concerns or hardships myself, which prompts me to pray. John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” God’s peace cannot be defined by the standards of the world. His ways are above our logic or limited understanding. John 16:33 says, “I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!” Pay attention that Jesus did not say, “If you have trouble.” He said, “When you have trouble.” Afflictions, burdens, irritations, and concerns will come. Even Jesus had hardships and troubles. Why should we expect anything less? Remember, obstacles are opportunities that press us into the arms of Jesus. We have the freedom to choose to let the experience, whether large or small, cause us to draw nearer to Him and grow in Him. Colossians 3:15 says, “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.” Peace is a gift extended as we believe and ask our Father to carry our loads. Hebrews 13:20-21 says, “Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. God so intensely desires peace to inhabit us that He is called “the God of Peace.” Peace is part of Who and What our Heavenly Father is. As believers carrying the indwelling Holy Spirit, we have that peace within us. As frail, sinful humans, we often forget that power and source because we rely on self unless we intentionally focus on Him and live with an eternal perspective mindset that pertains to all that we have been given or that affects us. Peace is absent in many, yet each of us desire it. When peace is not present in our life, it is often due to the pace we are living. Are we moving too fast? Do we set ourselves up to experience calmness or tranquility? Peace cannot exist when we move too fast to fix our spirit on God. Busy schedules and lifestyles don’t allow us time to fix our gaze above. Our heart must be given the opportunity to seek Him above all else. 2 Thessalonians 3:16a says, “Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way.” To experience peace we must abide in the Source. Isaiah 48:17-18a says, “This is what the Lord says—your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go. If only you had paid attention to My commands, your peace would have been like a river.” God knows what is best for us, and because He is a loving Father, we should listen to Him. Peace flows to those who pay heed to what God teaches and directs. We must seek to know Him in order to obey Him. As believers, it is our duty to seek Him. The closer we draw to Jesus, the more deeply we desire Him to lead our life. As we allow Him to work through us and we begin to experience the riches of a Christ-centered life, our love for Him deepens, causing us to aspire to higher obedience. Therefore, if peace is absent from our lives, there are certain questions we should stop to consider. 1. Who do I rely on? Self-reliance and reliance on God cannot co-exist. Peace cannot be present when we rely on self instead of God. 2. What do I hold in my heart? Are bitterness or unforgiveness weaving a thread through the tapestry of my emotions? Forgiveness is sometimes easily extended, but at other times, the hardships and pains of this world are too excruciating to release without total reliance on Jesus. Without erasing the disobedience of unforgiveness and bitterness from our spirit and heart, we cannot carry peace. 3. What are you afraid of? God does not give the spirit of fear. 4. How do I handle mistakes? Am I a perfectionist? Only God is perfect. Stop trying to be Him. 5. What do I value? Does materialism have a grip on me? What do I value? Where do I spend my time and money? 6. Who do I choose to grant time to? Who are the people I am with most? What kind of influence do they have on me? 7. What do I choose to grant time to? 8. Am I able to handle my emotions? Am I even-tempered? 9. What does my heart seek? 10. Where do I find my worth? Does the world carry more weight with my thoughts and actions or does the Holy Spirit living inside me influence my emotions and behavior? 1 Corinthians 13:11-13 says, “When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” As we intentionally mature in our Christian relationship through Jesus, we see more clearly all that the Lord has for us. Our walk leads us closer to Him in fresh ways as we discover life is not about our selfish whims and desires. Through study of His holy word, we learn ways to grow in and through Him to understand Him more clearly to please Him. As we do so, we draw the peace promised by God into our lives. 1. Know the Bible. In order to develop and deepen our on-going relationship with Jesus, we must read His word. In order to know Him and all that He desires, we have to know His word and seek and recognize His truths. Psalm 119:165 says, “Great peace have those who love Your law, and nothing causes them to stumble.” 2. Pray. Prayer is an integral and continuing responsibility and privilege for believers. Pray for God’s will and purpose in our life. Pray to see, know, and understand Him more clearly. Pray to make Him known to others. Pray for His peace and guidance. Psalm 85:8 says, “I will hear what God the Lord will speak, for He will speak peace to His people and to His saints; but let them not turn back to folly.” We hear God speak when we are close enough to listen. 3. Search our self and motives to ensure we live according to God’s ways and purposes. Proverbs 16:7 says, “When a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” 4. Release our dreams to Him. God created us and knows exactly what will truly fulfill us. Trust Him and His design for our life. If we live in opposition to what God desires for us, we never find peace. 1 Corinthians 14:33a says, “For God is not the author of confusion but of peace.” 5. Believe that obstacles are opportunities. Treat them as such. Our positive mindset allows the peace of God to reside within us. Allow Him to carry the burdens and fears. Matthew 11:28-30 says, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” 6. Obey God. Seek to please and rely on Him. Seek Him to know His will and ways and put them into effect in our life. Turn away from sin that may be restricting the peace of God. Ask God to seek your heart and reveal areas to you that need to be turned away from or repented and given to Him. 1 Peter 3:11 says, “Let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it.” 7. Gratitude, despite surroundings or events should be reflected in our heart, mind, words, and attitude. Isaiah 26:12 says, “Lord, You will establish peace for us, for You have also done all our works in us.” 8. Serve others less fortunate. When we look at others with a heart for and from the Lord, we seize the ways we can shine Him to others and it allows us to live with more grateful hearts. When we serve others, it causes us to examine our relationship with those we serve, and with God. Serving erases division and unites. James 3:18 says, “Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” Romans 12:18 says, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” Romans 14:19 says, “Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.” 2 Corinthians 13:11 says, “Finally, brothers rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” 9. Go outdoors. Sometimes a steady heart naturally flows through us when we seek solace in His creation. Ezekiel 34:25 says, “I will make a covenant of peace with them, and cause wild beasts to cease from the land; and they will dwell safely in the wilderness and sleep in the woods.” 10. Relax. God never called us to perfection. Learn to distinguish between what does not matter and can be let go. Concentrate on what God calls to attention in your life to reduce anxiety or stress. Psalm 29:11 says, “The Lord will give strength to His people; the Lord will bless His people with peace.” Other important questions to ponder are: Where do I find my peace? Is it ever-lasting? Does it come from trusting Jesus and my relationship with God through Him or from my surroundings and circumstances? God says He will give peace to His people. He longs for harmony and contentment to be fixed in our spirit and life. His encompassing peace truly can be well with our soul when we surrender regularly and naturally to God’s sovereignty over us and maintain a closeness that remains committed to keeping Him on the throne of our life. I want to share one more verse that is actually a promise from God. Isaiah 9:6 says, “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Prince of Peace. Jesus, the Prince of Peace lives within you when you are His. There is absolutely no greater power to give you or restore peace within you than Him. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, would you please make time to leave a review and rating for the show? Send me an email at thedoovermom@gmail.com if you don’t know how and I will walk you through step-by-step. I pray you find value in our weekly topics. In order for others to be able to hear about Jesus through Live With Eternal Perspective, I need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift this podcast higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Right now, because the podcast is new and the following is small, listeners won’t find it unless they specifically know the name to search for. Can you think of a friend who might enjoy encouragement? If so, please share this podcast with them so that they will also find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 021 Peace That Passes Understanding Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #021 – Peace That Passes Understanding Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Our topic today. Peace that passes understanding. Who doesn’t want to claim that? In the midst of writing this particular podcast episode, I experienced a morning that was far from peaceful. Are you a believer that there is spiritual warfare in the world? Ephesians 6:12 says, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” It was real today. But, as we know, God always has the final victory. Does it mean things always turn out the way we want them to? No. In fact, sometimes things get worse before they get better. But God has already and will always be the victor. Several things went wrong as I attempted to start my day and work on this episode. After I had breakfast I tuned in to listen to the podcast I had just released. I don’t always listen after the episode releases, but I kept having little thoughts that I should. About three minutes in, I realized the unedited version was aired instead of the final cut. “Oh my gosh. Oh my gosh, No, no, no.” I kept repeating. Stunned that the wrong version was being played to anyone tuning in, I was so upset. After the podcast episode was removed and the correct one aired, I realized I was still sad inside and wondered how many people had heard how terrible it sounded. I strive each week to write, record, and produce episodes that I believe God is calling and directing. I want to quality to continue to improve each week. When I heard the episode with several mistakes, it really hurt. I didn’t want people to think I didn’t care about what went out or to get too focused on the errors to hear the value behind what I was trying to say. Anxiety does not visit me often, but oh, I could feel it rising in the pit of my stomach that morning. I had to make myself focus and sit down to pray. I asked God to remove the feelings I was having and to allow me to absorb His peace, knowing that this mistake was not the worst thing that could ever happen. I stayed, and resting in God’s presence, talking to Him, until I felt His peace cover and protect me. Although it was distressing to have, and to work to quickly resolve the episode mix-up, the person most affected throughout the day was my husband. It seemed that everything he tried to do brought more problems that he had to tackle or correct. One after another issue popped to his attention and took up his time until evening arrived and it seemed he received a reprieve. You know those days. We all get to experience them. While we cannot escape the dreaded, “bad day,” we can monitor and shift our attitude and heartitude to remember what Jeremiah 12:3a says, “But as for me, Lord, you know my heart. You see me and test my thoughts.” We must continue to train ourselves to allow obstacles to extract bitterness, anxiety, and dissatisfaction from within us. We must pray for them to as we place them in God’s capable hands. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” When we, as believers, release our anxiety to God we are trusting Him, believing that our Heavenly Father will give us His peace. Even more than just calmness, we receive God Himself, the Holy Spirit within us extending His presence, comfort, and protection. Have you felt it? The deepest tranquility flowing through you, extending past our level of understanding. Isaiah 26:3 says, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” When our mind is fixed on Him, when it “stays” on Him, He is faithful to His word. We have to remember Him – His strength and not rely on our own limited abilities. The verse from Isaiah relays the truth well. He keeps us in perfect peace when our mind is fixed on Him. When we trust that He will carry our loads, that He is able and desirous, we readily release our burdens to Him. Whenever I experience the slightest awareness of fear or stress, I must remember to immediately stop what I am doing and realize that means that I am attempting to carry concerns or hardships myself, which prompts me to pray. John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” God’s peace cannot be defined by the standards of the world. His ways are above our logic or limited understanding. John 16:33 says, “I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!” Pay attention that Jesus did not say, “If you have trouble.” He said, “When you have trouble.” Afflictions, burdens, irritations, and concerns will come. Even Jesus had hardships and troubles. Why should we expect anything less? Remember, obstacles are opportunities that press us into the arms of Jesus. We have the freedom to choose to let the experience, whether large or small, cause us to draw nearer to Him and grow in Him. Colossians 3:15 says, “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.” Peace is a gift extended as we believe and ask our Father to carry our loads. Hebrews 13:20-21 says, “Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. God so intensely desires peace to inhabit us that He is called “the God of Peace.” Peace is part of Who and What our Heavenly Father is. As believers carrying the indwelling Holy Spirit, we have that peace within us. As frail, sinful humans, we often forget that power and source because we rely on self unless we intentionally focus on Him and live with an eternal perspective mindset that pertains to all that we have been given or that affects us. Peace is absent in many, yet each of us desire it. When peace is not present in our life, it is often due to the pace we are living. Are we moving too fast? Do we set ourselves up to experience calmness or tranquility? Peace cannot exist when we move too fast to fix our spirit on God. Busy schedules and lifestyles don’t allow us time to fix our gaze above. Our heart must be given the opportunity to seek Him above all else. 2 Thessalonians 3:16a says, “Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way.” To experience peace we must abide in the Source. Isaiah 48:17-18a says, “This is what the Lord says—your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go. If only you had paid attention to My commands, your peace would have been like a river.” God knows what is best for us, and because He is a loving Father, we should listen to Him. Peace flows to those who pay heed to what God teaches and directs. We must seek to know Him in order to obey Him. As believers, it is our duty to seek Him. The closer we draw to Jesus, the more deeply we desire Him to lead our life. As we allow Him to work through us and we begin to experience the riches of a Christ-centered life, our love for Him deepens, causing us to aspire to higher obedience. Therefore, if peace is absent from our lives, there are certain questions we should stop to consider. 1. Who do I rely on? Self-reliance and reliance on God cannot co-exist. Peace cannot be present when we rely on self instead of God. 2. What do I hold in my heart? Are bitterness or unforgiveness weaving a thread through the tapestry of my emotions? Forgiveness is sometimes easily extended, but at other times, the hardships and pains of this world are too excruciating to release without total reliance on Jesus. Without erasing the disobedience of unforgiveness and bitterness from our spirit and heart, we cannot carry peace. 3. What are you afraid of? God does not give the spirit of fear. 4. How do I handle mistakes? Am I a perfectionist? Only God is perfect. Stop trying to be Him. 5. What do I value? Does materialism have a grip on me? What do I value? Where do I spend my time and money? 6. Who do I choose to grant time to? Who are the people I am with most? What kind of influence do they have on me? 7. What do I choose to grant time to? 8. Am I able to handle my emotions? Am I even-tempered? 9. What does my heart seek? 10. Where do I find my worth? Does the world carry more weight with my thoughts and actions or does the Holy Spirit living inside me influence my emotions and behavior? 1 Corinthians 13:11-13 says, “When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” As we intentionally mature in our Christian relationship through Jesus, we see more clearly all that the Lord has for us. Our walk leads us closer to Him in fresh ways as we discover life is not about our selfish whims and desires. Through study of His holy word, we learn ways to grow in and through Him to understand Him more clearly to please Him. As we do so, we draw the peace promised by God into our lives. 1. Know the Bible. In order to develop and deepen our on-going relationship with Jesus, we must read His word. In order to know Him and all that He desires, we have to know His word and seek and recognize His truths. Psalm 119:165 says, “Great peace have those who love Your law, and nothing causes them to stumble.” 2. Pray. Prayer is an integral and continuing responsibility and privilege for believers. Pray for God’s will and purpose in our life. Pray to see, know, and understand Him more clearly. Pray to make Him known to others. Pray for His peace and guidance. Psalm 85:8 says, “I will hear what God the Lord will speak, for He will speak peace to His people and to His saints; but let them not turn back to folly.” We hear God speak when we are close enough to listen. 3. Search our self and motives to ensure we live according to God’s ways and purposes. Proverbs 16:7 says, “When a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” 4. Release our dreams to Him. God created us and knows exactly what will truly fulfill us. Trust Him and His design for our life. If we live in opposition to what God desires for us, we never find peace. 1 Corinthians 14:33a says, “For God is not the author of confusion but of peace.” 5. Believe that obstacles are opportunities. Treat them as such. Our positive mindset allows the peace of God to reside within us. Allow Him to carry the burdens and fears. Matthew 11:28-30 says, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” 6. Obey God. Seek to please and rely on Him. Seek Him to know His will and ways and put them into effect in our life. Turn away from sin that may be restricting the peace of God. Ask God to seek your heart and reveal areas to you that need to be turned away from or repented and given to Him. 1 Peter 3:11 says, “Let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it.” 7. Gratitude, despite surroundings or events should be reflected in our heart, mind, words, and attitude. Isaiah 26:12 says, “Lord, You will establish peace for us, for You have also done all our works in us.” 8. Serve others less fortunate. When we look at others with a heart for and from the Lord, we seize the ways we can shine Him to others and it allows us to live with more grateful hearts. When we serve others, it causes us to examine our relationship with those we serve, and with God. Serving erases division and unites. James 3:18 says, “Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” Romans 12:18 says, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” Romans 14:19 says, “Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.” 2 Corinthians 13:11 says, “Finally, brothers rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” 9. Go outdoors. Sometimes a steady heart naturally flows through us when we seek solace in His creation. Ezekiel 34:25 says, “I will make a covenant of peace with them, and cause wild beasts to cease from the land; and they will dwell safely in the wilderness and sleep in the woods.” 10. Relax. God never called us to perfection. Learn to distinguish between what does not matter and can be let go. Concentrate on what God calls to attention in your life to reduce anxiety or stress. Psalm 29:11 says, “The Lord will give strength to His people; the Lord will bless His people with peace.” Other important questions to ponder are: Where do I find my peace? Is it ever-lasting? Does it come from trusting Jesus and my relationship with God through Him or from my surroundings and circumstances? God says He will give peace to His people. He longs for harmony and contentment to be fixed in our spirit and life. His encompassing peace truly can be well with our soul when we surrender regularly and naturally to God’s sovereignty over us and maintain a closeness that remains committed to keeping Him on the throne of our life. I want to share one more verse that is actually a promise from God. Isaiah 9:6 says, “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Prince of Peace. Jesus, the Prince of Peace lives within you when you are His. There is absolutely no greater power to give you or restore peace within you than Him. Did you enjoy this episode? If so, would you please make time to leave a review and rating for the show? Send me an email at thedoovermom@gmail.com if you don’t know how and I will walk you through step-by-step. I pray you find value in our weekly topics. In order for others to be able to hear about Jesus through Live With Eternal Perspective, I need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift this podcast higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Right now, because the podcast is new and the following is small, listeners won’t find it unless they specifically know the name to search for. Can you think of a friend who might enjoy encouragement? If so, please share this podcast with them so that they will also find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

< Back Purposed Parent/Connected Child Podcast Episode 009 - Uniquely Christ's Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child Podcast Episode #009 – Uniquely Christ’s Are you yearning for greater connection with your child? Would you like to parent beyond the moment with eternal perspective? Let’s grow together now with practical tips, scripture, and stories geared to draw your heart to Jesus and guide your child into His arms. Because I homeschool, I’ve been able to spend much more time with my two youngest daughters than I was able to be with my oldest children, who attended public school while I worked full-time. When you stay home with your children, plus serve as their educator in the classroom, you have the opportunity to craft a special relationship with each child. Not only do I know their natural inclinations toward learning and life, but I understand their attitude and desires. I have a front row seat to viewing when lessons and material stick and when we need to work harder; I get to be present when they accomplish big goals and look them in the eye to share successes in the moment. Just as I have memorized the faces of my beautiful daughters, their spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical states are well known by me. Our closeness comes from time spent together and by pursuing relationship through thick and thin. I know what lights them up and what dims their interest. God clearly shows Himself to me daily through my interactions with them as I recognize His mighty hand in the way He crafted them with special talents, interests, and dreams that can only come from Him. Some may believe that all people are created as “blank slates” with potential to become anything they desire. While part of that statement can be considered true, if we look to scripture, we see that God actually purposed to craft uniqueness into each of us. Psalm 139:13-16 says, “ For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” When we examine this passage closely, we are able to detect the intimacy of God and begin to understand how He planned for and brought each of us into existence. God created our “inmost ” being, meaning our intimate thoughts, our deepest desires. As he formed each of us, we were knitted together, meaning His actions were designed uniquely for each specific human He thought of and created. Every single person is exceptional and exclusive, complex, and created for a purpose designed by the Great I Am. God, the Author of Life was involved in planning and forming each inmost area and outer detail of our soul and body. As the passage of scripture in Psalm 139 continues, we read affirmation that God planned us, saw us, and formed us. He knew all the seconds and days our life would hold before we even came to be. It is no coincidence that you are paired with and have the particular child you were given at the exact time they came to be with you. Whether by birth or adoption, God knew you would parent exactly who you do. Over my extended years of parenting I have found comfort and direction in these verses from Psalm 139. I hope they bring you peace and strength in your parenting journey, as well. Not only are we able to find assurance and affirmation in self-worth for ourselves, but most importantly, for our children. This passage of scripture leaves no doubt that we are each cherished and planned. Your child is not an after-thought. His or her life matters. God purposed for your children to exist. He planned each of us, made each of us, knew us before we were born, and knew the exact second each of us were conceived. Even more, God is present at every moment of formation and development for everyone. He knows when we are born and He knows when we will leave this earth. There is no greater method of teaching your child that her life matters and that God has specific plans for her than through this section of Psalms. Of course, most parents wouldn’t argue the fact that their child is special. Yet, the way we view “special” in earthly or secular terms versus how God defines unique is often quite different. Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do .” Combining the passage we read earlier from Psalms with this verse from Ephesians proves that we, and our children are each alive and purposed for special plans that can only come from the Father and are to be used for the Father. Ephesians 2:10 affirms again that we are God’s workmanship and are created in Christ for good works, which were prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. Because of our relationship with Jesus, believers are empowered by the Holy Spirit to do the good works predestined for them to accomplish through Christ. It is very interesting that the word “workmanship” translated in Greek becomes the word poiema (poyeema), which is the root of the English word, “poem.” I find two definitions for the word “poem” to be beautifully interesting in light of the context we are seeking here. The first definition of “poem” is, “a composition in verse, especially one that is characterized by a highly developed artistic form and by the use of heightened language and rhythm to express an intensely imaginative interpretation of the subject .” The second definition is: “composition that, though not in verse, is characterized by great beauty of language or expression .” How God loves each of us and our children to compose us in such specific, artistic ways that showcase His imagination and sovereignty . How clearly He values our individuality and purpose . How deeply He yearns and calls for us to honor Him with what we do and how we use what He has instilled within us. As Christians, we can earnestly believe that we are to raise our child to honor Christ, yet be stuck in how to do it. How is a parent supposed to find the ways each child is unique? 1. Relationship with you – Spending time with your child, observing their tendencies and giftedness. The most important part of this piece is to observe your child through God’s eyes and heart to find what may be used for Him. 2. Play – We all know God works hard, but He also allows Himself to relax. Just seeing the playfulness of each of God’s creations, not only in people, proves that He crafted and understands the importance of play. Children deeply need time to process and understand life, relationships, feelings, and emotions. Try to spend at least a small portion of each day doing some type of play with your child. Much will be discovered during this personal time spent together. If your child is older, play time includes their love language: shopping together, visiting coffee shops, sitting in their room together, chatting and laughing, or enjoying a sporting event or physical activity together. It doesn’t include just going to watch them in an event. Make time to hang out together to deepen your relationship together and get the opportunity to really observe and enjoy your child. 3. Feelings and Emotions – Through much time spent together in playful and serious moments, you will witness your child will express a variety of feelings and emotions. As they express joy or pour out their thoughts or show you through actions, you have the opportunity to see how they are constructed. Are they quiet, do they withhold feelings, do they need time to process, or do they spill and regret? 4. Interests – What lights up the eyes of your children? What makes them excited? What disappoints or scares them? Do they repeatedly seek the same things or like new adventures? Is there a skill or talent that shines through them? How do we help our child to recognize the ways God has made him unique? 1. Healthy parent – When we have and are building a strong, mature relationship with Christ and we show our child the importance of relationship with Him, it will become important to our child. Accepting the gifts and talents God crafted within us is crucial. If we put ourself down and show no value in the way God has constructed us, our child will not find value in himself. As a parent, I believe we also have a very important responsibility to continue seeking God, allowing Him to develop and alter us. We cannot help and enable our children to become what God requires of them if we are not giving our needs to the Lord in humble, loving submission and allowing Him to graft Himself throughout us. Society often reminds us we can only do our best, but I don’t want your best or my best for our precious children. I desire God’s best for us so that they receive His best, as well. 2. Self-esteem – Whether we brag about our abilities or complain about what we feel is wrong with us, neither is the type of confidence Christ would have for us or our children. Building self-esteem through the Lord builds our walk with Him and becomes an example to our children, teaching them how to rely on Christ and trust that He has placed value within them. Helping our child to build their esteem through Jesus is the greatest foundation they will have. They must understand Who they belong to and what to craft their life around. Actively building that relationship with you and Christ together daily enables your child to recognize their godly potential and step out in faith to continue building it. How do we guide our child to use their giftings, interests, or talents for God? 1. Safety – When we are focused on constructing and maintaining strong relationship with our child and Christ, our child feels safe to learn and grow with us. It is much easier to trust Jesus when your child knows she can trust you. When we remark on their abilities and strengths and offer suggestions as to how to use them for the Lord, our child hears and listens to our suggestions and feels safe enough to trust our encouragement and testimony to pursue their own faith. 2. Encouragement – Acknowledging the strengths of our children and offering glory to God for them teaches them to do the same. 3. Relationship with Jesus – When our child discovers faith and purposely develops it as their own, relationship with Christ will slowly mature. As they see, hear, and remember the way we have taught them to respect how God made them individually and for a purpose, and see how we use our own giftings for the Lord, they will believe their Heavenly Father can guide them in the way to honor Him. As we continue to love God with all our heart, all our soul, all our mind, and with all our strength, and humbly seek His way in building relationship with our children and allowing Him to continue transforming us moment by moment, our children are taught by example. As we recognize and help them develop the interests and talents God specifically chose to craft within them, then teach them the joy of serving God through them, we honor our Lord in ways that last for eternity. Dear Heavenly Father, how great You are! Thank you for entrusting us with the talents and gifts You crafted within each of us and for the ones You gifted to our children. Help all of us to see and use what You have given us and enable our children to use them in mighty ways for Your kingdom and purpose. May our children delight You in the way they use the creativity and interests You chose for them. Your word tells us that before You formed our children in the womb You knew them, before they were born You set them apart, just as You did for us. What a holy honor to walk in the plans You have set for us. Help us to be so close to You, help our children to choose You and walk in Your ways that we each easily discern Your purpose and ways. Your word assures us that even the very hairs of our head are all numbered . You tell us that You, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, You are the potter; we are all the work of Your hand . In so many ways You make it clear that You are the Great I Am, but You also show how deeply and clearly You love us and chose to be with us. How thankful we desire to be. Help us please You as we understand more clearly moment by moment just how good You are, just how lavishly You love. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this podcast. If you pray for your child, please look for my free ebook, “Prayers for My Child,” available on the website under the “Resources” page and is designed to guide the heart of your child to the feet of Jesus through scripturally-based prayer. The Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast is now available at terrihitt.com, where you can access the episodes housed in one convenient location, receive access to blog posts, read transcripts, and find additional resources designed to mature your walk with Christ and equip you to raise or influence connected children through Him. God knows that we are not capable of successful parenting on our own. As we rely on Him, releasing doubts and expectations, and humbly bow to His guidance and experience, we find greater clarity in parenting and a wondrous walk with our Creator that will extend to our children and those around us for generations . I pray this podcast helps you parent with purpose and deepen your connection to Jesus and your children as you intentionally place Christ above culture or self. Allow Him to work through you for true connection that will draw your children to Him and build a maturing relationship with Christ and your child that lasts for eternity. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #057 – God’s Mission for Parents Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Would you like to know one of the highlights of my days? It’s when the girls and I share Bible and devotional time. The topics change with different studies, but right now we are studying Revelation. As powerful as it is to experience studying God’s word together, I know this is not enough to ensure that they have a solid foundation on which to build a life of passionate devotion to God. Prayer time together always precedes Bible study, and we frequently pray together through the day as needs arise or if we hear of someone who needs prayer. We always try to stop what we are doing and pray in that moment. I also ask my girls to pray for me. I want them to know I rely on the Lord to provide what I need and I want them to see that it is acceptable to not have all of the answers or abilities on their own. I want my chldren to be comfortable relying on God , no matter the need. Despite enjoying the blessings of purposely sharing this study time together, my youngest was not hungry to search the scriptures alone. It was time to encourage her to commit to the next step because I know she has a growing love for Jesus, but it cannot flourish if she does not root herself in God’s word. I knew had to reach her through one of her love languages. So now, before she receives any evening screen time, she has to have read from her Bible that day. It was time to develop the pattern that would give her the lifeline she will need to cling to in this world. Here’s the truth: we all have time for what is deeply important to us. I want God and His truths and words to be the oxygen required to make it through her day. How will she crave God if she doesn’t acquire a taste for Him? We settled on a schedule and I guided her with several suggestions to begin reading. Do you know what our best surprise was? My girl realized the joy of seeking and learning from God on her own. She learned it was fun to discover more about the wisdom of God and the people highlighted in the Bible. As she read Proverbs, she found the wisdom so fascinating that she read beyond the scheduled reading sections. As you may know, I am raising my second set of children. Like you, I learn as I go. Since I had my first two at 18 and 21, my parenting skills were similar to how my husband and I were parented. We made changes from what we didn’t like or appreciate growing up, but the rest was patterned after what we had experienced. I was not a follower of Jesus as a young mother. Thankfully, over the years, I have been blessed to discover and accept Jesus and to allow Him to mold me as He desires each moment. Jesus reveals mistakes and ideas to me often, as He does to all who seek Him diligently. I’m honored to be able to share what I have learned through trial and error, plus what God has revealed as I have studied Him and attempted to model my life after Jesus. Mothers, in order for our children to live a life that God would deem successful, we must continuously sharpen our personal skills to live each day with a perspective beyond the moment. Our heart and mind must be set in alignment with a compass focused on God, our True North. We are responsible for ensuring we have done everything to make Him known. Many children leave home without strong faith to set them apart in this world or one that equips them to cleave to God and allow Him to handle their decisions and battles. Ultimate parenting is God-centered and focused. Make each moment you have with your child count for eternity. You do not need to have all of the answers, but it is your duty and opportunity to guide your child to the One who does. The Bible is a God-inspired, perfect source of guidance, wisdom, and direction for parents. God purposely and generously offered His word to us as a guide for life, parenting, and relationships. As we study the Bible, and come to know Him more clearly, we develop skills needed to realize God’s commands, promises, and guidance consistently and introspectively. We feel and notice Him resetting our mind, heart, attitude, actions, thoughts, and behavior. As the Holy Spirit lives in us and we access and release His power through a maturing walk with God, others notice, as well. Each change we experience can impact the eternity of those around us, especially our spouse and children. When we read the Bible, we must consider the meanings and truths beyond what we see. There is a depth that exposes every need we have, as well as the solutions to living a God-centered life complete with joy and peace. Our children were not an after-thought. God provides for our need, as well as theirs, through His guidebook of life, the Bible. Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.” In order to direct our children to Him, we must already know God. Today, I want to read from one of my favorite areas of the Bible. The instructions God reveals are integral to pleasing our Heavenly Father and completing the task He has for parents and followers of Him. In Deuteronomy, God clearly directs us in what we are to hold as a sacred parental responsibility. This duty should be seen as a privilege when we already strive to live with a heart and mind set for Him. I want to share some of my favorite passages, because the words are such clearly instructive verses we are wise to follow. Deuteronomy 6:1-2a says, “These are the commands, decrees, and regulations that the Lord your God commanded me to teach you. You must obey them in the land you are about to enter and occupy, and you and your children and grandchildren must fear the Lord your God as long as you live.” God graciously gifts His people with formal, authoritative orders for our guidance and protection. What may seem binding or restrictive is meant to free us. Reverent fear for the Lord God isn’t mentioned often in society today. People, and many churches, tend to pass it by in favor of what they consider the “feel good” love of Jesus. Instead of facing God’s sovereignty, they tend to prefer speaking of gentleness and humbleness. Yet, God is a jealous God who wants our complete devotion. The author of excellence and creation, who created each of us for a purpose, deserves it. When we teach our children and grandchildren to humble themselves before the Lord and love and serve Him as He desires, we are gifting them beyond measure and for eternity. Deuteronomy 6:4-5 says, “Listen, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord alone. And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength.” The greatest act of obedience we offer God is to love Him freely and passionately. In this passage, we are commanded to love God with our heart, soul, and all of our strength. This act is foundational for all of living. Do you believe we can be commanded to love? You may have heard that love is a choice. I believe that to be true. The best definition I’ve read about the love God offers and commands from us came from Dr. David Jeremiah. He wrote that, “Love in Hebrew is not confined to feelings; the term heart centers on the intellect, sensibilities, and will. So when God commands that His people love Him, it means to decide to cleave to Him, and Him alone. The command includes soul, which here is a synonym for heart – the true essence of a person. Strength translates a phrase that means, Give it all you have!” We are to love God with everything we are and have. God deserves and is worthy of our passionate love. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 says, “And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” Breathing God in as the air we must have to sustain life, allowing Him to be head of our life, sharing Him naturally with our children, yet maintaining awe, and teaching them to honor and respect the Lord should flow naturally and readily because we love Him. Obeying the command to love God is a lifetime action of passionate devotion that becomes more meaningful daily as our love deepens. The God of all creation is not to be an after-thought. We are to willingly include Him in all. Deuteronomy 6:20-25 says, “In the future your children will ask you, ‘What is the meaning of these laws, decrees, and regulations that the LORD our God has commanded us to obey? “Then you must tell them, ‘We were Pharaoh’s slaves in Egypt, but the LORD brought us out of Egypt with his strong hand. The Lord did miraculous signs and wonders before our eyes, dealing terrifying blows against Egypt and Pharaoh and all his people. He brought us out of Egypt so he could give us this land He had sworn to give our ancestors. And the Lord our God commanded us to obey all these decrees and to fear Him so He can continue to bless us and preserve our lives, as He has done to this day. For we will be counted as righteous when we obey all the commands the Lord our God has given us.” Mothers, we are God-assigned managers and stewards of His children. God commands us to love Him and teach our children to love Him. We are to mentor that passionate, devoted love for God that is for Him, and Him alone. Our children are to experience us loving God without the entrapment of idolatry in this world as we seek Him with our mind, heart, emotions, talents, time, and purpose. We are to live a lifestyle of worship as we seek, love, and follow Him so passionately that they will, too. When we pass on the love God commands, what He has done for us, and a strong faith to sustain and mature it, God lives fully through us and attracts our children more strongly than the world. Psalm 34:8 says, “Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!” When our child sees us live with a passionate and consistent love for Christ that lovingly flows through all we are and do, they begin to recognize the difference He makes. Heavenly Father, we thank you for Your word and the Holy Spirit that lives inside believers. You have offered everything we need to equip us to live with a passion You deserve. Help us to clear our heart and mind to focus on what is important to You and show it to our children and others around us. Help us to study and know Your word so that it stands as our guide against the noise and distractions from this loud, harsh world. Teach us to live our life with the eternal perspective Jesus carried so that all we do honors and pleases You. May we bring you joy. May you carry that through to our children as we teach them to love and obey You, as well. In Your holy and precious name we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this episode. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Christ and encourage you to raise or influence children to chase Jesus instead of this world. Be sure to sign up for my email list to be notified when my next resource, “Scattering Seeds: Planting Character and Faith in Your Child” releases soon. This eBook is an excellent encouragement and support for mothers or grandmothers of young children. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to Jesus and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up and find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 057 God's Mission for Parents Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #057 – God’s Mission for Parents Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Would you like to know one of the highlights of my days? It’s when the girls and I share Bible and devotional time. The topics change with different studies, but right now we are studying Revelation. As powerful as it is to experience studying God’s word together, I know this is not enough to ensure that they have a solid foundation on which to build a life of passionate devotion to God. Prayer time together always precedes Bible study, and we frequently pray together through the day as needs arise or if we hear of someone who needs prayer. We always try to stop what we are doing and pray in that moment. I also ask my girls to pray for me. I want them to know I rely on the Lord to provide what I need and I want them to see that it is acceptable to not have all of the answers or abilities on their own. I want my chldren to be comfortable relying on God , no matter the need. Despite enjoying the blessings of purposely sharing this study time together, my youngest was not hungry to search the scriptures alone. It was time to encourage her to commit to the next step because I know she has a growing love for Jesus, but it cannot flourish if she does not root herself in God’s word. I knew had to reach her through one of her love languages. So now, before she receives any evening screen time, she has to have read from her Bible that day. It was time to develop the pattern that would give her the lifeline she will need to cling to in this world. Here’s the truth: we all have time for what is deeply important to us. I want God and His truths and words to be the oxygen required to make it through her day. How will she crave God if she doesn’t acquire a taste for Him? We settled on a schedule and I guided her with several suggestions to begin reading. Do you know what our best surprise was? My girl realized the joy of seeking and learning from God on her own. She learned it was fun to discover more about the wisdom of God and the people highlighted in the Bible. As she read Proverbs, she found the wisdom so fascinating that she read beyond the scheduled reading sections. As you may know, I am raising my second set of children. Like you, I learn as I go. Since I had my first two at 18 and 21, my parenting skills were similar to how my husband and I were parented. We made changes from what we didn’t like or appreciate growing up, but the rest was patterned after what we had experienced. I was not a follower of Jesus as a young mother. Thankfully, over the years, I have been blessed to discover and accept Jesus and to allow Him to mold me as He desires each moment. Jesus reveals mistakes and ideas to me often, as He does to all who seek Him diligently. I’m honored to be able to share what I have learned through trial and error, plus what God has revealed as I have studied Him and attempted to model my life after Jesus. Mothers, in order for our children to live a life that God would deem successful, we must continuously sharpen our personal skills to live each day with a perspective beyond the moment. Our heart and mind must be set in alignment with a compass focused on God, our True North. We are responsible for ensuring we have done everything to make Him known. Many children leave home without strong faith to set them apart in this world or one that equips them to cleave to God and allow Him to handle their decisions and battles. Ultimate parenting is God-centered and focused. Make each moment you have with your child count for eternity. You do not need to have all of the answers, but it is your duty and opportunity to guide your child to the One who does. The Bible is a God-inspired, perfect source of guidance, wisdom, and direction for parents. God purposely and generously offered His word to us as a guide for life, parenting, and relationships. As we study the Bible, and come to know Him more clearly, we develop skills needed to realize God’s commands, promises, and guidance consistently and introspectively. We feel and notice Him resetting our mind, heart, attitude, actions, thoughts, and behavior. As the Holy Spirit lives in us and we access and release His power through a maturing walk with God, others notice, as well. Each change we experience can impact the eternity of those around us, especially our spouse and children. When we read the Bible, we must consider the meanings and truths beyond what we see. There is a depth that exposes every need we have, as well as the solutions to living a God-centered life complete with joy and peace. Our children were not an after-thought. God provides for our need, as well as theirs, through His guidebook of life, the Bible. Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.” In order to direct our children to Him, we must already know God. Today, I want to read from one of my favorite areas of the Bible. The instructions God reveals are integral to pleasing our Heavenly Father and completing the task He has for parents and followers of Him. In Deuteronomy, God clearly directs us in what we are to hold as a sacred parental responsibility. This duty should be seen as a privilege when we already strive to live with a heart and mind set for Him. I want to share some of my favorite passages, because the words are such clearly instructive verses we are wise to follow. Deuteronomy 6:1-2a says, “These are the commands, decrees, and regulations that the Lord your God commanded me to teach you. You must obey them in the land you are about to enter and occupy, and you and your children and grandchildren must fear the Lord your God as long as you live.” God graciously gifts His people with formal, authoritative orders for our guidance and protection. What may seem binding or restrictive is meant to free us. Reverent fear for the Lord God isn’t mentioned often in society today. People, and many churches, tend to pass it by in favor of what they consider the “feel good” love of Jesus. Instead of facing God’s sovereignty, they tend to prefer speaking of gentleness and humbleness. Yet, God is a jealous God who wants our complete devotion. The author of excellence and creation, who created each of us for a purpose, deserves it. When we teach our children and grandchildren to humble themselves before the Lord and love and serve Him as He desires, we are gifting them beyond measure and for eternity. Deuteronomy 6:4-5 says, “Listen, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord alone. And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength.” The greatest act of obedience we offer God is to love Him freely and passionately. In this passage, we are commanded to love God with our heart, soul, and all of our strength. This act is foundational for all of living. Do you believe we can be commanded to love? You may have heard that love is a choice. I believe that to be true. The best definition I’ve read about the love God offers and commands from us came from Dr. David Jeremiah. He wrote that, “Love in Hebrew is not confined to feelings; the term heart centers on the intellect, sensibilities, and will. So when God commands that His people love Him, it means to decide to cleave to Him, and Him alone. The command includes soul, which here is a synonym for heart – the true essence of a person. Strength translates a phrase that means, Give it all you have!” We are to love God with everything we are and have. God deserves and is worthy of our passionate love. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 says, “And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” Breathing God in as the air we must have to sustain life, allowing Him to be head of our life, sharing Him naturally with our children, yet maintaining awe, and teaching them to honor and respect the Lord should flow naturally and readily because we love Him. Obeying the command to love God is a lifetime action of passionate devotion that becomes more meaningful daily as our love deepens. The God of all creation is not to be an after-thought. We are to willingly include Him in all. Deuteronomy 6:20-25 says, “In the future your children will ask you, ‘What is the meaning of these laws, decrees, and regulations that the LORD our God has commanded us to obey? “Then you must tell them, ‘We were Pharaoh’s slaves in Egypt, but the LORD brought us out of Egypt with his strong hand. The Lord did miraculous signs and wonders before our eyes, dealing terrifying blows against Egypt and Pharaoh and all his people. He brought us out of Egypt so he could give us this land He had sworn to give our ancestors. And the Lord our God commanded us to obey all these decrees and to fear Him so He can continue to bless us and preserve our lives, as He has done to this day. For we will be counted as righteous when we obey all the commands the Lord our God has given us.” Mothers, we are God-assigned managers and stewards of His children. God commands us to love Him and teach our children to love Him. We are to mentor that passionate, devoted love for God that is for Him, and Him alone. Our children are to experience us loving God without the entrapment of idolatry in this world as we seek Him with our mind, heart, emotions, talents, time, and purpose. We are to live a lifestyle of worship as we seek, love, and follow Him so passionately that they will, too. When we pass on the love God commands, what He has done for us, and a strong faith to sustain and mature it, God lives fully through us and attracts our children more strongly than the world. Psalm 34:8 says, “Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!” When our child sees us live with a passionate and consistent love for Christ that lovingly flows through all we are and do, they begin to recognize the difference He makes. Heavenly Father, we thank you for Your word and the Holy Spirit that lives inside believers. You have offered everything we need to equip us to live with a passion You deserve. Help us to clear our heart and mind to focus on what is important to You and show it to our children and others around us. Help us to study and know Your word so that it stands as our guide against the noise and distractions from this loud, harsh world. Teach us to live our life with the eternal perspective Jesus carried so that all we do honors and pleases You. May we bring you joy. May you carry that through to our children as we teach them to love and obey You, as well. In Your holy and precious name we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this episode. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Christ and encourage you to raise or influence children to chase Jesus instead of this world. Be sure to sign up for my email list to be notified when my next resource, “Scattering Seeds: Planting Character and Faith in Your Child” releases soon. This eBook is an excellent encouragement and support for mothers or grandmothers of young children. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to Jesus and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up and find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #054 – Parenting His Purpose Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. A few days ago I was working on the podcast, but stopped and began listening with a smile when I heard my daughters giggling together over something in the kitchen. Their carefree laughter brought such joy to my spirit. It brought to mind how God must feel each time we eagerly seek His presence and take joy in learning more of Him. Just as the girls were authentically sharing moments together, God wants us to invite Him to share both large and small memories with Him. Our Heavenly Father created us for special fellowship together. Since the fall of creation, this world we live in has been warped and broken. Our spirits have been yearning to reconnect with God in the intimate ways He designed for us. The Good Father created us on purpose with a purpose. As we know, before Adam and Eve sinned in the garden, they shared a very unique and special relationship with God that carried privileges we have never experienced. 1. Adam and Eve were privileged to walk and talk with God daily. 2. Adam and Eve saw God through the pure lens God desired. They were not confused or misled by sin, as it had not yet entered their lives. 3. Adam and Eve lived with a richness and fullness that God intended for their spirits and minds, unaffected by our now-fallen world. After disobeying God, sin damaged and severed their perfect relationship with God. The intimate bond and communion Adam and Eve shared with God was destroyed. After they chose to believe Satan, and made choices that tore them from God’s perfection, their knowledge and understanding of God became twisted. Although they once walked with God in abundant life, they now hid in the shadows of their once peaceful world, as death entered their world and altered their existence. Our lives are now positioned on what occurred through Adam and Eve’s choice and what the world became after the Fall. Every man and woman has been separated from God, we are not wise to the truths of God, and we are each condemned to not only a physical death, but a spiritual death as well. Thankfully, because of Jesus, we have a Redeemer and Rescuer who has brought us back into a beautiful fellowship with God. We don’t have to live alienated from God, ignorant of God, condemned to death, or without hope or purpose. So why do so many Christians who rejoice in the fact that they are saved through Jesus and proclaim to love the Lord neglect to live a lifestyle that focuses on eternity with a heart and mindset like Jesus? Why don’t we teach our children to live with a mindset and purpose that is set for eternity and raise them for Jesus? Because, just like Jesus said in Luke 23:34a, “Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” Just as Satan’s words to Eve contained partial truth (although it was twisted), the devil uses the same tactics with us today. Satan tempts humans by appealing to our desires. Often, mothers want so much for their children that we forget how very little they really need. We are so busy trying to do and get all we can for them. All they really need is a firm foundation set on Jesus and a life that seeks and reflects Him. The same truth applies to us. Our life should not be defined by how much our children have or what they do. Stop trying to present them with the best or the most and commit to loving them as God calls. Help them build a firm and solid foundation on Jesus. God will equip and lead you to give them what they truly need and He will also surprise you with blessings beyond as you follow Him with a joyous and honoring heart. As a woman who has raised two sets of family over a span of forty-two years, I’ve watched fads come and go, and I’ve seen the way current culture affects home and family. I’ve experienced the consistency of a firm foundation settled on Jesus, as well as life without much thought to Him. No strategy, no amount of love or attention, no hope, no plans, no relationship with a human, nothing carries the value and hope that a maturing relationship with God through Jesus holds. When we live a life connected to Jesus, it builds a lifeline between our children and the Lord. Philippians 3:8 says, “Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For His sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ.” If we really believe that verse, why don’t we live like it? Why don’t we ensure that our children know Jesus and teach them that nothing in this life lasts, nothing matters but a firm foundation built on Him? Do you understand what the word foundation means in relation to our child and his relationship with and dependency on Christ? Really take a few moments to soak in the importance of the word and meaning. A life built on the foundation of Jesus will have a life-affirming, truthful basis for a belief system, stability, support, and a life patterned after the Authority and Creator. For a year I have written podcasts set to build our relationships with God through maturing our walk with Jesus. Without Him, this world has no hope, no peace, and cannot offer love or understanding. Look at the way our culture continues to change and the effects it has on us, let alone our children. Media, shows, books, magazines, fashion, education, celebrities, and superstars all desensitize our precious children and we are to blame, as we ignorantly or lazily let it continue. Many kids grow up wanting fame at the cost of anything, including morals, reputation, relationships, and life. Instead of humbly following the Lord, they follow strangers who lead them far away from where a true believer and follower of Christ should be. Our children have time for phones and social media, but make no time to invest in growing and deepening a walk with Jesus. We have ourselves to blame if we have not allowed Christ to rule our life and modeled Him humbly and purely to them daily. Most of the time, our children pattern themselves and their life choices after what they see us do. I hope that if you are listening to this podcast you are either already maturing your walk with Jesus through an intentional, continuous basis or that you are very interested in doing so. I have known Jesus for 39 years. My walk with Him has not been perfect, but Jesus has never left my side. It is my honor, and frankly my duty, as I know where God is calling me, to teach you what God has shown to me, as well as to lead you straight to Him through the practical ways I’ve shared over the last year. Heavy on my heart at this time, as I know God has laid it there, is the knowledge that He is calling me to walk with you in the way our children are raised. Am I saying I have all of the perfect answers to raising children? Absolutely not! But I know Who does and how to guide you to Him. I have seen the truth of God’s word come true over and over again. Everything in the Bible is truth and God is not mocked. We do reap what we sow. Our children are affected by what we believe and the actions we choose. As you raise and provide for your precious children, be certain of what you believe and stand for, how you represent Jesus, and what you model for your children. I’m going to list questions that each of us should regularly remember to ask ourselves and evaluate honestly. These are vitally important, not only for us, but for those around us, especially for the children God entrusted to our care. 1. What do I believe? Do I know my beliefs and how they affect my eternity? Have I thought about how they shape the eternity of those around me? If I am a believer in Jesus, it is imperative that I am clear in these areas and striving to grow in Him daily and make Him clearly known to my children. 2. Is it apparent that I am a Christian? What does that word mean to me? Have I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior? How do I represent Christ each day? Do I say one thing and do another? Am I consistent in my attitude and heartitude, making my maturing relationship with Jesus loving and evident? 3. What are my children learning? Do they know Jesus as Savior? Are they lovingly and intentionally maturing their walk with God through Jesus each day or are they Christians in name or claim only? Do I see fruits of the spirit continuously ripening in them? 4. Am I actively helping my children grow in Jesus daily or expecting the church or someone else to help them grow in maturity? How are they seeing me intentionally grow my walk with Christ? What kind of relationship do they see? Am I making Jesus known to them in real and personal ways? Do I regularly model and mentor them in Jesus in a loving and godly way? Let’s think back to the points I made at the beginning of this podcast when I discussed Adam and Eve in the garden. 1. Adam and Eve were able to walk and talk with God daily. As mothers who believe in Jesus, it should be our deepest desire to see our children walk and talk with God daily. 2. Adam and Eve saw God through the pure lens God desired. They were not confused or misled by sin, as it had not yet entered their lives. We should desire that our children know the word of God and His love through Jesus so that they are not confused by sin and are not attracted to what this world shoves at them. 3. Adam and Eve lived with a richness and fullness that God intended for their spirits and minds, unaffected by our now-fallen world. Godly parenting looks for ways to fill the minds of our children with the fullness of joy God intends for them and looks for ways to help our children mature and shine fruits of the Spirit. 4. Adam and Eve looked forward to spending time with God. Getting to know the Lord should not be a chore or something we barely make time for. Our relationship with God should be a priority so that it becomes one for our children. How can we, as humans, fill these demanding roles? Only through the power and presence of Jesus in our life. Parenting is hard. I think of our loving Heavenly Father, who always stands ready to carry us. God never leaves our side. If you are a parent, grandparent, or person of influence over a child’s life, I urge you to acknowledge that there is nothing more important you can do for the one you love than to allow God to work through you to form their soul and eternal relationship with Him. God did not pick you because you have it all together. He is allowing your influence on His child, because God trusts that you will allow Him to work through you. When I became a mother at the age of 18, I did not have a relationship with Christ. I thought I was so mature for my age, and I was to a point. But as Jeremiah 9:23 says, “This is what the Lord says: “Don’t let the wise boast in their wisdom, or the powerful boast in their power, or the rich boast in their riches.” Likewise, Proverbs 3:13 says, “Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding.” And listen to this wisdom from Job 28:28, which says, “And this is what he says to all humanity: ‘The fear of the Lord is true wisdom; to forsake evil is real understanding.” One of my favorites is Luke 2:52, which says, “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” How blessed we (and our children) are if God can proclaim that our children are growing in favor with Him! It is up to each one of us to have such a close, honoring, and obedient relationship with the Lord that we must equip our children to develop deep and wide-spread roots of faith. When the storms of life come, and they will, our children will be able to withstand the trials of life because the soil they embed their life in is rich and their roots are straining to the depth and width strong faith requires. Trees with weak root systems and poorly cultivated soil will weaken and “hollow-out” as life attacks them. Storms and winds, pestilence and disease are strong when the tree is not lovingly watched over and provided for. When the root system of a tree is not carefully guarded, the tree fails to thrive and often dies. In contrast, a healthy root system can even sprout new trees when the above ground part of the tree is burned. It is imperative for our children to have strong faith roots in order for them to know, honor, follow, and shine Jesus. We are the gardener, working directly for the Master to ensure that His trees are raised to bloom healthy and strong in and through Him. Life in this world will not prepare our children for a lifetime of following Jesus and living a rich life blessed with the fruits of following Him. As the mothers entrusted to protect, nurture, and train God’s precious child, we must grasp the weight of the holy work our Heavenly Father God has allowed us to participate in. Jesus is our strength and guide. In order to properly guard and counsel our children, it is imperative that we are attuned to Him through a close and maturing walk ourselves. We live in a world that is in direct opposition to what God desires for and requires of us. An example of this comes to mind when I think of how our schools have taught a warped science that excludes God and religion. How can you teach a subject without including the author of that subject? Science and religion are not separate. Educators use textbooks that teach subjects without divine inspiration from the author of creation, and they are unable to speak His word or truths in school. Our children are victims, living without wisdom or values from God and striving for the emptiness of this world system, which will never fulfill them. Mothers, it is imperative that we take a stand. One day each of us will stand before God and be held accountable for the way we influenced His children. Your future relationship with your child and their eternal future depends on the decisions and priorities you establish and adhere to right now. As you may know, I homeschool. It has made a critical difference in my ability to reach my children for the Lord. An education at home has allowed me the benefit of studying and understanding my children at a depth I would not have been privileged to observe and discover if I sent them away for hours to go to school elsewhere each day. I see the character and attitudes of my girls clearly and honestly, and the same is true in reverse. They see the passion I have for Jesus, and my loving desire and reasons for them to know, honor, love, and obey Him. My children are receiving an education based on morals and integrity taught from God’s Holy Word and learning the basis for what we hold to be standards for right and wrong. Character formation is a difficult, but worthy and holy task. I am blessed to work at it at great lengths daily in our time together. I have also raised children through the public school system. I also know many Christians who have. I pray that each of us will trust God to provide and guide, and not make decisions based out of fear or ignorance. Allow Him to choose where and how your child will be educated, but understand that the decision will influence how much “clean up work” you will be involved in. Many children have been raised through the public school system or private schools and they have stayed true to the faith taught by diligent parents, however, I know it is becoming more and more difficult to combat the lies and unbiblical actions thrust at our children every day for years. When I was a young mother and a new Christian, I foolishly believed that the church was where my children learned about God. I thought that if they know I loved Jesus and we went to church each week, that they would be raised as followers of Jesus. How naïve! This world, school systems, peers, social media, strangers, and others have much access to the ones we love most and we must have a plan in place to teach them the truths and joys God desires for them. God provides freedom from this world, not restriction. He bestows grace, not condemnation. Teach the truth because it is absolutely certain that others are filling your children with deceit. Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for lovingly entrusting your precious, specially-crafted children into our hands. I pray we have the mindset you desire to raise them and lovingly teach them of You. Help us to perfect our walk with you more and more daily, mentoring the way for our children to have an even stronger walk with You. May each generation become stronger and deeper in faith and reach many as You work through them. Show us the way You desire us to love and teach each unique child you have allowed us. Make it clear where we need to change and grow in You ourselves, and may we admit our mistakes and change our course. May we shine You so well that our children cannot turn away. In Your precious name we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this episode. The Live With Eternal Perspective podcast is currently linked to terrihitt.com, where you can access the episodes housed in one convenient location, as well as receive access to blog posts, transcripts, and additional resources designed to mature your walk with Christ and equip you to raise or influence children with love and purpose through Him. If you would like another episode specifically about parenting children, you may like listening to “Equipping Children,” Episode #7 of the Live With Eternal Perspective podcast. I pray you intentionally continue to draw nearer to Jesus and cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up and find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 054 Parenting His Purpose Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #054 – Parenting His Purpose Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. A few days ago I was working on the podcast, but stopped and began listening with a smile when I heard my daughters giggling together over something in the kitchen. Their carefree laughter brought such joy to my spirit. It brought to mind how God must feel each time we eagerly seek His presence and take joy in learning more of Him. Just as the girls were authentically sharing moments together, God wants us to invite Him to share both large and small memories with Him. Our Heavenly Father created us for special fellowship together. Since the fall of creation, this world we live in has been warped and broken. Our spirits have been yearning to reconnect with God in the intimate ways He designed for us. The Good Father created us on purpose with a purpose. As we know, before Adam and Eve sinned in the garden, they shared a very unique and special relationship with God that carried privileges we have never experienced. 1. Adam and Eve were privileged to walk and talk with God daily. 2. Adam and Eve saw God through the pure lens God desired. They were not confused or misled by sin, as it had not yet entered their lives. 3. Adam and Eve lived with a richness and fullness that God intended for their spirits and minds, unaffected by our now-fallen world. After disobeying God, sin damaged and severed their perfect relationship with God. The intimate bond and communion Adam and Eve shared with God was destroyed. After they chose to believe Satan, and made choices that tore them from God’s perfection, their knowledge and understanding of God became twisted. Although they once walked with God in abundant life, they now hid in the shadows of their once peaceful world, as death entered their world and altered their existence. Our lives are now positioned on what occurred through Adam and Eve’s choice and what the world became after the Fall. Every man and woman has been separated from God, we are not wise to the truths of God, and we are each condemned to not only a physical death, but a spiritual death as well. Thankfully, because of Jesus, we have a Redeemer and Rescuer who has brought us back into a beautiful fellowship with God. We don’t have to live alienated from God, ignorant of God, condemned to death, or without hope or purpose. So why do so many Christians who rejoice in the fact that they are saved through Jesus and proclaim to love the Lord neglect to live a lifestyle that focuses on eternity with a heart and mindset like Jesus? Why don’t we teach our children to live with a mindset and purpose that is set for eternity and raise them for Jesus? Because, just like Jesus said in Luke 23:34a, “Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” Just as Satan’s words to Eve contained partial truth (although it was twisted), the devil uses the same tactics with us today. Satan tempts humans by appealing to our desires. Often, mothers want so much for their children that we forget how very little they really need. We are so busy trying to do and get all we can for them. All they really need is a firm foundation set on Jesus and a life that seeks and reflects Him. The same truth applies to us. Our life should not be defined by how much our children have or what they do. Stop trying to present them with the best or the most and commit to loving them as God calls. Help them build a firm and solid foundation on Jesus. God will equip and lead you to give them what they truly need and He will also surprise you with blessings beyond as you follow Him with a joyous and honoring heart. As a woman who has raised two sets of family over a span of forty-two years, I’ve watched fads come and go, and I’ve seen the way current culture affects home and family. I’ve experienced the consistency of a firm foundation settled on Jesus, as well as life without much thought to Him. No strategy, no amount of love or attention, no hope, no plans, no relationship with a human, nothing carries the value and hope that a maturing relationship with God through Jesus holds. When we live a life connected to Jesus, it builds a lifeline between our children and the Lord. Philippians 3:8 says, “Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For His sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ.” If we really believe that verse, why don’t we live like it? Why don’t we ensure that our children know Jesus and teach them that nothing in this life lasts, nothing matters but a firm foundation built on Him? Do you understand what the word foundation means in relation to our child and his relationship with and dependency on Christ? Really take a few moments to soak in the importance of the word and meaning. A life built on the foundation of Jesus will have a life-affirming, truthful basis for a belief system, stability, support, and a life patterned after the Authority and Creator. For a year I have written podcasts set to build our relationships with God through maturing our walk with Jesus. Without Him, this world has no hope, no peace, and cannot offer love or understanding. Look at the way our culture continues to change and the effects it has on us, let alone our children. Media, shows, books, magazines, fashion, education, celebrities, and superstars all desensitize our precious children and we are to blame, as we ignorantly or lazily let it continue. Many kids grow up wanting fame at the cost of anything, including morals, reputation, relationships, and life. Instead of humbly following the Lord, they follow strangers who lead them far away from where a true believer and follower of Christ should be. Our children have time for phones and social media, but make no time to invest in growing and deepening a walk with Jesus. We have ourselves to blame if we have not allowed Christ to rule our life and modeled Him humbly and purely to them daily. Most of the time, our children pattern themselves and their life choices after what they see us do. I hope that if you are listening to this podcast you are either already maturing your walk with Jesus through an intentional, continuous basis or that you are very interested in doing so. I have known Jesus for 39 years. My walk with Him has not been perfect, but Jesus has never left my side. It is my honor, and frankly my duty, as I know where God is calling me, to teach you what God has shown to me, as well as to lead you straight to Him through the practical ways I’ve shared over the last year. Heavy on my heart at this time, as I know God has laid it there, is the knowledge that He is calling me to walk with you in the way our children are raised. Am I saying I have all of the perfect answers to raising children? Absolutely not! But I know Who does and how to guide you to Him. I have seen the truth of God’s word come true over and over again. Everything in the Bible is truth and God is not mocked. We do reap what we sow. Our children are affected by what we believe and the actions we choose. As you raise and provide for your precious children, be certain of what you believe and stand for, how you represent Jesus, and what you model for your children. I’m going to list questions that each of us should regularly remember to ask ourselves and evaluate honestly. These are vitally important, not only for us, but for those around us, especially for the children God entrusted to our care. 1. What do I believe? Do I know my beliefs and how they affect my eternity? Have I thought about how they shape the eternity of those around me? If I am a believer in Jesus, it is imperative that I am clear in these areas and striving to grow in Him daily and make Him clearly known to my children. 2. Is it apparent that I am a Christian? What does that word mean to me? Have I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior? How do I represent Christ each day? Do I say one thing and do another? Am I consistent in my attitude and heartitude, making my maturing relationship with Jesus loving and evident? 3. What are my children learning? Do they know Jesus as Savior? Are they lovingly and intentionally maturing their walk with God through Jesus each day or are they Christians in name or claim only? Do I see fruits of the spirit continuously ripening in them? 4. Am I actively helping my children grow in Jesus daily or expecting the church or someone else to help them grow in maturity? How are they seeing me intentionally grow my walk with Christ? What kind of relationship do they see? Am I making Jesus known to them in real and personal ways? Do I regularly model and mentor them in Jesus in a loving and godly way? Let’s think back to the points I made at the beginning of this podcast when I discussed Adam and Eve in the garden. 1. Adam and Eve were able to walk and talk with God daily. As mothers who believe in Jesus, it should be our deepest desire to see our children walk and talk with God daily. 2. Adam and Eve saw God through the pure lens God desired. They were not confused or misled by sin, as it had not yet entered their lives. We should desire that our children know the word of God and His love through Jesus so that they are not confused by sin and are not attracted to what this world shoves at them. 3. Adam and Eve lived with a richness and fullness that God intended for their spirits and minds, unaffected by our now-fallen world. Godly parenting looks for ways to fill the minds of our children with the fullness of joy God intends for them and looks for ways to help our children mature and shine fruits of the Spirit. 4. Adam and Eve looked forward to spending time with God. Getting to know the Lord should not be a chore or something we barely make time for. Our relationship with God should be a priority so that it becomes one for our children. How can we, as humans, fill these demanding roles? Only through the power and presence of Jesus in our life. Parenting is hard. I think of our loving Heavenly Father, who always stands ready to carry us. God never leaves our side. If you are a parent, grandparent, or person of influence over a child’s life, I urge you to acknowledge that there is nothing more important you can do for the one you love than to allow God to work through you to form their soul and eternal relationship with Him. God did not pick you because you have it all together. He is allowing your influence on His child, because God trusts that you will allow Him to work through you. When I became a mother at the age of 18, I did not have a relationship with Christ. I thought I was so mature for my age, and I was to a point. But as Jeremiah 9:23 says, “This is what the Lord says: “Don’t let the wise boast in their wisdom, or the powerful boast in their power, or the rich boast in their riches.” Likewise, Proverbs 3:13 says, “Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding.” And listen to this wisdom from Job 28:28, which says, “And this is what he says to all humanity: ‘The fear of the Lord is true wisdom; to forsake evil is real understanding.” One of my favorites is Luke 2:52, which says, “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” How blessed we (and our children) are if God can proclaim that our children are growing in favor with Him! It is up to each one of us to have such a close, honoring, and obedient relationship with the Lord that we must equip our children to develop deep and wide-spread roots of faith. When the storms of life come, and they will, our children will be able to withstand the trials of life because the soil they embed their life in is rich and their roots are straining to the depth and width strong faith requires. Trees with weak root systems and poorly cultivated soil will weaken and “hollow-out” as life attacks them. Storms and winds, pestilence and disease are strong when the tree is not lovingly watched over and provided for. When the root system of a tree is not carefully guarded, the tree fails to thrive and often dies. In contrast, a healthy root system can even sprout new trees when the above ground part of the tree is burned. It is imperative for our children to have strong faith roots in order for them to know, honor, follow, and shine Jesus. We are the gardener, working directly for the Master to ensure that His trees are raised to bloom healthy and strong in and through Him. Life in this world will not prepare our children for a lifetime of following Jesus and living a rich life blessed with the fruits of following Him. As the mothers entrusted to protect, nurture, and train God’s precious child, we must grasp the weight of the holy work our Heavenly Father God has allowed us to participate in. Jesus is our strength and guide. In order to properly guard and counsel our children, it is imperative that we are attuned to Him through a close and maturing walk ourselves. We live in a world that is in direct opposition to what God desires for and requires of us. An example of this comes to mind when I think of how our schools have taught a warped science that excludes God and religion. How can you teach a subject without including the author of that subject? Science and religion are not separate. Educators use textbooks that teach subjects without divine inspiration from the author of creation, and they are unable to speak His word or truths in school. Our children are victims, living without wisdom or values from God and striving for the emptiness of this world system, which will never fulfill them. Mothers, it is imperative that we take a stand. One day each of us will stand before God and be held accountable for the way we influenced His children. Your future relationship with your child and their eternal future depends on the decisions and priorities you establish and adhere to right now. As you may know, I homeschool. It has made a critical difference in my ability to reach my children for the Lord. An education at home has allowed me the benefit of studying and understanding my children at a depth I would not have been privileged to observe and discover if I sent them away for hours to go to school elsewhere each day. I see the character and attitudes of my girls clearly and honestly, and the same is true in reverse. They see the passion I have for Jesus, and my loving desire and reasons for them to know, honor, love, and obey Him. My children are receiving an education based on morals and integrity taught from God’s Holy Word and learning the basis for what we hold to be standards for right and wrong. Character formation is a difficult, but worthy and holy task. I am blessed to work at it at great lengths daily in our time together. I have also raised children through the public school system. I also know many Christians who have. I pray that each of us will trust God to provide and guide, and not make decisions based out of fear or ignorance. Allow Him to choose where and how your child will be educated, but understand that the decision will influence how much “clean up work” you will be involved in. Many children have been raised through the public school system or private schools and they have stayed true to the faith taught by diligent parents, however, I know it is becoming more and more difficult to combat the lies and unbiblical actions thrust at our children every day for years. When I was a young mother and a new Christian, I foolishly believed that the church was where my children learned about God. I thought that if they know I loved Jesus and we went to church each week, that they would be raised as followers of Jesus. How naïve! This world, school systems, peers, social media, strangers, and others have much access to the ones we love most and we must have a plan in place to teach them the truths and joys God desires for them. God provides freedom from this world, not restriction. He bestows grace, not condemnation. Teach the truth because it is absolutely certain that others are filling your children with deceit. Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for lovingly entrusting your precious, specially-crafted children into our hands. I pray we have the mindset you desire to raise them and lovingly teach them of You. Help us to perfect our walk with you more and more daily, mentoring the way for our children to have an even stronger walk with You. May each generation become stronger and deeper in faith and reach many as You work through them. Show us the way You desire us to love and teach each unique child you have allowed us. Make it clear where we need to change and grow in You ourselves, and may we admit our mistakes and change our course. May we shine You so well that our children cannot turn away. In Your precious name we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this episode. The Live With Eternal Perspective podcast is currently linked to terrihitt.com, where you can access the episodes housed in one convenient location, as well as receive access to blog posts, transcripts, and additional resources designed to mature your walk with Christ and equip you to raise or influence children with love and purpose through Him. If you would like another episode specifically about parenting children, you may like listening to “Equipping Children,” Episode #7 of the Live With Eternal Perspective podcast. I pray you intentionally continue to draw nearer to Jesus and cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up and find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

I invite you to begin this 31-Day Scripture study designed to equip your mind and heart to shift from being a good mother to become a godly mother. The Scriptures included in this guide are shared for the purpose of drawing you closer to Christ. Good to Godly: A 31 Day Scripture & Prayer Guide I invite you to begin this 31-Day Scripture study designed to equip your mind and heart to shift from being a good mother to become a godly mother. The Scriptures included in this guide are shared for the purpose of drawing you closer to Christ. Download

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #153 – Change from a Good to Godly Woman and Mother Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. Goodness! I can’t believe school has started once again and the gorgeous days of summer will soon be moving out, ushering in crisper, cooler air. This time of year always makes me a little sad. I long for summer to last indefinitely. Since nothing lasts forever, seasons are a beautiful reminder of why we need to live with eternal perspective. Have you had days, weeks, or years of life that you want to last forever? Or maybe right now you feel the opposite. Do you wonder how much longer you have to endure the season you are experiencing? Change can be good. Especially when we aren’t aware that we are not living in ways that God desires for us. Change can become the catalyst that moves us to be in sync with the next transformation God has for us. I distinctly remember a time I’m glad I moved away from. There was a period in my life when I wanted to make sure I was a good person. A good woman. A good wife. A good daughter. A good mother. As my relationship with Jesus matured, I understood that limiting myself to “good” was “ungodly.” God calls believers to a much higher standard than good. Good isn’t good enough for God. It’s true that in the beginning when God created, He exclaimed that what He made was good. However, God is proclaiming His creations are good, not that we individually or collectively are. What I mean is that what God created is by His intelligent and perfect design. Anything He makes is good. Yet, in this sinful, fallen world, it didn’t take long for God’s creations to choose sin. Without Christ indwelling us, we continue to move farther from God. Without the Holy Spirit within us, there is no perfection or godliness. In fact, we are unable to claim the status of “good,” let alone “godly.” So how do you and I move from desiring a good life to building godly lives? Only through Christ. Once believers see our need for God, we begin to realize the need for His perfect Son, Jesus to pay the price for our sin. Once we realize the need for a Savior, and accept the free gift Jesus offers, we are able to live with His Holy Spirit within us. We are no longer bound to the world and the sinful temptations. Through relationship with Him, the Holy Word, and prayerful conversations with God, we can experience a shift from good to godly. That is, if we are seeking Him and a humble, obedient, close connection daily. What we desire must be held up to a mirror, so to speak, as we look at how our desires are reflected against what God calls for us in His holy Word. My heart fills with joy when I remember the time between when my first set of children were raised and before my husband and I knew that God was calling us to adopt a sweet baby from China. Before we knew our daughter was waiting for us, I was experiencing deeper growth in my spiritual walk with Christ. Slowly by slowly, I allowed God greater access to me. I wish I could profess to be one of those people who surrender fully in the moment they accept Christ, but the truth is that each of us have varying degrees of surrender throughout our lifetime. We never reach that finish line in this life. We are so very far beneath God, and so far from Him, that our lifetime should be focused on pursuing deeper relationship with Him and continuing to surrender self. As my relationship with Jesus deepened and widened, I thought back to when my husband and I had raised our first two children. I was not a Christian when my first two were born. Although I came to follow Jesus when they were young, I wasn’t well discipled. I wasted so many years thinking I was “good” and not striving to be godly. Would you like to know my deepest regret? Although my children always heard about Jesus, and knew I loved and followed Him, I did not know to intentionally disciple them. I didn’t yet understand that the Christian walk is a beautiful relationship between God and man. I didn’t understand the command in Deuteronomy 6:5-9, which says, “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” I assumed that what I was doing to teach my children about Jesus was enough. In reality, they were learning my limited faith, and since I was not growing as well as I should have been, they were only able to mimic a portion of my faith and not being discipled well to chase Christ for themselves. As my husband and I grew our walk with Jesus, we knew with certainty that God was calling us to travel to China to bring home the baby God had waiting to be ours. Before we went, we prayed together daily for the girl she would grow to be. Our heart desired that she be a light for Jesus, that she pursue Him with a pure heart, and that she would be an inspiration for others to follow Him. I remember the days I worked backwards, formulating a plan to raise her with very high goals. Ten years later when we returned to China to bring home our last child, the “master plan” for raising our girls for Christ had been practiced, and our youngest enabled us to continue the course with another beautiful soul to nourish for Jesus. Although there are so many important details I’m not including here, this story is so important to me, because our second step into parenting with a new generation of children was very intentional. My mind and heart was fixed, anchored on Christ through all obstacles. My husband and I committed to stand on that firm foundation. When deep waters swirled around us, when tragedy and troubles plagued our home, we tightened our grip on that three-fold cord that kept God in the center of all. No matter what happened, we remained committed to raising our girls and influencing our grown son and grandson for Christ. Just as I began this podcast almost four years ago through an act of obedience when I knew God was whispering to me to begin one, I know He is now calling me to end this show. I’ve waited through the summer months to ensure I knew for sure what He was calling, but I recently came to realize that waiting any longer to make sure my choice is good, or what God is calling when I know the peace I have in my heart to end the podcast is actually a form of disobedience. Even if I never intended it to be. So what is next? My heart sings with joy when I encourage and equip busy mothers to move past guilt, anxiety, frustration, or the variety of other emotions this world presses upon us. God has greatly pressed upon my heart the need for me, as an older mother, to wrap my arm around you and help you move from these emotions or feelings to a place of peace. I want to encourage and equip mothers to create close connection with Christ and her children and raise kids who chase Christ over culture. Mothers and grandmothers too, it is time to rise and raise children who know and honor God. The effects of this culture have run rampant for too long. How long will mothers sit back and watch as children follow peers over parents or Christ? It doesn’t matter how good a parent you want to be or are. God calls you and I to be holy, godly mothers. There is nothing greater we can do than fix our heart and mind above and focus on the methods given by God to raise children for Him. I invite you to follow my other podcast, Purposed Parent/Connected Child. I urge you to please leave a review and rate the show so that others may find it. If we don’t purposely lead our children to Christ, the world will sway them away. It starts with you and me. Our life must be so focused on living godly lives through Christ that our children clearly see Him through us and desire Him for themselves. It's time to stop the attachment our children have with peers and teach them the way to attachment with Christ. It starts with the parent. That means you and me. I have so much to share in future Purposed Parent/Connected Child episodes. A new season begins very soon. I pray you will be moved from a good to godly woman and mother as you listen to the episodes. Dear Heavenly Father, You alone are holy. You alone are greater than the good we desire. Move us from good to godly in the ways You know we need. Help us to be more and more pleasing to You each moment. May our heart and mind be in sync with Your desires for us as we move ever nearer to You. Father, I thank you for Your Word, Your perfect guidance. May we understand You better and please You more as we read and act in obedience to it. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to the Live With Eternal Perspective podcast for the last several years. This podcast has brought me and my family even closer to God and each other. I have witnessed our faith and obedience multiply because of this show. I truly hope that it has affected you in ways that move you to the woman God intended for you to be. As much as I loved this podcast, I feel in my spirit that God is calling me to end this chapter of obedience to Him, and I know that makes me available and humbly ready to serve in the new ways He calls. I hope you look for the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast and share it with friends and family so that we can be the generation that returns our children to godly lifestyles and desires. I pray that Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast and what you have heard on past episodes of Live With Eternal Perspective draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Thank you so much for your past support. I pray that even if you are no longer a parent of a child growing up in your home, you will find resources in Purposed Parent/Connected Child episodes that will strengthen your attachment to your grown child or grandchildren and draw you ever nearer to God. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 153 - Change From a Good to Godly Woman and Mother Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #153 – Change from a Good to Godly Woman and Mother Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. Goodness! I can’t believe school has started once again and the gorgeous days of summer will soon be moving out, ushering in crisper, cooler air. This time of year always makes me a little sad. I long for summer to last indefinitely. Since nothing lasts forever, seasons are a beautiful reminder of why we need to live with eternal perspective. Have you had days, weeks, or years of life that you want to last forever? Or maybe right now you feel the opposite. Do you wonder how much longer you have to endure the season you are experiencing? Change can be good. Especially when we aren’t aware that we are not living in ways that God desires for us. Change can become the catalyst that moves us to be in sync with the next transformation God has for us. I distinctly remember a time I’m glad I moved away from. There was a period in my life when I wanted to make sure I was a good person. A good woman. A good wife. A good daughter. A good mother. As my relationship with Jesus matured, I understood that limiting myself to “good” was “ungodly.” God calls believers to a much higher standard than good. Good isn’t good enough for God. It’s true that in the beginning when God created, He exclaimed that what He made was good. However, God is proclaiming His creations are good, not that we individually or collectively are. What I mean is that what God created is by His intelligent and perfect design. Anything He makes is good. Yet, in this sinful, fallen world, it didn’t take long for God’s creations to choose sin. Without Christ indwelling us, we continue to move farther from God. Without the Holy Spirit within us, there is no perfection or godliness. In fact, we are unable to claim the status of “good,” let alone “godly.” So how do you and I move from desiring a good life to building godly lives? Only through Christ. Once believers see our need for God, we begin to realize the need for His perfect Son, Jesus to pay the price for our sin. Once we realize the need for a Savior, and accept the free gift Jesus offers, we are able to live with His Holy Spirit within us. We are no longer bound to the world and the sinful temptations. Through relationship with Him, the Holy Word, and prayerful conversations with God, we can experience a shift from good to godly. That is, if we are seeking Him and a humble, obedient, close connection daily. What we desire must be held up to a mirror, so to speak, as we look at how our desires are reflected against what God calls for us in His holy Word. My heart fills with joy when I remember the time between when my first set of children were raised and before my husband and I knew that God was calling us to adopt a sweet baby from China. Before we knew our daughter was waiting for us, I was experiencing deeper growth in my spiritual walk with Christ. Slowly by slowly, I allowed God greater access to me. I wish I could profess to be one of those people who surrender fully in the moment they accept Christ, but the truth is that each of us have varying degrees of surrender throughout our lifetime. We never reach that finish line in this life. We are so very far beneath God, and so far from Him, that our lifetime should be focused on pursuing deeper relationship with Him and continuing to surrender self. As my relationship with Jesus deepened and widened, I thought back to when my husband and I had raised our first two children. I was not a Christian when my first two were born. Although I came to follow Jesus when they were young, I wasn’t well discipled. I wasted so many years thinking I was “good” and not striving to be godly. Would you like to know my deepest regret? Although my children always heard about Jesus, and knew I loved and followed Him, I did not know to intentionally disciple them. I didn’t yet understand that the Christian walk is a beautiful relationship between God and man. I didn’t understand the command in Deuteronomy 6:5-9, which says, “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” I assumed that what I was doing to teach my children about Jesus was enough. In reality, they were learning my limited faith, and since I was not growing as well as I should have been, they were only able to mimic a portion of my faith and not being discipled well to chase Christ for themselves. As my husband and I grew our walk with Jesus, we knew with certainty that God was calling us to travel to China to bring home the baby God had waiting to be ours. Before we went, we prayed together daily for the girl she would grow to be. Our heart desired that she be a light for Jesus, that she pursue Him with a pure heart, and that she would be an inspiration for others to follow Him. I remember the days I worked backwards, formulating a plan to raise her with very high goals. Ten years later when we returned to China to bring home our last child, the “master plan” for raising our girls for Christ had been practiced, and our youngest enabled us to continue the course with another beautiful soul to nourish for Jesus. Although there are so many important details I’m not including here, this story is so important to me, because our second step into parenting with a new generation of children was very intentional. My mind and heart was fixed, anchored on Christ through all obstacles. My husband and I committed to stand on that firm foundation. When deep waters swirled around us, when tragedy and troubles plagued our home, we tightened our grip on that three-fold cord that kept God in the center of all. No matter what happened, we remained committed to raising our girls and influencing our grown son and grandson for Christ. Just as I began this podcast almost four years ago through an act of obedience when I knew God was whispering to me to begin one, I know He is now calling me to end this show. I’ve waited through the summer months to ensure I knew for sure what He was calling, but I recently came to realize that waiting any longer to make sure my choice is good, or what God is calling when I know the peace I have in my heart to end the podcast is actually a form of disobedience. Even if I never intended it to be. So what is next? My heart sings with joy when I encourage and equip busy mothers to move past guilt, anxiety, frustration, or the variety of other emotions this world presses upon us. God has greatly pressed upon my heart the need for me, as an older mother, to wrap my arm around you and help you move from these emotions or feelings to a place of peace. I want to encourage and equip mothers to create close connection with Christ and her children and raise kids who chase Christ over culture. Mothers and grandmothers too, it is time to rise and raise children who know and honor God. The effects of this culture have run rampant for too long. How long will mothers sit back and watch as children follow peers over parents or Christ? It doesn’t matter how good a parent you want to be or are. God calls you and I to be holy, godly mothers. There is nothing greater we can do than fix our heart and mind above and focus on the methods given by God to raise children for Him. I invite you to follow my other podcast, Purposed Parent/Connected Child. I urge you to please leave a review and rate the show so that others may find it. If we don’t purposely lead our children to Christ, the world will sway them away. It starts with you and me. Our life must be so focused on living godly lives through Christ that our children clearly see Him through us and desire Him for themselves. It's time to stop the attachment our children have with peers and teach them the way to attachment with Christ. It starts with the parent. That means you and me. I have so much to share in future Purposed Parent/Connected Child episodes. A new season begins very soon. I pray you will be moved from a good to godly woman and mother as you listen to the episodes. Dear Heavenly Father, You alone are holy. You alone are greater than the good we desire. Move us from good to godly in the ways You know we need. Help us to be more and more pleasing to You each moment. May our heart and mind be in sync with Your desires for us as we move ever nearer to You. Father, I thank you for Your Word, Your perfect guidance. May we understand You better and please You more as we read and act in obedience to it. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to the Live With Eternal Perspective podcast for the last several years. This podcast has brought me and my family even closer to God and each other. I have witnessed our faith and obedience multiply because of this show. I truly hope that it has affected you in ways that move you to the woman God intended for you to be. As much as I loved this podcast, I feel in my spirit that God is calling me to end this chapter of obedience to Him, and I know that makes me available and humbly ready to serve in the new ways He calls. I hope you look for the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast and share it with friends and family so that we can be the generation that returns our children to godly lifestyles and desires. I pray that Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast and what you have heard on past episodes of Live With Eternal Perspective draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Thank you so much for your past support. I pray that even if you are no longer a parent of a child growing up in your home, you will find resources in Purposed Parent/Connected Child episodes that will strengthen your attachment to your grown child or grandchildren and draw you ever nearer to God.

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #016 – Gratitude Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Living with eternal perspective drives us to develop qualities that mold us into the person we were designed to be when God created us from nothing but His longing for us. One of the things I am so thankful for is the gift of time with my youngest child, who adores playing with me. We make it a point to devote a portion of each day to dedicated play time. She chooses what we do, and guess what it is 99% of the time. Legos. Knowing we will share these moments together daily allows my girl to rest in the truth that she is treasured. She is worth my attention. As we spend these moments together, I watch for areas she may be struggling with. Play time is especially important because it allows the creativity of our children to flow while also supporting their ability to process life, emotions, fears, and joys. When we play, I look for questions that are presented through conversation, as well as shown through her actions. I enjoy this simple method of forming thought processes and habits within my girl through a fun and unchallenging environment. My favorite times are when she allows her Lego figures to speak the truths she has learned, and that prove she has absorbed and is digesting, the messages she was taught. Yesterday, she devised a new plot in our ongoing storyline. Several baby dragons matured into full-grown creatures who were supposed to help save Lego city. Three of the four dragons grew beautiful wings, except the one I was supposed to play with. She built mine with tiny wings made of bricks instead of flowing, colorful wings. I looked at the other dragons and wondered why I didn’t get the opportunity to enjoy a pretty one. Before I began pouting, because who really wants to play with a whiny mother, I probed her with questions about when my dragon was going to grow a better set of wings. “She already has wings,” my daughter told me. “Why are they little ones?” I asked. “They aren’t little. They’re special,” she insisted with conviction. I looked at the dragon I held in my hands, then glanced at hers. Mine had bricked wings almost two inches long. The winged creatures she played with wore colorful, delicate attachments spanning eight to ten inches. “These wings look little compared to the other dragons,” I protested. “She is special. Trust me,” she replied with assurance. Her words struck me. Trust me. That is when I heard God whisper to my spirit. “Be grateful for this time with my beautiful child,” He spoke to me. “Look at these creations she has made with her eyes, as I look at you with my eyes of love.” I thought of God’s words, then replayed in my mind the words my daughter spoke so confidently. I remembered the love she shows me every day and how she gives of herself so unselfishly. Mentally, I began processing the past days we had played, those that built up the foundation of this storyline. All of a sudden, moments clicked into place. I understood the plot line she was creating with this tiny-winged dragon. “Special” is what she called this creation made for me. I believed this one was made to be a water dragon. “Did you make this one with tiny wings so that it can fly and swim,” I asked her. “Yes,” she answered with excitement. “I love it,” I assured her, seeing the unique abilities this animal possessed. “It’s the only one who can do both.” “Yes,” she said. Such special qualities this dragon held, and she entrusted it to me. In fact, it was designed for me. How often do we not understand what God crafts especially for us? How quickly do we when or complain that we don’t receive what we want or think we should? As we played out her story, I purposely made my dragon comment that she was the last one to develop into a larger dragon and that she was the only one with little wings. Finally, I made the creature realize that her wings were special and could switch to fins that carried her into an underwater land, where none of the other beasts could travel. Understanding that they were each uniquely created with special gifts given as God appoints according to His purposes was the main theme of playtime that day. Sharing time together in this way has helped my child understand and accept so much of life. It has undoubtedly deepened our relationship. Playing with my girl daily challenges my creativity and my compassion. It helps erase selfishness and desires that threaten to move me away from what is ultimately important in life. Entertaining my child with Legos may seem trivial, but devoting time together shows her how important she is and drives home the truth that God created her with an incredibly special set of skills and qualities that no one else has. As we played her creative storyline underscoring God’s truths and the importance of not comparing gifts and abilities, or complaining about what we receive, she was reminded without being told, that each person is conceived in the mind of our Heavenly Father for a specific purpose, just as each dragon was. Just as she was. Although she has heard this many times, as we built the truth into our story, she acted it out with a new sense of confidence that I had never seen. Her imagination had built a complete tale from core beliefs we helped shape, and I seized the opportunity to applaud and confirm what she was living and releasing. Gratitude filled my heart and spirit for the abundance of lessons my daughter had learned and now applied, and for the lessons God was still crafting in both of us. Gratitude is built on a foundation of trust. Our Heavenly Father knows what He is doing. When we trust Him, we can be thankful no matter our circumstances. Have you noticed that life brings so many unexpected events and turns? In fact, days rarely run smoothly. As I prepare to air this podcast, many of my friends are struggling or living through hardships and I am lifting many prayers for them. My family is personally enduring months of zero salary and no medical insurance, due to the COVID-19 work restrictions. Heartache touches each of us in different ways and at various times. None of us are immune to trouble or pain. How do we keep gratitude constant in our hearts and on our lips? The key is to maintain gratefulness. There is a definite difference between living with gratitude and without. I view living without gratefulness as falling from a ship in the middle of a raging ocean without a life vest. Maintaining an attitude of praise and appreciativeness, despite hardships, sustains and increases our faith. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 reminds us, ”Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” What does this verse mean? Those of us who know and follow Jesus should reflect a prayerful life. We don’t walk around in a trance praying every moment, but live with a prayerful attitude and mindset. We converse with Jesus as easily as we breathe and unconsciously think of and speak to Him. Our life reflects an attitude of prayer which easily raises acknowledgement not only for the good gifts we receive, but also in times of hardship, because we understand and acknowledge that God is in control and He does work all things together for good for those who are called according to His purpose, just as we are taught in Romans 8:28. Everything is an opportunity for us to choose to accept a blessing, even when it is disguised. My prayers often include pleas to God, asking Him to allow me to always live with a heart that carries thanksgiving and that worships and relies on God no matter my circumstances. Does that mean praise always flows from my heart and lips? Not on its own. For me, it is similar to training to be an athlete. I have to work my gratitude muscles, intentionally strengthening them so that if I don’t feel like being thankful when hurtful or difficult trials come, I’m equipped to rely on the training that automatically reverts my thoughts and heart to praising God during that particular load. The truth is that nothing should separate us from praising and worshipping God. When I want to complain that I have sacks of grocery items to disinfect before putting them away, my spirit immediately erases the burden mindset and writes thankfulness in its place. By constantly looking for areas in which I may praise God, my mind and heart begin to subconsciously search for all the blessings I have. Even in the worst of times, God bolsters my faith to enhance my relationship with Him and change the way I view this life. When my oldest daughter died, I focused on the way God carried and equipped me to maintain joy despite tremendous heartache. We must realize we have been given this moment to allow God to shift our attitude and perception into a Holy alignment with His. My youngest child is releasing more of her history to me. The moments come in broken spurts of memories. Each time she confides in me, I recognize the bravery and trust she is releasing as she allows herself to relive a time she rarely remembers with happiness. My job as her mother, her mentor in Christ, is to direct her pain and heartache to Him. As I watch and listen to her, as I rely on Him to lead me to help her purge the old trauma and disappointment from her soul, I am thankful that He has sent her to me to parent. What a gift I have been presented. Despite a difficult and disappointing past, she is being taught to voice her emotions, walk through the hurt, and find hope and trust in Him. I am teaching her to live with praise and gratefulness, even when she does not understand. Romans 5:3-5 says, “Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” Peace and joy come to us, despite difficulties and hurts, rejections and failures, when we exercise gratitude. At first, we may not be able to thank God. As we draw nearer to Him, we recognize God’s sovereignty in our life and allow Him to shift our mindset to peaceful expectation of His provision. He will never fail us when we take the steps that lead us to be thankful despite suffering or pain, disappointments and failures. The answers are not always what we desire, but they are always what He needs to accomplish His purposes and that will eventually, if we allow it, bring us to our knees before Him in humble thanksgiving and praise. Not always for the tragedy or hardship, but for the closeness we find with Him through it. The hardest times in my life have been soothed by Him. Although I never want to live the circumstances again, especially those carved by deep loss, I am overwhelmed by the measures the Creator of the Universe went to in order to move me exactly where I am the most effective for Him and where I unite in deeper communion with Jesus. Although I will never be exactly where I should be this side of Heaven, I see the changes He makes in me daily. I know He is real. I know He is for me and never against me. 2 Corinthians 4:15 says, “All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.” The ways the Lord has impacted my life, carrying me each moment and replacing a shattered heart with joy that surpasses earthly understanding, the way He has performed miracles as I step out in obedience to Him, forces my heart to desire pleasing Him above all else. Hebrews 12:28 reminds us, “ Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and to worship God acceptably, with reverence and awe.” What would be the greatest blessings God could bestow on each of us? The ability to see each other and the world through His eyes, to love one another as He does, to acknowledge the new mercies we receive from Him every morning, to purposely renew our spirit through Him each moment, to keep our eyes and hearts focused on Him, and to react in situations as He would, even through persecution and sacrifice. If we ask Him and seek to build these qualities daily through Him, He will honor our prayer because it is in alignment with how He would desire us to live. Romans 6:13 instructs, “Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to Him as an instrument of righteousness.” How do we shift from our selfish, fleshly, self-absorbed mindset to one that desires a Christ-like perspective in all ways? Only through a deep relationship with Jesus Christ. What are ways we can strengthen our walk with Jesus through abundant praise and thanksgiving? 1. We must release fear. When we are anxious or worrisome, or hold onto fear, we are placing our trust in self, not our Heavenly Father. 2. We must realize how we worship the clock. Time has become another master in our lives. In order to savor moments with God and our loved ones, we simply need to slow down. As we relax, we begin to hear our Father and can acknowledge the gifts we have received with praise and thanksgiving. Once we allow gratitude to enter our mindset, we build the capacity to see adversity with a new measure of appreciativeness, for we believe the work God will do through us if we allow Him to. 3. We must desire abundance. If we allow thoughts and emotions to rule our attitudes and actions, we may never receive the blessings of living with a grateful heart and spirit. Do you know people who never seem appreciative of anything? Do you want to be around them? What about those who complain constantly? Do you want to live like that? Neither do I. In order to desire abundance, we must release our selfish expectations at the foot of the cross. What does Jesus desire for me? How can I please Him? What do I need to shift in my life to acquire the skills to follow where He calls? Those are steps to walking with abundance. Only through allowing Him to carve the life we were created to live, will we truly live with abundance. 4. We must be obedient. When we trust the Lord to execute the plans He has for us, we step out in faith, knowing that beyond the fear lives joy. With joy, we freely offer thankfulness and gratitude. How do we train ourselves to live with abundant gratefulness that ignores circumstances or disappointment and focuses on God’s abundant love and mercy? 1. Ask God to fill us with the recognition of His blessings and a grateful heart and spirit. 2. Cling nearer to Jesus through a prayerful life that includes Him in all we are and do. 3. Develop a deeper relationship with Him because we desire sweet fellowship. 4. Listen to praise music that helps us to recognize the attributes and actions of our Heavenly Father. 5. Wear our Bible out through study and reflection in God’s word. Use this gift as a tool to strengthen all areas of our life and as the manual it was presented to be. The life of Jesus should be our mentor and God’s promises, our hope. 6. Memorize God’s word. If memorization is difficult, write His word or read and reflect on it, so that it is easy to recognize anything counter to His truths. 7. Journal prayer requests and God’s answers to them. This is a practice I stopped making time for, although I used to write in journals quite a bit. I sometimes miss the wonder I once felt when I read old entries and remember long-forgotten recorded prayers and the ways God answered them. 8. Add service to your routine. When we forsake our needs or desires and serve others with genuine joy, we receive so much more than we give. Find an organization you believe in or simply offer kindness in ways unique to the individuals you want to bless. God will show you who He wants to touch through you if you ask Him to. 9. Monitor the words and tone you extend to others. When we live with an awareness of how we are perceived by others and how what we show them of Jesus through our words and actions can affect their eternity, we begin to care much more about how we spend our time and treat our loved ones, as well as strangers. 10. Forgive. Living with gratitude is not possible when we harbor a bitter spirit or hold unforgiveness closer than we hold onto Jesus. When we live contrary to what God calls for us, we cannot step into freedom through what He has done for us. When we cannot forgive, we live counter to the sacrifice Jesus made for each one of us. If He can love enough to offer complete forgiveness through His death for you and for me, how can we justify neglecting absolution to others? Gratitude is an emotion and an action. The closer we live to Him, the more thankfulness resides in and seeps from us, just as every quality He desires for us continues to grow through our eternal relationship with Him. When our days are hard and no relief seems to be in sight, we cling to the words penned in the diary of our soul, the Bible. Meditating on the verses God offers for every need brings us closer to true worship and abundant living, leading to extravagant recognition of all we have been given. Psalm 7:17 says, “I will give thanks to the Lord because of His righteousness; I will sing the praises of the Lord Most High.” Psalm 9:1 says, “I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” James 1:2-4 calls us to, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” Offering praise in the most difficult times, when the pain life in this world exceeds joy, we discover the higher purpose and benefits of a grateful heart. Living as though we already carry a heart of gladness, forces it to sprout. As Jesus hung on the cross, separated for a time from His Heavenly Father, bearing the sin of each one of us, He no doubt still carried gratitude in His heart. As he had dined with his disciples at the Last Supper, He knew what faced Him, yet offered divine gratitude as He broke bread and drank from the cup He had been assigned. Psalm 28:7 says, “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song, I praise Him.” When we realize and deeply understand that all we have and are comes from God for a divine purpose, and recognize the love He carries despite anything we do, we are able to lift pure praise as David did in 1 Chronicles 29:12-13, “Both riches and honor come from You, and You rule over all. In Your hand are power and might, and in Your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all. And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name.” or offer praise as Paul did in Ephesians 5:19b-20, “Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Is it your desire to live your life with a bitter, selfish spirit and angry demeanor? Then live without with gratitude. Or do you desire to cultivate and plant contentment and gratitude that grows God’s joyful spirit in your soul, that exhibits your joy and thankfulness for the sacrifice Jesus made for you? Offer gratitude to God and others daily and watch your spirit attract more joy and contentment with each praise you lift and share. Thank you so much for listening to this podcast. Have you found value in our weekly topics? I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you want to hear more from this podcast, please subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. I also encourage you to leave a review. In order for others to be able to hear about Jesus through Live With Eternal Perspective, I need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift this podcast higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Right now, because the podcast is new and the following is small, listeners won’t find it unless they specifically know the name to search for. Please share this podcast with a friend. I want everyone to hear encouragement in Jesus and find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 016 Gratitude Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #016 – Gratitude Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you today to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Living with eternal perspective drives us to develop qualities that mold us into the person we were designed to be when God created us from nothing but His longing for us. One of the things I am so thankful for is the gift of time with my youngest child, who adores playing with me. We make it a point to devote a portion of each day to dedicated play time. She chooses what we do, and guess what it is 99% of the time. Legos. Knowing we will share these moments together daily allows my girl to rest in the truth that she is treasured. She is worth my attention. As we spend these moments together, I watch for areas she may be struggling with. Play time is especially important because it allows the creativity of our children to flow while also supporting their ability to process life, emotions, fears, and joys. When we play, I look for questions that are presented through conversation, as well as shown through her actions. I enjoy this simple method of forming thought processes and habits within my girl through a fun and unchallenging environment. My favorite times are when she allows her Lego figures to speak the truths she has learned, and that prove she has absorbed and is digesting, the messages she was taught. Yesterday, she devised a new plot in our ongoing storyline. Several baby dragons matured into full-grown creatures who were supposed to help save Lego city. Three of the four dragons grew beautiful wings, except the one I was supposed to play with. She built mine with tiny wings made of bricks instead of flowing, colorful wings. I looked at the other dragons and wondered why I didn’t get the opportunity to enjoy a pretty one. Before I began pouting, because who really wants to play with a whiny mother, I probed her with questions about when my dragon was going to grow a better set of wings. “She already has wings,” my daughter told me. “Why are they little ones?” I asked. “They aren’t little. They’re special,” she insisted with conviction. I looked at the dragon I held in my hands, then glanced at hers. Mine had bricked wings almost two inches long. The winged creatures she played with wore colorful, delicate attachments spanning eight to ten inches. “These wings look little compared to the other dragons,” I protested. “She is special. Trust me,” she replied with assurance. Her words struck me. Trust me. That is when I heard God whisper to my spirit. “Be grateful for this time with my beautiful child,” He spoke to me. “Look at these creations she has made with her eyes, as I look at you with my eyes of love.” I thought of God’s words, then replayed in my mind the words my daughter spoke so confidently. I remembered the love she shows me every day and how she gives of herself so unselfishly. Mentally, I began processing the past days we had played, those that built up the foundation of this storyline. All of a sudden, moments clicked into place. I understood the plot line she was creating with this tiny-winged dragon. “Special” is what she called this creation made for me. I believed this one was made to be a water dragon. “Did you make this one with tiny wings so that it can fly and swim,” I asked her. “Yes,” she answered with excitement. “I love it,” I assured her, seeing the unique abilities this animal possessed. “It’s the only one who can do both.” “Yes,” she said. Such special qualities this dragon held, and she entrusted it to me. In fact, it was designed for me. How often do we not understand what God crafts especially for us? How quickly do we when or complain that we don’t receive what we want or think we should? As we played out her story, I purposely made my dragon comment that she was the last one to develop into a larger dragon and that she was the only one with little wings. Finally, I made the creature realize that her wings were special and could switch to fins that carried her into an underwater land, where none of the other beasts could travel. Understanding that they were each uniquely created with special gifts given as God appoints according to His purposes was the main theme of playtime that day. Sharing time together in this way has helped my child understand and accept so much of life. It has undoubtedly deepened our relationship. Playing with my girl daily challenges my creativity and my compassion. It helps erase selfishness and desires that threaten to move me away from what is ultimately important in life. Entertaining my child with Legos may seem trivial, but devoting time together shows her how important she is and drives home the truth that God created her with an incredibly special set of skills and qualities that no one else has. As we played her creative storyline underscoring God’s truths and the importance of not comparing gifts and abilities, or complaining about what we receive, she was reminded without being told, that each person is conceived in the mind of our Heavenly Father for a specific purpose, just as each dragon was. Just as she was. Although she has heard this many times, as we built the truth into our story, she acted it out with a new sense of confidence that I had never seen. Her imagination had built a complete tale from core beliefs we helped shape, and I seized the opportunity to applaud and confirm what she was living and releasing. Gratitude filled my heart and spirit for the abundance of lessons my daughter had learned and now applied, and for the lessons God was still crafting in both of us. Gratitude is built on a foundation of trust. Our Heavenly Father knows what He is doing. When we trust Him, we can be thankful no matter our circumstances. Have you noticed that life brings so many unexpected events and turns? In fact, days rarely run smoothly. As I prepare to air this podcast, many of my friends are struggling or living through hardships and I am lifting many prayers for them. My family is personally enduring months of zero salary and no medical insurance, due to the COVID-19 work restrictions. Heartache touches each of us in different ways and at various times. None of us are immune to trouble or pain. How do we keep gratitude constant in our hearts and on our lips? The key is to maintain gratefulness. There is a definite difference between living with gratitude and without. I view living without gratefulness as falling from a ship in the middle of a raging ocean without a life vest. Maintaining an attitude of praise and appreciativeness, despite hardships, sustains and increases our faith. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 reminds us, ”Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” What does this verse mean? Those of us who know and follow Jesus should reflect a prayerful life. We don’t walk around in a trance praying every moment, but live with a prayerful attitude and mindset. We converse with Jesus as easily as we breathe and unconsciously think of and speak to Him. Our life reflects an attitude of prayer which easily raises acknowledgement not only for the good gifts we receive, but also in times of hardship, because we understand and acknowledge that God is in control and He does work all things together for good for those who are called according to His purpose, just as we are taught in Romans 8:28. Everything is an opportunity for us to choose to accept a blessing, even when it is disguised. My prayers often include pleas to God, asking Him to allow me to always live with a heart that carries thanksgiving and that worships and relies on God no matter my circumstances. Does that mean praise always flows from my heart and lips? Not on its own. For me, it is similar to training to be an athlete. I have to work my gratitude muscles, intentionally strengthening them so that if I don’t feel like being thankful when hurtful or difficult trials come, I’m equipped to rely on the training that automatically reverts my thoughts and heart to praising God during that particular load. The truth is that nothing should separate us from praising and worshipping God. When I want to complain that I have sacks of grocery items to disinfect before putting them away, my spirit immediately erases the burden mindset and writes thankfulness in its place. By constantly looking for areas in which I may praise God, my mind and heart begin to subconsciously search for all the blessings I have. Even in the worst of times, God bolsters my faith to enhance my relationship with Him and change the way I view this life. When my oldest daughter died, I focused on the way God carried and equipped me to maintain joy despite tremendous heartache. We must realize we have been given this moment to allow God to shift our attitude and perception into a Holy alignment with His. My youngest child is releasing more of her history to me. The moments come in broken spurts of memories. Each time she confides in me, I recognize the bravery and trust she is releasing as she allows herself to relive a time she rarely remembers with happiness. My job as her mother, her mentor in Christ, is to direct her pain and heartache to Him. As I watch and listen to her, as I rely on Him to lead me to help her purge the old trauma and disappointment from her soul, I am thankful that He has sent her to me to parent. What a gift I have been presented. Despite a difficult and disappointing past, she is being taught to voice her emotions, walk through the hurt, and find hope and trust in Him. I am teaching her to live with praise and gratefulness, even when she does not understand. Romans 5:3-5 says, “Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” Peace and joy come to us, despite difficulties and hurts, rejections and failures, when we exercise gratitude. At first, we may not be able to thank God. As we draw nearer to Him, we recognize God’s sovereignty in our life and allow Him to shift our mindset to peaceful expectation of His provision. He will never fail us when we take the steps that lead us to be thankful despite suffering or pain, disappointments and failures. The answers are not always what we desire, but they are always what He needs to accomplish His purposes and that will eventually, if we allow it, bring us to our knees before Him in humble thanksgiving and praise. Not always for the tragedy or hardship, but for the closeness we find with Him through it. The hardest times in my life have been soothed by Him. Although I never want to live the circumstances again, especially those carved by deep loss, I am overwhelmed by the measures the Creator of the Universe went to in order to move me exactly where I am the most effective for Him and where I unite in deeper communion with Jesus. Although I will never be exactly where I should be this side of Heaven, I see the changes He makes in me daily. I know He is real. I know He is for me and never against me. 2 Corinthians 4:15 says, “All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.” The ways the Lord has impacted my life, carrying me each moment and replacing a shattered heart with joy that surpasses earthly understanding, the way He has performed miracles as I step out in obedience to Him, forces my heart to desire pleasing Him above all else. Hebrews 12:28 reminds us, “ Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and to worship God acceptably, with reverence and awe.” What would be the greatest blessings God could bestow on each of us? The ability to see each other and the world through His eyes, to love one another as He does, to acknowledge the new mercies we receive from Him every morning, to purposely renew our spirit through Him each moment, to keep our eyes and hearts focused on Him, and to react in situations as He would, even through persecution and sacrifice. If we ask Him and seek to build these qualities daily through Him, He will honor our prayer because it is in alignment with how He would desire us to live. Romans 6:13 instructs, “Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to Him as an instrument of righteousness.” How do we shift from our selfish, fleshly, self-absorbed mindset to one that desires a Christ-like perspective in all ways? Only through a deep relationship with Jesus Christ. What are ways we can strengthen our walk with Jesus through abundant praise and thanksgiving? 1. We must release fear. When we are anxious or worrisome, or hold onto fear, we are placing our trust in self, not our Heavenly Father. 2. We must realize how we worship the clock. Time has become another master in our lives. In order to savor moments with God and our loved ones, we simply need to slow down. As we relax, we begin to hear our Father and can acknowledge the gifts we have received with praise and thanksgiving. Once we allow gratitude to enter our mindset, we build the capacity to see adversity with a new measure of appreciativeness, for we believe the work God will do through us if we allow Him to. 3. We must desire abundance. If we allow thoughts and emotions to rule our attitudes and actions, we may never receive the blessings of living with a grateful heart and spirit. Do you know people who never seem appreciative of anything? Do you want to be around them? What about those who complain constantly? Do you want to live like that? Neither do I. In order to desire abundance, we must release our selfish expectations at the foot of the cross. What does Jesus desire for me? How can I please Him? What do I need to shift in my life to acquire the skills to follow where He calls? Those are steps to walking with abundance. Only through allowing Him to carve the life we were created to live, will we truly live with abundance. 4. We must be obedient. When we trust the Lord to execute the plans He has for us, we step out in faith, knowing that beyond the fear lives joy. With joy, we freely offer thankfulness and gratitude. How do we train ourselves to live with abundant gratefulness that ignores circumstances or disappointment and focuses on God’s abundant love and mercy? 1. Ask God to fill us with the recognition of His blessings and a grateful heart and spirit. 2. Cling nearer to Jesus through a prayerful life that includes Him in all we are and do. 3. Develop a deeper relationship with Him because we desire sweet fellowship. 4. Listen to praise music that helps us to recognize the attributes and actions of our Heavenly Father. 5. Wear our Bible out through study and reflection in God’s word. Use this gift as a tool to strengthen all areas of our life and as the manual it was presented to be. The life of Jesus should be our mentor and God’s promises, our hope. 6. Memorize God’s word. If memorization is difficult, write His word or read and reflect on it, so that it is easy to recognize anything counter to His truths. 7. Journal prayer requests and God’s answers to them. This is a practice I stopped making time for, although I used to write in journals quite a bit. I sometimes miss the wonder I once felt when I read old entries and remember long-forgotten recorded prayers and the ways God answered them. 8. Add service to your routine. When we forsake our needs or desires and serve others with genuine joy, we receive so much more than we give. Find an organization you believe in or simply offer kindness in ways unique to the individuals you want to bless. God will show you who He wants to touch through you if you ask Him to. 9. Monitor the words and tone you extend to others. When we live with an awareness of how we are perceived by others and how what we show them of Jesus through our words and actions can affect their eternity, we begin to care much more about how we spend our time and treat our loved ones, as well as strangers. 10. Forgive. Living with gratitude is not possible when we harbor a bitter spirit or hold unforgiveness closer than we hold onto Jesus. When we live contrary to what God calls for us, we cannot step into freedom through what He has done for us. When we cannot forgive, we live counter to the sacrifice Jesus made for each one of us. If He can love enough to offer complete forgiveness through His death for you and for me, how can we justify neglecting absolution to others? Gratitude is an emotion and an action. The closer we live to Him, the more thankfulness resides in and seeps from us, just as every quality He desires for us continues to grow through our eternal relationship with Him. When our days are hard and no relief seems to be in sight, we cling to the words penned in the diary of our soul, the Bible. Meditating on the verses God offers for every need brings us closer to true worship and abundant living, leading to extravagant recognition of all we have been given. Psalm 7:17 says, “I will give thanks to the Lord because of His righteousness; I will sing the praises of the Lord Most High.” Psalm 9:1 says, “I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” James 1:2-4 calls us to, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” Offering praise in the most difficult times, when the pain life in this world exceeds joy, we discover the higher purpose and benefits of a grateful heart. Living as though we already carry a heart of gladness, forces it to sprout. As Jesus hung on the cross, separated for a time from His Heavenly Father, bearing the sin of each one of us, He no doubt still carried gratitude in His heart. As he had dined with his disciples at the Last Supper, He knew what faced Him, yet offered divine gratitude as He broke bread and drank from the cup He had been assigned. Psalm 28:7 says, “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song, I praise Him.” When we realize and deeply understand that all we have and are comes from God for a divine purpose, and recognize the love He carries despite anything we do, we are able to lift pure praise as David did in 1 Chronicles 29:12-13, “Both riches and honor come from You, and You rule over all. In Your hand are power and might, and in Your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all. And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name.” or offer praise as Paul did in Ephesians 5:19b-20, “Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Is it your desire to live your life with a bitter, selfish spirit and angry demeanor? Then live without with gratitude. Or do you desire to cultivate and plant contentment and gratitude that grows God’s joyful spirit in your soul, that exhibits your joy and thankfulness for the sacrifice Jesus made for you? Offer gratitude to God and others daily and watch your spirit attract more joy and contentment with each praise you lift and share. Thank you so much for listening to this podcast. Have you found value in our weekly topics? I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you want to hear more from this podcast, please subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. I also encourage you to leave a review. In order for others to be able to hear about Jesus through Live With Eternal Perspective, I need the support of listeners who will invest a few minutes in subscribing and reviewing to lift this podcast higher on the charts so that the platform shows it to everyone. Right now, because the podcast is new and the following is small, listeners won’t find it unless they specifically know the name to search for. Please share this podcast with a friend. I want everyone to hear encouragement in Jesus and find new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast - Episode 088 - The Truth About Affirmations Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 088 – The Truth About Affirmations Thank you for taking time to share your day with me. I pray this podcast deepens your walk with Jesus and your children. I have some questions for you to ponder as we start the episode today. What do you do when you desire change in your life? Where is the first place you seek to find direction? What gives you strength? Where do you find hope that change can occur? Many people turn to a popular source of hope for change. Affirmations are often used in today’s society. Many coaches, speakers, and influencers recommend their use for daily life and business success. You may wonder what affirmations are. I think an easy description is that affirmations are a method that some people use to change beliefs or behaviors. Affirmations can be written or spoken and are to be used as if they are “already happening.” Some examples would be: “I am successful in my career” or “I attract wealth.” As people use affirmations they create or choose, the written or spoken word is meant to “reprogram” the mind, encourage, and change beliefs or actions about self, life, business, finances, and so on. Affirmations are believed to alter thoughts and actions as they attract what the user desires. Affirmations may be popular, but as I describe them, do you think they sound biblical? As you listen, can you see that they actually sound secular? A word like “attract” is more often a “New Age” term and should alert believers to beware. As we continue this episode, ask God to give you discernment as to whether you should be using affirmations. I’ll show you why I think He calls us to another source. Scripture is very clear that Christians don’t carry transformative power, except for that of the Holy Spirit alive within us. So why would we believe that speaking affirmations that are simply words and thoughts coming from human experiences, beliefs, and desires would be worth repeating in an effort to manifest change ? Jeremiah 17:9 says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it ?” Romans 8:7 says, “The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so .” Some proponents of speaking affirmations believe that using them “raises vibrations” or “channels abundance.” Again, this is stepping into New Age terminology and beliefs that are in opposition to God and His Word. Others in favor of using affirmations may believe they’re using positivity to create changes within themselves. They use the affirmations as visual reminders of their goals, prompts to remember goals, encouragement to get there, or inspiration to promote change. When you begin to use affirmations, you learn that there are guidelines – or rules as to how to correctly apply affirmations, such as when and how to use them. As followers of Christ, we have been set free of worldly rules of this type. In fact, we must remember that Scripture offers the best guide for creating desired changes in words, behavior, actions, and successes. You don’t need to chant or write words a certain number of times or get caught up in remembering to recite those affirmations daily. Users of affirmations insist they seem to work. I think the mind is pliable and feeds from the positivity and consistency. However, I also believe that affirmations pose a danger in swaying a person to rely on self instead of Savior . The Bible clearly warns believers against self-reliance. As users repeat the practice of claiming affirmations there is increasing reliance on self and decreasing dependance on God. That is not a safe place for any Christian. Let’s back up a bit and start as I often do by finding the meaning of the word affirm . The word is used “to state or assert positively .” Another definition is to “maintain a true .” Simply making a statement and believing it to be true isn’t as impactful or lasting as prayerful consideration of what God calls you to do - or relying on Him to shift your thoughts, actions, reactions, or circumstances. If you’re a user of affirmations, please don’t shut out what I am saying. Would you please prayerfully consider the message I am delivering? As believers, Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight .” Rely on God to “affirm” you, your future, and what you can or should do. Scripture is clear that you are instructed to take thoughts captive for Christ. In fact, 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 says, “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ .” Scripture is both your offense and defense . We know from Scripture that the Holy Spirit is the source of the Word . 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. ” You can trust God’s powerful, holy Word. Through it, you are equipped for every good work. Just what is a good work ? What you discern from following God through a maturing walk with Jesus and prayerful consideration of His voice and will . 2 Peter 1:20-21 says, “Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things. For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit .” Scripture proves that not even prophets could trust self. They were merely humans who spoke from God as the Holy Spirit moved within them. The Holy Spirit, as the third person of the Trinity, is Truth , as God is Truth . The Holy Spirit always works in accordance with Scripture, never contradictory. Since the Word comes from the Source of the Holy Spirit it is the very breath and life of God. Spoken word (and breath) was used by God to create the world, the universe, you and me. Hebrews 11:3 says, “By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible .” What power comes from God and His word! In Ephesians 6:17 , we read, “Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God .” Using this image of the sword of the Spirit, we better understand that the strength we hold comes directly from God . As Ephesians speaks of the sword, remember that this is a deadly weapon used in war. The imagery used in this verse reminds us again of the mightiness of God and His Word. Proverbs 18:21a says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue .” Great good or destructive harm can be achieved through the tongue. When you speak affirmations you are choosing to affirm life or death. Anything not based on God’s truth is speaking death. Anything based on power of self over Savior carries deception and death. Do you remember Jesus’s reaction when confronted by Satan in the desert? Scripture was the weapon He used with strength and success . Jesus didn’t bargain with the devil or speak positive affirmations. He went straight to the source of wisdom and power. God’s Holy Word . The best defense you and I can employ in this world is to use Scripture as Jesus did. Our Savior didn’t need to fight or look to self. The Word did all He needed. Just as it does for you and me. Our offense is also the Word. As Scripture is used in preaching, coaching, and counseling we recognize power purposed by our sovereign and holy Heavenly Father as He prepares us to rely on His strength and skill. In a culture increasingly falling away from Christ, we must recognize and resist the pull to affirm self . Dare to deepen your faith and consistently proclaim God’s Word as the foundation of Truth on which to build your basis of identity, morality, or change. As you stand on the Word of God as foundational for your thoughts, dreams, and desires and speak His Words as truth over situations, Satan gains zero foothold over your mind, words, or actions. Instead, you move ever closer to the One who created you, defines you, and loves you with an everlasting source of love, hope, and truth. Seek more of Him and less of self, regardless of what this world may instruct. You will begin to recognize the dreams He planted deep within you when you were created. You will accomplish much more than you can imagine or hope for. How can we think that our words hold power to transform? It is nothing more than pride . Do you see the obedience and power in using God’s Word? When people rely on affirmations made by self , they fall victim to this verse from 2 Corinthians 4:4 which says, “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.” Instead believer, remember John 1:3 which says, “All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.” God is the expert on you. He knows the dreams built within you that you may not have even discovered yet. Build your walk with Him through Christ and seek His thoughts on what to affirm in your life through His holy Word, through prayer, and through relationship with Him. Allow Scripture, not affirmations, to be the force that rewires your brain pathways and changes your outlook, desires, and actions . Using Scripture is easy. Start with several verses from the Bible. Turn those lines into words you can use to affirm truth, power, and strength from God in your life. First, I’ll read the Scripture as it is in the Bible, then using inspiration from that verse, I’ll craft biblical affirmations of God’s truth as examples for you to use and to begin building additional statements for you to use. I love calling these Scripture Statements . 2 Corinthians 1:4 says, “Who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God .” Statement : God is my comforter through any tribulation. He gives me assurance and ability to comfort others in trouble using the comfort and strength He gives to me. 2 Corinthians 3:5 says, “Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God .” Statement: Through God I am competent to claim excellence. Psalm 116:1-2 says, “I love the Lord, because He has heard My voice and my supplications. Because He has inclined His ear to me, therefore I will call upon Him as long as I live. ” Statement: God hears every one of my prayers. Psalm 37:4 says, “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart .” Statement: I delight in the Lord! He knows the true desires of my heart and will give me all I need. Psalm 46:1 says, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble .” Statement: God is my refuge and strength. Psalm 56:3 says, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in You .” Statement: I have no fear, because I trust in the Lord. Philippians 4:7 says, “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus .” Statement: God’s peace is far above my understanding, and He is the one guarding my heart and mind. Colossians 2:10 says, “And you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.” Statement: I am complete in every way through God, the head of all principality and power. 2 Corinthians 12:10 says, “That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong .” Statement: Because of Christ, I delight in weaknesses and difficulties because my strength is complete in Him. Isaiah 43:18-19 says, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland .” Statement: No matter my past, I am renewed through Christ! Through God, I have a new way of life and desires. Psalm 94:19 says, “In the multitude of my thoughts within me thy comforts delight my sou l.” Statement: God comforts and delights my heart and soul. 2 Corinthians 5:7 says, “For we live by faith, not by sight .” Statement: I don’t care what this world brings. I live by faith in the Lord, not by sight. Joshua 1:9 says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go .” Statement: I am strong and courageous because the Lord is with me wherever I go. Do you see the power God gives you through His Word and the Holy Spirit within you? Don’t disobediently rely on man-made words to attempt change in your life. Instead, seek God first and use the power He has gifted you in supernatural, holy ways. Dear Heavenly Father, how great You are! We praise You for giving us the gift of Your Holy Word and the strength and guidance You provide to us through it. Father, help us remember to rely on Scripture rather than self. Help us to call on our Savior over self. Help us have your discernment and wisdom. Enable us to discern with Your insight when we are moving away from You or following worldly methods. Bring us back to You and Your will and ways. Help us utilize Your Word as the foundation for our beliefs and identity. Help us craft change in our life because we rely on Scripture and call on Your mighty power. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. If you’re a working mom inside or outside the home and need an easy way to begin teaching your babies, toddlers, or preschoolers about Jesus, send me an email at info@terrihitt.com . I’m currently working on a devotional to bring your children to the feet of Jesus early. Let me know you’re interested, and I’ll let you know how to receive a copy. Also, you may have heard me talk about the Set-Apart Collective often in this podcast. Why do I share it so often? I know the program works. Through 8 weeks of one-on-one and group coaching, along with Scripturally-based materials I provide, you will complete 8 steps that include the following: Seek God First, Establish Identity, Teach Truth, A Set-Apart Woman, Parent Set-Apart Kids, Arm for Battle, Relationships, and Training. What you learn and solidify in your personal life will directly affect the way you serve God and parent for Him. It will help you construct godly confidence and esteem through Christ in your children. Whether you’re expecting or your kids are out of the house, I guarantee that the work you do in this collective will carry you closer to Christ and your children. If you’re ready to invest in the future of yourself and your children, contact me at info@terrihitt.com for more details or visit terrihitt.com/setapart. Because you are a podcast listener, let me know you heard about the special price I’m offering you. I seriously want you to experience results and live a set-apart life with a set-apart family. Instead of a $997 value, I’ll give you a discount code that enables you to pay only $247. If you are serious about parenting with eternal perspective and raising children to chase Christ over culture, I’m making this very affordable and easy to do. Why? Because supporting and encouraging mothers to rest in Christ and pursue a holy relationship with Him so they purposely raise set-apart children is the cry of my heart. Godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset a mother carries. That’s why I’ve created the Set-Apart Collective. If you’ve decided peers and culture won’t be the main influence over your child and you desire to parent to prepare your child for eternity with Christ, the Set-Apart Collective, will deepen your walk with Christ. You’ll learn a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family. The Set-Apart Collective is open now. Please send me an email at info@terrihitt.com to let me know you’d like to receive information or look online at terrihitt.com/setapart. We can also set up a 15 minute call to see whether it would be a good fit for you. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. If you connected in some way with this episode, it only takes a minute to leave a rating and review. I’m asking you to please do that. It makes it easier for others to find the podcast. Since you and I know that the most trusted recommendations are by word of mouth, would you please choose a friend to recommend the show to? Let them know that the podcast is found at terrihitt.com, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. Imagine the change we will see in the way mothers parent for Christ if they learn to be intentional, too. Remember, if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will likely sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection. 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< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 073 - Equip Your Child to Stand Against Sin Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 073 – Equip Your Child to Stand Against Sin Our youngest daughter has a bedtime curfew depending on what day of the week it is. She’s really very good at keeping to the schedule, even when she doesn’t want to. But as my husband was getting ready to leave for work this morning, he shared a story that happened last night when they were watching television together after I went to bed. When her set bedtime arrived on the clock, she started to gather her things to go to sleep. Because they were watching a show that wasn’t over yet, my husband said she could tell me he told her to stay up. “But that would be a lie,” she said. He explained that it wasn’t a lie if he told her she could stay up later, and that he was telling her she could. The next evening, I was already in bed again when they were continuing the series they were watching. When it was time to go to bed, my husband asked her if she was leaving, and she wittily remarked, “Unless you want me to stay.” My daughter felt so strongly about getting to bed at the proper time because she has followed that expectation daily for years, understanding that obeying is a promise between us when I gave her the bedtimes. She recognizes that even if I am not there to remind her of when to go to bed, she is still under authority to make the correct choice. It took convincing from my husband that he also had the authority to tell her she could stay up past her bedtime. While our daughter does need to understand that as her parent, Daddy can alter her bedtime so they can enjoy time together if I’m not there, I’m glad she takes honesty seriously. Even when we purposely raise our children to respect and honor God, it can be easy for them to be deceived or to fall to selfish desires or ambitions. When they do uphold the teachings of God and honor Him and His authority, we reap the beautiful benefits. Genesis 3:1-13 says, “Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said to the woman, “Has God indeed said, ‘You shall not eat of every tree of the garden?” “And the woman said to the serpent, “We may eat the fruit of the trees of the garden; but of the fruit of the tree, which is in the midst of the garden, God has said, ‘You shall not eat it, nor shall you touch it, lest you die.’ “Then the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die. For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” “So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate. She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves coverings.” “And they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden.” “Then the Lord God called to Adam and said to him, “Where are you?” “So he said, “I heard Your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; and I hid myself.” “And He said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree of which I commanded you that you should not eat?” “Then the man said, “The woman whom You gave to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I ate.” “And the Lord God said to the woman, “What is this you have done ?” “The woman said, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate.” It is vitally important for parents to understand that God’s truths must be clearly and repeatedly taught if we desire our children to easily recognize the lies of this fallen world. What we teach our children about truth through God’s eyes and how we live His truths become godly examples that will affect them and future generations. Teaching the book of Genesis is a beautiful lesson in God’s truths. What they learn through Genesis will be the foundation for multiple life issues as they mature and grow. Proverbs is another book filled with truth and wisdom. Teaching your child the truths of God’s Word will always be more important than anything else you could teach them. Proverbs 4:23 says, “Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life .” Humans carry such selfish desires. It’s easy for us to get caught up in what we want or think we need, and fall short of what God’s best is for us and our family. Pride Arrogance Selfishness Jealousy Deceit Unforgiveness Anger Bitterness So many ungodly characteristics easily arise from actions and thoughts. Without a godly and God-filled home to learn Biblical truths, our children can easily fall victim to fleshly desires, Satan, peers and culture, and the alluring lies of this world. God’s Word clearly instructs us on how to react to the ways of this world. Colossians 3:5-10 says, “Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator .” In the book of Ephesians, we learn the learn that God has again gone before us to provide exactly what we need to allow Him to fight worldly and spiritual battles in our place. Teach your child to rely on the armor of God and to allow Him to fight and protect your child through a lifetime of battles. When I say allow, I don’t mean that we hold power over God, but that we humbly submit to Him. Ephesians 6:10-17 says, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God .” God enables us to fight against sin through His Word and the tools found in Ephesians, but we also have another weapon ready in our arsenal from God. Our identity. Identity formed and established through Jesus Christ is a powerful, effective weapon that releases your child from various strongholds. Colossians 3:1-3 says, “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” Purposely building character and identity through relationship with Christ allows your child to stand on a firm foundation that cannot be shaken. God’s truth will be more clearly seen and used for decisions, relationships, and molding character and integrity because your child’s identity will be one with Christ and the way God sees him or her. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 says, “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. ” Your child must learn, understand, and believe that God’s Word is the Authority of Truth. His holy Word is the ultimate Truth that can break and demolish strongholds and falsehoods. The Bible calls and equips believers to attack lies with the Truth of God by reading, believing, and utilizing His Word, holy power, and authority. For example, Paul was merely a man, flesh like you and me. Yet, what made Paul strong was that he understood and taught that human brilliance, worldly wisdom, and wits were powerless against the evil and darkness of this world. He relied on the Word and Holy Spirit to guide and guard His mind and heart. Paul relied on those Sources to direct how he lived and taught. He never wavered from what God spoke through the Word and Spirit. None of us can live in freedom or peace through our human strength or wisdom. How frail and weak we are! How easily deceived! We also can’t deepen our walk with God by fighting with our flesh. We cannot defeat this world or the strongholds within it unless we use the Word of God and His truth to attack or stand against ungodly falsehoods. It is His strength; not our own. That is what our children must witness us doing and hear us teach. 1 Corinthians 3:20 says, “And again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile .” It is God’s wisdom and Word that saves you, your children, and future generations. Your job as a believer and parent is to strengthen your belief, trust, and obedience in the Lord and mentor the way to Him for your children with godly purpose and holy-inspired direction. Your job is to combat the lies of this world with the truth of God’s Word and to show your children how to do the same. Your child will never recognize the lies of this world unless they are taught the truths of God and taught to build godly identity through Christ. John 17:17 says, “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” Ephesians 6:17 says, “Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God .” What are the most effective ways to equip your child to stand against sin in an ungodly world? 1. Stay away from sin. When you live a life devoted to pleasing God and strive not to sin against Him as you mirror Christ to your children, you become the most effective witness. 2. Teach your child the importance of the power of God’s holy Word to equip and empower them against sin. Do this through your own life examples and look for ways to highlight God working in the lives of your children and others. 3. Show your child how to use God’s armory against sin and the power of darkness. Teach them what God’s Word instructs and let them witness you using God’s armor daily. 4. Encourage and empower your child to stand in identity through Christ. From the earliest times you have your child, begin speaking Truth into their life and spirit. 5. Teach them godly characteristics, praise those characteristics, such as honesty and integrity when you see them in your child, and mentor those to them. Praise your kids when they are truthful, and notice when they are tempted (but don’t follow that temptation). Show/Tell your children when opportunities arise for honesty (such as when you’re not charged for an item at the store, and your tell the cashier, etc.). Make it clear to your children that you don’t make these types of choices to live with these values because you are a good person or that they are good, it is because you are living the values that are pleasing to God and instructed in His Word. Let them learn that when you love and honor God, you live in ways that are pleasing because your actions reflect on Him. Just as some families teach their children not to soil the family name, it is far more important to understand and honor that our actions and reactions reflect Christ to a watching world that may not yet know Him. 6. Prayer – Seek specific Scriptures you can use as powerful prayers to strengthen and protect your children from sin. Hebrews 4:12-13 says, “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account .” Dear Heavenly Father how blessed we are for Your love and care for us. Even before we were Yours through the live-saving power of Christ, You suffered for us. We are so far from You, yet you call us Yours and love with an everlasting love. You have done everything You can to show us that love and to create a way for us to come to You and live with You in eternity. How carelessly we live our days without knowing even the smallest of sins we hold against You. We are so sorry for the pain we cause and pray that You will enable us to stand in our identity through Christ before You and raise the children you entrusted to us in ways that please and delight You. Help us not to sin against You and not to ignorantly cause our children to sin. Enable us to guide and direct our children with Your insight and wisdom. Help us place them on Your pure path and may You keep them there until they meet You in eternity. Father, thank you for your Son and thank you for loving us before we even came to You. Thank you that as we raise our children to love, honor, and obey You we see beautifully joyful blessings through watching them serve You. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Supporting and encouraging mothers to rest in Christ and pursue a holy relationship with Him so they purposely raise set-apart children is the cry of my heart. I believe godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset a mother carries. That’s why I’ve created the Set-Apart Collective. Have you decided peers and culture won’t be the main influence over your child? Would you like to parent to prepare your child for eternity with Christ, not to repair a relationship? In the Set-Apart Collective, you will deepen your walk with Christ, learn a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family. The Set-Apart Collective wait list is open now. The first group of women is currently growing together. Please send me an email at info@terrihitt.com to let me know you’d like to receive information. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. If you connected in some way with this episode, would you please rate and review the podcast on Apple or Spotify? It only takes a minute or so and makes a big difference in people finding the podcast. You and I know that the best reviews are by word of mouth, so would you please choose a friend to recommend the show to? Let them know that the podcast is found at terrihitt.com, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. Imagine the change we will see in the way mothers parent for Christ if they learn to be intentional, too. Remember, if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will likely sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection. 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< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast - Episode 087 - Confident Parenting through God's Strength Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 087 – Confident Parenting through God’s Strength Thank you for taking time to share your day with me. I pray this podcast deepens your walk with Jesus and your children. When you see mothers who’ve raised children who love and follow the Lord do you ever wonder if they have some special secret? Maybe they were just born privileged. Or do you think their faith must be stronger than yours? I can easily remember being a young mother with little confidence and no knowledge of the Lord. How I’ve changed. Or better yet, how I have been changed. All because of my relationship with Jesus. It’s true that the older I’ve become, the more introspective I am. That says a lot, because I’ve always been a deep thinker. What is most important to me, and something I try not to take for granted, is that because I am now a follower of Christ, my thoughts are more on Him and less on self. My confidence comes from Him , not others, my thoughts, feelings, emotions, or past experiences. This is the kind of confidence I desire every woman, every mother to carry with strength and assurance that only comes through a growing walk with Jesus. Titus 2:3-6 speaks to what presses on my heart and where He has led me. The verses say, “Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God. ” These verses clearly instruct mature believers in the ways we must encourage and help younger believers. By being lovingly mentored in godly words and lifestyles, younger generations of followers of Christ will learn how to live for Him and continue to pass Christlike living and fellowship to the next generation. The next generation starts with your children. The next generation can confidently be raised for the Lord if you submit to and trust Him to guide and guard you and your family. Because of Christ, I receive such joy by watching my children grow in wisdom of the Lord. I’m thankful for the walk they have with Christ, especially the relationship my daughters have at their young age. I can’t take credit for the work God has done, and continues to do in their hearts, but I have been purposed in making Him known to them. But it hasn’t always been my main goal. When I parented my first two I came to know Jesus later and it took time for me to be properly submitted to Him and discipled for Him. Mothers, as you intentionally mature your relationship with Jesus, you become the set-apart woman He intends for you to be. You are able to show Jesus to those in your sphere of influence, and that includes your husband and children. When you do so, you are deciding to live in humble obedience and love for God. Think of how important your decision is for your children and family. As you mature your personal walk with Christ, you are able to better showcase His works within you. The Bible tells us that when the Holy Spirit lives inside believers, we receive His fruits of the Spirit. Joy is one of the characteristics we receive. I receive such joy in working with younger mothers and equipping them in their walk with Jesus and showing them how to make Him known to their children. What a beautiful gift that we receive those fruits of the Spirit in so many ways and can help others rest in and follow Jesus. If you are a believing parent, God is relying on you to complete the holy assignment of parenting for Him. I shared the verses from Titus 2 at the beginning of this podcast, because we are not able to complete the instructions given without the power of Christ alive within us. Without submitting to the Holy Spirit’s promptings and guidance within, you and I are unable to live or parent for Christ. Do you take notice of how many miraculous ways your life has changed since you became a follower of Christ? One of those is gaining a new identity. As you accept and build your new identity in Christ, you are rebuilding a lifetime of beliefs, desires, and learned habits in the truth of God and what He says about you as a woman. Also, in what He says about you as a mother. You can’t parent godly children without submitting to the Holy Spirit inside you. The absolute best day in your life as a believer in Christ should be the day you humbly submit your life to Him. While filled with many emotions and feelings in that moment, you probably wondered what the rest of your life would be like with Jesus at your side. However, one of the best revelations or lessons a follower of Christ can realize is that Jesus does not ever belong by your side . The Lord of All, Prince of Peace, Author and Perfecter of our Faith, and the Alpha and Omega holds out His strong and capable hands, ready for you to rest in His arms . This means He isn’t behind or beside you, but should be the One carrying and sustaining you through every disturbance, disruption, and delight. One of the most basic, but challenging questions in the personal life of a believer is this: I have chosen to trust Jesus for eternity, but am I trusting Him for every moment? Are you trusting God to show you how to raise the children He has entrusted to you? I believe that if we examine the story shared about Peter in Matthew 14, we learn valuable insight. Matthew 14:22-33 says, “Immediately He made the disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowds. And after He had dismissed the crowds, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. When evening came, He was there alone, but the boat by this time was a long way from the land, beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them. And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea. But when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” and they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” And Peter answered Him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out His hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God .” What a decision Peter made! He chose to step out of the boat and into the choppy, stormy waters to walk toward Jesus. While His eyes and mind were centered on Jesus, Peter actually walked on the water! When his focus slipped away from Christ and fell to self and surroundings, Peter experienced fear, panic, and difficulties. Jesus had not moved. Christ had not changed. Jesus remained centered on Peter and ready to care for him. Peter’s mind moved away from Jesus and he began to sink. Your focus determines faith or fear . Is your parenting style focused on Self or Savior ? While it is easy to blame Peter and belittle his faith, he was willing to be the one who walked toward Jesus. Peter was willing to leave the other disciples, leave what he knew, and venture alone into the turbulent waters toward Jesus. The other men remained unchanged and unmoving inside the boat while Peter took the risk of trusting Christ. Consider these 4 questions: Why did the others remain in the boat? Why didn’t they step out in faith with Peter? Why is it so difficult to keep mind, heart, and focus on Christ? Why do people struggle to trust God through occasions and stages of life? There are actually multiple reasons. Let’s look at what the most common causes are and how we can turn to Scripture to combat them. 1. Trust – It can be difficult to trust or believe in what we cannot see. But Scripture gives clear instructions. God’s Word is inerrant; it is trustworthy. The Holy Word offers hope and assurance. Hebrews 11:1 says, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen .” John 20:29 says, “Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed .” Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” In what ways are you not trusting God in your life? How does that translate in your parenting? 2. Worry/Anxiety – It’s easy to imagine what might happen and allow our thoughts to spiral out of control with anxiety or worry. God offers a far better way. Romans 12:2 says, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God .” Matthew 19:26 says, “But Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible .” Isaiah 41:10 says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand .” 1 Peter 5:7 says, “Casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you .” Matthew 6:31-34 says, “Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble .” You have a choice. Release worry by releasing control to God or hold onto worry and let it drain your faith and energy. Which do you want to model for your children? 3. Control – We don’t want to relinquish our perceived control. Have you learned yet that control is an illusion? No one has control. No matter how perfect you may try to be or how hard you work, you will never have complete or lasting control. How much easier it is to realize God’s authority and submit to Him. Matthew 11:28 says, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. ” Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God .” Psalm 138:8 says, “The LORD will fulfill His purpose for me; your steadfast love, O LORD, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of Your hands .” What areas of your life do you still grasp too tightly to release to God? How can you let go so that you can teach your children to rely on God? 4. Doubt – When things don’t go the way we desire or think they should or if we begin to wonder why there is hardship and evil in the world, doubt can creep in. Hebrew 11:1 says, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen .” James 1:6 says, “But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind .” Matthew 6:30 says, “But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith ?” Where has God worked in your life to show you that He is present? Do you still doubt? What can you do to ensure that your children believe with a heart and mind that will never stray from believing in and following the Lord? 5. Sinfulness – I also like to call this selfishness. When we don’t want to give up sin, we are choosing self over Christ. We’re also choosing self over those we love or are in our life. Personal sin always affects those who love us, especially your spouse or children. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 says, “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body .” 1 John 1:8 says, “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us .” Romans 7:22-23 says, “For I delight in the law of God, in my inner being, but I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members .” Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you .” What areas of your life are selfish? Where are you not releasing sin? How can you ask God to carry you and carve a new heart and mindset that releases self and chooses the Savior? How do you plan to model that lifestyle for your children? 6. Arrogance/Pride – Pride rears up in each of us through different ways. Whether it be entitlement, perfectionism, bragging, when we think we’re superior to someone, deserve something more than another, or should be before another, the root of each thought ties back to arrogance or pride. Isaiah 2:12 says, “For the LORD of hosts has a day against all that is proud and lofty, against all that is lifted up—and it shall be brought low .” James 4:6 says, “But He gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble .” James 4:10 says, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you .” Philippians 2:3 says, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves .” Proverbs 11:2 says, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.” Proverbs 16:5 says, “Everyone who is arrogant in heart is an abomination to the LORD; be assured, he will not go unpunished .” It’s so humbling just to read the verses God has given us about humility. How will you teach your children to be humble before the Lord and others? How will you model that fort hem? 7. Unworthiness – As a believer in Christ, you have been bought with a price. The life of Jesus was exchanged so you could begin to understand your great worth to God. Isaiah 43:18 says, “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old .” Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope .” Psalm 56:8 says, “Record my misery; list my tears on your scroll — are they not in Your record ?” Psalm 139:14 says, “I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are Your works; my soul knows it very well .” Matthew 6:26 says, “Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they ?” Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them .” How will you teach your children their worthiness and identity through Christ? It starts when you realize your confidence in who you are through Him. 8. Fear – When fear creeps in, it is because you have taken your mind and eyes off of God and centered them on self or surroundings. Every time I have felt fear even begin to touch me I stop and focus on Jesus (and in my mind I actually picture blinders on my face that force my vision upwards on God). As I rest in His presence and pray to Him about the situation I am fearing, He takes the burden and calms any fears. It is said that God leaves the message “Do not fear” 365 times in the Bible. I'm not sure whether that is an accurate count, but I trust that the Lord gives us the command for daily use because He knows our thoughts can easily be distracted. He knows how easily we move from His sovereign holiness and perfect provision and protection. Psalm 34:4 says, “I sought the LORD, and He answered me and delivered me from all my fears.” Psalm 94:19 says, “When the cares of my heart are many, Your consolations cheer my soul.” Psalm 115:11 says, “You who fear the LORD, trust in the LORD! He is their help and their shield.” Psalm 118:6 says, “The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me ?” Matthew 6:34 says, “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble .” John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid .” Do you want your child to live with fear or faith? Show them the example they need to grasp the hope and peace that is in Christ. Help them find faith that carries them past fear while they are young. 9. Faith – Perhaps your belief doesn’t feel real or big enough. Maybe difficult times in the past, unanswered prayers, or present hardships cause you to feel like God has forsaken you or that He isn’t real. Each of the points we discussed can arguably return back to the thought of faith that is too little. But remember, God’s Word tells us all we need is a faith the size of a mustard seed. Tend to that seed so it will mature and be rooted in God’s truth, then let it grow and mature through Christ. Romans 5:3-5 says, “Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us .” James 1:2-4 says, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing .” Romans 8:18 says, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us .” You know how easy it can be to allow self or situations to distract you and move your eyes off Christ. Being aware of this offers opportunity to purposely prepare to be ahead of your next season of trials. Intentionally living in ways that set you up to trust God gives assurance that your focus will not be easily swayed in this moment or tomorrow. How can you live in ways that set you up to live and parent with eternal perspective? How will you teach your children to trust God for each day, as well as for eternity? Let’s look at 7 ways: 1. Know Jesus through a personal relationship. 2. Read and study God’s word together. 3. Prayer – speak to God and listen for God and pray with your children. 4. Pursue close relationship with God daily. Seek Him in all the minute happenings and large events. 5. Ask God to transform your life. 6. Use everyday moments to make God known to your children. Inhale and exhale Him with love and clarity. 7. Take your thoughts captive for Christ and see the difference He makes to a surrendered soul. If you look at the transcript from this episode after listening, you’ll be able to read the Scriptures referenced and refer to the questions I asked throughout this episode. Look back at them and ponder the following questions to help you grow in relationship with and confidence in the Lord in your personal and parenting life. 1. What does this verse promise? 2. What does this verse command? 3. Where do I need to apply this in my life and in the way I parent? Dear Heavenly Father, How great You are! You are so far above us, yet remain within us through Jesus. Thank you for all you have given us and still desire to provide for us. Help us to be the women You call us to be. Help us to be the mothers you have designed us to become. Please help our children to follow Jesus and clearly show Him to the next generation. May it be that no generation after us shall stray from you because we raise our children in Your wisdom and goodness. Thank you for giving us Your Son and Your holy Word as a guide and a shield. We ask these things in the precious name of Christ. Amen. If you’re a working mom inside or outside the home and need an easy way to begin teaching your babies, toddlers, or preschoolers about Jesus, send me an email at info@terrihitt.com . I’m currently working on a devotional to bring your children to the feet of Jesus early. Let me know you’re interested, and I’ll let you know how to receive a copy. Also, you may have heard me talk about the Set-Apart Collective often in this podcast. Why do I share it so often? I know the program works. Through 6 weeks of one-on-one and group coaching, along with Scripturally-based materials I provide, you will complete 8 steps that include the following: Seek God First, Establish Identity, Teach Truth, A Set-Apart Woman, Parent Set-Apart Kids, Arm for Battle, Relationships, and Training. What you learn and solidify in your personal life will directly affect the way you serve God and parent for Him. It will help you construct godly confidence and esteem through Christ in your children. If you’re ready to invest in the future of your children, contact me at info@terrihitt.com for more details or visit terrihitt.com/setapart. Because you are a podcast listener, let me know you heard about the special price I’m offering you. I seriously want you to experience results and live a set-apart life with a set-apart family. Instead of a $997 value, I’ll give you a discount code that enables you to pay only $247. If you are serious about parenting with eternal perspective and raising children to chase Christ over culture, I’m making this very affordable and easy to do. Why? Because supporting and encouraging mothers to rest in Christ and pursue a holy relationship with Him so they purposely raise set-apart children is the cry of my heart. Godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset a mother carries. That’s why I’ve created the Set-Apart Collective. If you’ve decided peers and culture won’t be the main influence over your child and you desire to parent to prepare your child for eternity with Christ, the Set-Apart Collective, will deepen your walk with Christ. You’ll learn a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family. The Set-Apart Collective is open now. Please send me an email at info@terrihitt.com to let me know you’d like to receive information or look online at terrihitt.com/setapart. We can also set up a 15 minute call to chat about details. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. If you connected in some way with this episode, would you please rate and review the podcast on Apple or Spotify? It only takes a minute or so and makes a big difference in people finding the podcast. You and I know that the best reviews are by word of mouth, so would you please choose a friend to recommend the show to? Let them know that the podcast is found at terrihitt.com, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. Imagine the change we will see in the way mothers parent for Christ if they learn to be intentional, too. Remember, if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will likely sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #077 – Easing Heartache Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Matthew 5:4 says, “Blessed are those mourning, for they will be comforted.” June 18th and June 21st were beyond difficult days in our family. Grief hit our home and the impact was hard. Before I married a dog-loving man I never would have imagined the depth of relationship a person could have with a household pet. My parents never allowed us to have an inside dog as I was growing up, and an outside dog, although still cared for, is certainly not the same as a loving furry family member who knows everything about you, follows you everywhere inside the house, and adores you despite whether you're made-up or in need of a bath. Your schedule is known and if you deviate in any way, they may offer a question with a slight tilt of their head, but all-in-all, accept the change as long as you are still with them and they have the honor of remaining in your presence. Since marrying a man who has always had to have a pet in our house, I have slowly become accustomed to an ever-present dog. While we have had absolutely amazing pets over the years, and some that took a giant piece of my heart with them after they passed, I have never been as affected by the death of a pet as I was last month. On June 18th we lost Max, our ten year old, exquisitely handsome Golden Retriever. While Max truly loved every family member deeply, he was the first family dog that chose me as his favorite. He was a mama's boy to the core. Whenever I petted him, he purred his favor and satisfaction like a cat and slapped me with his clumsy giant paws, proving his devotion as he tagged me as his. Max followed me everywhere, becoming my four-legged shadow who was always up in an instant and ready to go whenever and wherever I was headed. Max often carried a football around the house. Never mind that he could not catch! Whatever we tossed his way would land awkwardly on the floor beside or behind our boy, but rarely in his mouth. He was my baby, my friend, my warm cuddle-buddy, and my blessing, for time with him always brought a smile and warmth to my heart. On June 21st, a few days after losing Max, we lost his sister, our thirteen year old Miniature Schnauzer, Misty. Just as Max loved everyone, but chose one favorite to shadow, Misty loved each of us well, yet claimed my husband as her special family member. We used to laugh at the adoration in her eyes whenever she looked at him. We called Misty our "little girl," because she always seemed to envy Marissa as they grew up together. It seemed she wanted to be a person, not a canine, and the depth of desire and love in her eyes for all of us seemed to confirm our thoughts. Misty loved music and whenever we would sing to her, she would stop whatever she was doing and come to sit in front of us so that we would continue a special personal concert designed for her. Our "little girl" also grew up attending family worship and prayer time with us, and she and Marissa used to race each other for a seat next to me when they were younger. In her mature years, Misty still came to school with us and almost never missed Bible or prayer time. My youngest, Brooklyn loved feeding and brushing the dogs and spending quiet time with them as she slept near both of them. Marissa and I loved the way Misty always raced upstairs when she knew I was headed to Marissa's room to do something with her. Misty knew she would get to sit with us and receive a special time of cuddles and hugs that Max would never know about. After losing Max, we spent three days trying to save Misty, gently feeding her baby food from our fingertips, gently wrapping cool washcloths on her paws in an attempt to reduce her fever, and carrying her outside to enjoy the breezy sunshine weather when she could no longer walk. I never imagined we would lose both of our precious babies within days of each other. The emergency veterinarian told us it was a rarity to have a family come in with two critically ill dogs at the same time. We aren't sure what happened. Suddenly both of our furry family members became very sick. Misty had declined the previous summer and after we urgently prayed for a miracle for her health last year, we received one. Misty had seemed healthier, stronger, and going on regular walks with Marissa daily. Just days after Max suddenly got sick, she did as well. Our regular vet could not figure out what was going on and referred us to the emergency clinic. Without hospitalizing both of them and spending what could amount to ten thousand dollars for the next few days (on top of what we had already spent), neither of our babies was going to make it. In the end, the vets believed that Max's kidneys had failed and Misty had underlying cancer, perhaps in her pancreas. At least they lived without symptoms until the very end, and even then, neither of them complained. As we tried to nurse both of them ourselves, praying for improvement, they loved and trusted us with their usual tenderness. love, and compassion. I will never find animals quite like them this side of heaven, where I pray I meet with them again. God amazes me that He crafted these sweet babies, knowing they would be ours, and instilling just what I needed, we each needed, in both of them. Pure love, gentleness, acceptance, and peace emanated from them with ease, reminding me daily of what the Father desires from each of us. Without them, I also think of the Father's gentle spirit when He created them and it allows me to grieve with hope that I will see them in eternity. Although animals do not have a soul that can choose to accept Christ as their Savior, and nothing biblically proves that animals will be in heaven, I pray that because Adam and Eve were stewards over animals in the beginning, that God will allow the beautiful four-legged family members we loved to have a final resting place with Him for eternity. Grief is tricky, but also a beautiful mechanism of the love that God must have for us. For if I, a mere sinful human, can love with an intensity that allows me to deeply miss the animals I called a part of my family, imagine the extreme and passionate love God holds for each of us, His creation made with a purpose. As we said goodbye to our beloved pets, I told the emergency vet that I had lost a daughter and many close family members, and that loss was a million times worse, yet the pain of losing my precious pets was still extremely painful. I carry the sweet memories made with them very close, thinking of their precious faces often throughout each day. I feel emptiness in my schedule because they are not here to make me laugh, sing, play hide and seek, or marvel at the way they join every activity with excitement and love simply because we are there with them. The way we each are to rejoice in our time spent with the Lord. It’s okay to take life slower for as long as I need to and I should not feel guilty because I am grieving pets. If you are not a dog or pet lover, I understand. I honestly thought that I wouldn’t want any more pets after these were gone. I failed to understand the depth of the devotion I had for them. Although I am admittedly not a puppy person, it’s like having a newborn in the house, and that means a lot of work. Yet, I truly and deeply loved our dogs. They perfectly fit into each day and situation, even with quirky habits that made them even more a part of the family. Losing pets also proves that pain is pain. Loss is loss. Who understands the depth? Jesus. Remember John 11:35? “Jesus wept.” I remember the first days after losing my daughter. The depth of anguish was chasm-sized, relentless, and I had to force myself to breathe through the crushing pain weighing on my chest. I didn't want to cry in front of others because it felt too personal and I also wasn't sure that I could stop the tears. I wanted to grieve in my own way, plus I didn’t want to upset my four year old daughter or leave her burdened with a mother who couldn’t care for her. So I grieved in private times and allowed God to offer the peace only He can. But the years of loss after her, filled with many others I loved, have made me ultra-tender to grief. Also knowing that I have a young daughter who could experience decline at any time, and seeing the losses of so many parents I know who have children with similar conditions has marked my spirit in a way that has left me more vulnerable to grief. I've cried or thought of them daily since my sweet, furry companions have been gone and I feel like they must have felt when they used to lay on the floor, with underbellies exposed. But I don't care. God offers me peace and calm when I ask, just like with the losses before. He is ever-present and I feel Him near. He tells me that He holds my tears and each one is recorded. He understands as no one else can. What is gone had been a gift from Him and the preciousness is a reminder of each loved one I have been with, yet lost, and those I still hold and treasure. Any or all of them could be gone in an instant; another reminder that living with eternal perspective is the only way to fully live in this world. About two weeks before Max got sick, I remember hearing a voice in my spirit one day that concerned me. It said, "Max will be attacked." Just as my Heavenly Father sent me a warning twenty-four hours before I lost my first child, I think God must have sent me a sign to trust Him again. He always watches over us in ways unique to each of us, and for the purposes He intends. I am glad He prepared me in this way. Losing both of our beloved and precious furry family members at once was truly very difficult. I feel like our culture sometimes dismisses the loss of pets as insignificant, but we the ties and bonds we have with our pets can be as strong and intense as some we have with humans. Our pets trust us implicitly, they love unconditionally, and spend almost every moment with us. The loss of their presence leaves a giant hole in our daily routines and lifestyle, as well as our ability to laugh and love in the same way we previously experienced. Yet, it makes everything sweeter still. One of the gifts of God is the ability to continue to peel away layer after layer of humanity and heal that exposed area with not new flesh, but the ability to hold and feel life more like He does and how He desires – with our mind and heart set for Him. Eccesiastes 1:14 says, “I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind.” Love trumps possessions or power. In the Bible, even Solomon’s special wisdom granted by God did not provide meaning that satisfied his soul. God continues to burden my heart with an ache that nothing in this world can satisfy. I truly desire for everyone to know Him and the peace that God alone brings us through a maturing relationship with Christ. My heart yearns for each of us to make time to rest in Him. Change your schedule. Slow your life. Make time to not only read the word, but digest it. Ponder God’s words and ways. Apply His teachings, promises, and love to your life and those around you. Do not harbor bitterness or anger, jealousy or hatred, unforgiveness or sadness. Truly examine your heart and lay it before God so that He can heal the areas you need. Even when we already feel those areas have been released to Him, God and His words have mighty power that is living and active. Just as Hebrews 4:12 says, “Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Cling ever tighter to Jesus, beginning now. Although I don’t enjoy the hurts of this world, God never fails to be the steadiness that is exactly what I need and He draws me ever nearer through all that occurs. May it always be so, and true for each one of us. Father God, may we allow You to examine our thoughts and heart. We need You so much more than we know. Despite heartache and difficulty in this world, we become closer to You when we allow troubles and disappointment to draw us ever nearer. The only way we can do that is to be building a relationship with You consistently as one lays a firm foundation on solid ground so that we are ready before the storm hits. Thank you for being calm, peace, and steadiness that our minds can grasp, yet also so much more that we can only begin to fathom through the hope and trust You leave us in Jesus. You are all we need, dear Father. Thank you. In Your precious name we pray. Amen. This week I pray you find new ways to rest in Him and cause yourself to cling to Him in deeper ways that test your faith and understanding. Allow Him to bring you to a new level of trust and abandonment of self. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture as You rely on God to direct your steps. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to the Lord and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 077 - Easing Heartache Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #077 – Easing Heartache Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. Matthew 5:4 says, “Blessed are those mourning, for they will be comforted.” June 18th and June 21st were beyond difficult days in our family. Grief hit our home and the impact was hard. Before I married a dog-loving man I never would have imagined the depth of relationship a person could have with a household pet. My parents never allowed us to have an inside dog as I was growing up, and an outside dog, although still cared for, is certainly not the same as a loving furry family member who knows everything about you, follows you everywhere inside the house, and adores you despite whether you're made-up or in need of a bath. Your schedule is known and if you deviate in any way, they may offer a question with a slight tilt of their head, but all-in-all, accept the change as long as you are still with them and they have the honor of remaining in your presence. Since marrying a man who has always had to have a pet in our house, I have slowly become accustomed to an ever-present dog. While we have had absolutely amazing pets over the years, and some that took a giant piece of my heart with them after they passed, I have never been as affected by the death of a pet as I was last month. On June 18th we lost Max, our ten year old, exquisitely handsome Golden Retriever. While Max truly loved every family member deeply, he was the first family dog that chose me as his favorite. He was a mama's boy to the core. Whenever I petted him, he purred his favor and satisfaction like a cat and slapped me with his clumsy giant paws, proving his devotion as he tagged me as his. Max followed me everywhere, becoming my four-legged shadow who was always up in an instant and ready to go whenever and wherever I was headed. Max often carried a football around the house. Never mind that he could not catch! Whatever we tossed his way would land awkwardly on the floor beside or behind our boy, but rarely in his mouth. He was my baby, my friend, my warm cuddle-buddy, and my blessing, for time with him always brought a smile and warmth to my heart. On June 21st, a few days after losing Max, we lost his sister, our thirteen year old Miniature Schnauzer, Misty. Just as Max loved everyone, but chose one favorite to shadow, Misty loved each of us well, yet claimed my husband as her special family member. We used to laugh at the adoration in her eyes whenever she looked at him. We called Misty our "little girl," because she always seemed to envy Marissa as they grew up together. It seemed she wanted to be a person, not a canine, and the depth of desire and love in her eyes for all of us seemed to confirm our thoughts. Misty loved music and whenever we would sing to her, she would stop whatever she was doing and come to sit in front of us so that we would continue a special personal concert designed for her. Our "little girl" also grew up attending family worship and prayer time with us, and she and Marissa used to race each other for a seat next to me when they were younger. In her mature years, Misty still came to school with us and almost never missed Bible or prayer time. My youngest, Brooklyn loved feeding and brushing the dogs and spending quiet time with them as she slept near both of them. Marissa and I loved the way Misty always raced upstairs when she knew I was headed to Marissa's room to do something with her. Misty knew she would get to sit with us and receive a special time of cuddles and hugs that Max would never know about. After losing Max, we spent three days trying to save Misty, gently feeding her baby food from our fingertips, gently wrapping cool washcloths on her paws in an attempt to reduce her fever, and carrying her outside to enjoy the breezy sunshine weather when she could no longer walk. I never imagined we would lose both of our precious babies within days of each other. The emergency veterinarian told us it was a rarity to have a family come in with two critically ill dogs at the same time. We aren't sure what happened. Suddenly both of our furry family members became very sick. Misty had declined the previous summer and after we urgently prayed for a miracle for her health last year, we received one. Misty had seemed healthier, stronger, and going on regular walks with Marissa daily. Just days after Max suddenly got sick, she did as well. Our regular vet could not figure out what was going on and referred us to the emergency clinic. Without hospitalizing both of them and spending what could amount to ten thousand dollars for the next few days (on top of what we had already spent), neither of our babies was going to make it. In the end, the vets believed that Max's kidneys had failed and Misty had underlying cancer, perhaps in her pancreas. At least they lived without symptoms until the very end, and even then, neither of them complained. As we tried to nurse both of them ourselves, praying for improvement, they loved and trusted us with their usual tenderness. love, and compassion. I will never find animals quite like them this side of heaven, where I pray I meet with them again. God amazes me that He crafted these sweet babies, knowing they would be ours, and instilling just what I needed, we each needed, in both of them. Pure love, gentleness, acceptance, and peace emanated from them with ease, reminding me daily of what the Father desires from each of us. Without them, I also think of the Father's gentle spirit when He created them and it allows me to grieve with hope that I will see them in eternity. Although animals do not have a soul that can choose to accept Christ as their Savior, and nothing biblically proves that animals will be in heaven, I pray that because Adam and Eve were stewards over animals in the beginning, that God will allow the beautiful four-legged family members we loved to have a final resting place with Him for eternity. Grief is tricky, but also a beautiful mechanism of the love that God must have for us. For if I, a mere sinful human, can love with an intensity that allows me to deeply miss the animals I called a part of my family, imagine the extreme and passionate love God holds for each of us, His creation made with a purpose. As we said goodbye to our beloved pets, I told the emergency vet that I had lost a daughter and many close family members, and that loss was a million times worse, yet the pain of losing my precious pets was still extremely painful. I carry the sweet memories made with them very close, thinking of their precious faces often throughout each day. I feel emptiness in my schedule because they are not here to make me laugh, sing, play hide and seek, or marvel at the way they join every activity with excitement and love simply because we are there with them. The way we each are to rejoice in our time spent with the Lord. It’s okay to take life slower for as long as I need to and I should not feel guilty because I am grieving pets. If you are not a dog or pet lover, I understand. I honestly thought that I wouldn’t want any more pets after these were gone. I failed to understand the depth of the devotion I had for them. Although I am admittedly not a puppy person, it’s like having a newborn in the house, and that means a lot of work. Yet, I truly and deeply loved our dogs. They perfectly fit into each day and situation, even with quirky habits that made them even more a part of the family. Losing pets also proves that pain is pain. Loss is loss. Who understands the depth? Jesus. Remember John 11:35? “Jesus wept.” I remember the first days after losing my daughter. The depth of anguish was chasm-sized, relentless, and I had to force myself to breathe through the crushing pain weighing on my chest. I didn't want to cry in front of others because it felt too personal and I also wasn't sure that I could stop the tears. I wanted to grieve in my own way, plus I didn’t want to upset my four year old daughter or leave her burdened with a mother who couldn’t care for her. So I grieved in private times and allowed God to offer the peace only He can. But the years of loss after her, filled with many others I loved, have made me ultra-tender to grief. Also knowing that I have a young daughter who could experience decline at any time, and seeing the losses of so many parents I know who have children with similar conditions has marked my spirit in a way that has left me more vulnerable to grief. I've cried or thought of them daily since my sweet, furry companions have been gone and I feel like they must have felt when they used to lay on the floor, with underbellies exposed. But I don't care. God offers me peace and calm when I ask, just like with the losses before. He is ever-present and I feel Him near. He tells me that He holds my tears and each one is recorded. He understands as no one else can. What is gone had been a gift from Him and the preciousness is a reminder of each loved one I have been with, yet lost, and those I still hold and treasure. Any or all of them could be gone in an instant; another reminder that living with eternal perspective is the only way to fully live in this world. About two weeks before Max got sick, I remember hearing a voice in my spirit one day that concerned me. It said, "Max will be attacked." Just as my Heavenly Father sent me a warning twenty-four hours before I lost my first child, I think God must have sent me a sign to trust Him again. He always watches over us in ways unique to each of us, and for the purposes He intends. I am glad He prepared me in this way. Losing both of our beloved and precious furry family members at once was truly very difficult. I feel like our culture sometimes dismisses the loss of pets as insignificant, but we the ties and bonds we have with our pets can be as strong and intense as some we have with humans. Our pets trust us implicitly, they love unconditionally, and spend almost every moment with us. The loss of their presence leaves a giant hole in our daily routines and lifestyle, as well as our ability to laugh and love in the same way we previously experienced. Yet, it makes everything sweeter still. One of the gifts of God is the ability to continue to peel away layer after layer of humanity and heal that exposed area with not new flesh, but the ability to hold and feel life more like He does and how He desires – with our mind and heart set for Him. Eccesiastes 1:14 says, “I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind.” Love trumps possessions or power. In the Bible, even Solomon’s special wisdom granted by God did not provide meaning that satisfied his soul. God continues to burden my heart with an ache that nothing in this world can satisfy. I truly desire for everyone to know Him and the peace that God alone brings us through a maturing relationship with Christ. My heart yearns for each of us to make time to rest in Him. Change your schedule. Slow your life. Make time to not only read the word, but digest it. Ponder God’s words and ways. Apply His teachings, promises, and love to your life and those around you. Do not harbor bitterness or anger, jealousy or hatred, unforgiveness or sadness. Truly examine your heart and lay it before God so that He can heal the areas you need. Even when we already feel those areas have been released to Him, God and His words have mighty power that is living and active. Just as Hebrews 4:12 says, “Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Cling ever tighter to Jesus, beginning now. Although I don’t enjoy the hurts of this world, God never fails to be the steadiness that is exactly what I need and He draws me ever nearer through all that occurs. May it always be so, and true for each one of us. Father God, may we allow You to examine our thoughts and heart. We need You so much more than we know. Despite heartache and difficulty in this world, we become closer to You when we allow troubles and disappointment to draw us ever nearer. The only way we can do that is to be building a relationship with You consistently as one lays a firm foundation on solid ground so that we are ready before the storm hits. Thank you for being calm, peace, and steadiness that our minds can grasp, yet also so much more that we can only begin to fathom through the hope and trust You leave us in Jesus. You are all we need, dear Father. Thank you. In Your precious name we pray. Amen. This week I pray you find new ways to rest in Him and cause yourself to cling to Him in deeper ways that test your faith and understanding. Allow Him to bring you to a new level of trust and abandonment of self. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture as You rely on God to direct your steps. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to the Lord and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #129 – Don’t Let Lies Keep You From Living in the Fullness of Christ Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. After high school, most of the kids I studied with headed off to college. Although my parents and I never formulated a plan for my continued education, my father always told me he desired me to become a lawyer. Being an attorney was not a profession I would enjoy at all! I wanted to be the next big journalist and interviewer – like Barbara Walters. I could envision myself interviewing everyone – from famous to infamous, especially those no one knew publicly, but were greatly loved by family and friends and influential or impactful in the world. Everyone has a history with intimate stories to tell that inspire and bond most of us together. Despite backgrounds or history, I like to think most of us are more alike than different. I wanted to explore and share those stories. During my senior year of high school, I did complete some advanced classes, which would have given me high school and college dual credit. Nowadays, families plan and prepare for university years in advance. Back then, my family and I didn’t know how to plan in advance, and we voiced no thoughts about where I would attend college or how I would pay to obtain a degree. When I discovered I was pregnant that summer, the news changed the direction of my life. No longer did I daydream about ivy league schools or how I’d amaze every Language Arts professor there with my prolific prose that would surely bring rave reviews and awards. Instead, I was faced with telling my parents they would soon be grandparents and I was terrified to share the news I could barely comprehend. I was about to be a mother. Before I told them, my steady boyfriend and I decided that since we were already planning to get married in the future, we would just do it sooner. Surprisingly, his parents were very supportive, which made it easier to gather the courage to tell my parents and begin to stand up for what I wanted. In the end, my husband and I hurried to marry before I started showing. He had turned 18 just a month and a half before we were married. I was 17 years old. Although I did not yet know Christ as my Savior, and I was not raised with discussions about the reasons a girl should wait to have sex after marriage, I felt a tremendous amount of guilt. I praise God that my husband and I truly loved each other, although at the time I wasn’t really sure what true and lasting love between a man and a woman was. Looking back on those early years of our marriage, I can now see ways I wish I would have been able to remove myself from the burden of guilt, but I didn’t know how without Christ. It wasn’t that I thought about my sin every day. In fact, I was usually happy. I loved my husband and our baby girl when she arrived. Yet, I didn’t live a peace that passes understanding and only comes through relationship with Jesus. As I think back on those years, I can easily remember the emotions and guilt I carried, thinking I wasn’t as good as those who graduated from college or those who remained sexually pure until after marriage. Happiness isn’t the same as deep and lasting joy. I wonder how much joy I cheated myself out of. What did I miss by allowing lingering thoughts far from what God would have me thinking? Are you missing out on a special life Christ has for you? After I found new life through submission to Jesus and a new life through relationship with Him, I was able to let go of guilt. Now I strive to walk with Him moment by moment. He is present to guide and guard and to protect and provide my every need. He is ready to do exactly the same for you as you are covered by His sacrifice and grace. Philippians 4:6-8 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Through Jesus, we can live with freedom from sin and guilt. Because of Christ, we can know and believe the truth, but how do we escape our past and stop living in the bondage of guilt from sin? I believe there are several feelings that cause us to miss out on the life we could experience through God. Please remember that feelings are important. God allowed us the capacity to feel emotions and thoughts. However, we don’t have to stay stuck in them. It’s important to look at the definition of the word “feelings” to allow us to move past remaining in our emotions. The word “feelings” is described as sentiments, attitude, and opinion or an emotional perception. Keep that definition in mind when you allow words to flow through your mind or define you or your life, so you can process and destroy those feelings that keep you from living in the fullness Christ intends. Let’s expose some of the “fears” feelings can craft within you: 1. Fear of inadequacy 2. Fear of failure 3. Fear of trust 4. Fear of disappointment 5. Fear of comparison 6. Fear of judgement 7. Fear of separation 8. Fear of hope 9. Fear of positivity God’s holy Scripture reveals truth to us that is often contrary to what we feel. 2 Corinthians 3:17 says, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” When we live by feelings, emotions, experiences, and comparisons, we rely on self. It’s similar to the Old Testament practice of keeping laws and traditions or relying on ceremonies. But those formalities pointed the way to Christ. They expose our need for Him. Because of Jesus and the Holy Spirit alive within believers, freedom from sin and guilt is provided freely. When we trust in Jesus, the burden of pleasing Him is removed. The inevitable guilt is gone. We will always fall short of perfection, but by trusting our lives to Jesus, we find that “where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” Christ enables us to look to Him and be renewed each moment. Ephesians 3:14-21 says, “For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of His glory He may grant you to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Let’s examine the difference in our life before and after Christ. In our life before Christ we are: 1. Against God 2. Dead in sin 3. World and flesh followers 4. Under bondage to Satan 5. Victims of our thoughts and feelings In our life after Christ, He lives within us, and we are: 1. God’s child 2. Reborn through Christ 3. Following Jesus’s truths 4. Freed through Jesus 5. Living in fullness and freedom The fullness of God can only be known through Christ. Through Jesus and the Holy Spirit alive within us, we are complete. God love reaches within every corner and crevice of our being. His love and forgiveness is deep and wide, immersing within where we think He won’t look or could love and extending far beyond us. It is high and low, reaching above and below what we deserve, expect, or imagine. As we live for Him daily, reliant on Him, we are transformed moment by moment. Scripture, faith, prayers, and obedience keep us connected to the Holy Spirit who fills every need we carry and allows us to experience freedom and fullness. Commit to believe, follow, and claim the Lord Jesus. Every single moment. Galatians 5:1says, “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” 1 Peter 2:16 says, “Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.” Dear Heavenly Father, Your steadfast love surrounds and abounds within us. We welcome You and the Holy Spirit to cover and complete us. According to Your promises, we have hope and peace in the fullness of life that comes from You. Help us keep Your laws and obey Your truths and purpose for us because we live fully within the freedom only found through You. Help us to delight in Your commands and meditate on Your statutes because we adore time in Your presence. Enable us to let go of bondage of sin or guilt and rely on You to pull us from the depth of self-reliance and into Your sacrificial love and presence. Help us to believe and build a life on Your truths. May Your word not be contrary to what we believe because our mind and heart are fixed on You. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Additional episodes may be heard at terrihitt.com, but the podcast is also a part of the Spark Media Network. Now the podcast may also be found on the Edifi app, where you can find thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed this podcast on Apple Podcasts yet? If you haven’t, would you please consider doing so? When you review the podcast on Apple Podcasts, it helps to elevate the standing online so that more people are allowed to find and hear it. Have you listened to my second podcast, “Purposed Parent/Connected Child” yet? I hope you will listen to this new podcast, especially if you are raising children or influencing grandchildren. Please follow and share both of my podcasts with friends or family who would like to choose Christ over culture and be a parent (or be a grandparent) who connects with eternal purpose. Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will direct them away from Christ. Live With Eternal Perspective helps us to find, trust, and follow Christ more intimately. Purposed Parent/Connected Child shares biblical, practical truths for parents and grandparents to influence and mentor Christ over culture. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 129 - Don't Let Lies Keep You From Living in the Fullness of Christ Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #129 – Don’t Let Lies Keep You From Living in the Fullness of Christ Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. After high school, most of the kids I studied with headed off to college. Although my parents and I never formulated a plan for my continued education, my father always told me he desired me to become a lawyer. Being an attorney was not a profession I would enjoy at all! I wanted to be the next big journalist and interviewer – like Barbara Walters. I could envision myself interviewing everyone – from famous to infamous, especially those no one knew publicly, but were greatly loved by family and friends and influential or impactful in the world. Everyone has a history with intimate stories to tell that inspire and bond most of us together. Despite backgrounds or history, I like to think most of us are more alike than different. I wanted to explore and share those stories. During my senior year of high school, I did complete some advanced classes, which would have given me high school and college dual credit. Nowadays, families plan and prepare for university years in advance. Back then, my family and I didn’t know how to plan in advance, and we voiced no thoughts about where I would attend college or how I would pay to obtain a degree. When I discovered I was pregnant that summer, the news changed the direction of my life. No longer did I daydream about ivy league schools or how I’d amaze every Language Arts professor there with my prolific prose that would surely bring rave reviews and awards. Instead, I was faced with telling my parents they would soon be grandparents and I was terrified to share the news I could barely comprehend. I was about to be a mother. Before I told them, my steady boyfriend and I decided that since we were already planning to get married in the future, we would just do it sooner. Surprisingly, his parents were very supportive, which made it easier to gather the courage to tell my parents and begin to stand up for what I wanted. In the end, my husband and I hurried to marry before I started showing. He had turned 18 just a month and a half before we were married. I was 17 years old. Although I did not yet know Christ as my Savior, and I was not raised with discussions about the reasons a girl should wait to have sex after marriage, I felt a tremendous amount of guilt. I praise God that my husband and I truly loved each other, although at the time I wasn’t really sure what true and lasting love between a man and a woman was. Looking back on those early years of our marriage, I can now see ways I wish I would have been able to remove myself from the burden of guilt, but I didn’t know how without Christ. It wasn’t that I thought about my sin every day. In fact, I was usually happy. I loved my husband and our baby girl when she arrived. Yet, I didn’t live a peace that passes understanding and only comes through relationship with Jesus. As I think back on those years, I can easily remember the emotions and guilt I carried, thinking I wasn’t as good as those who graduated from college or those who remained sexually pure until after marriage. Happiness isn’t the same as deep and lasting joy. I wonder how much joy I cheated myself out of. What did I miss by allowing lingering thoughts far from what God would have me thinking? Are you missing out on a special life Christ has for you? After I found new life through submission to Jesus and a new life through relationship with Him, I was able to let go of guilt. Now I strive to walk with Him moment by moment. He is present to guide and guard and to protect and provide my every need. He is ready to do exactly the same for you as you are covered by His sacrifice and grace. Philippians 4:6-8 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Through Jesus, we can live with freedom from sin and guilt. Because of Christ, we can know and believe the truth, but how do we escape our past and stop living in the bondage of guilt from sin? I believe there are several feelings that cause us to miss out on the life we could experience through God. Please remember that feelings are important. God allowed us the capacity to feel emotions and thoughts. However, we don’t have to stay stuck in them. It’s important to look at the definition of the word “feelings” to allow us to move past remaining in our emotions. The word “feelings” is described as sentiments, attitude, and opinion or an emotional perception. Keep that definition in mind when you allow words to flow through your mind or define you or your life, so you can process and destroy those feelings that keep you from living in the fullness Christ intends. Let’s expose some of the “fears” feelings can craft within you: 1. Fear of inadequacy 2. Fear of failure 3. Fear of trust 4. Fear of disappointment 5. Fear of comparison 6. Fear of judgement 7. Fear of separation 8. Fear of hope 9. Fear of positivity God’s holy Scripture reveals truth to us that is often contrary to what we feel. 2 Corinthians 3:17 says, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” When we live by feelings, emotions, experiences, and comparisons, we rely on self. It’s similar to the Old Testament practice of keeping laws and traditions or relying on ceremonies. But those formalities pointed the way to Christ. They expose our need for Him. Because of Jesus and the Holy Spirit alive within believers, freedom from sin and guilt is provided freely. When we trust in Jesus, the burden of pleasing Him is removed. The inevitable guilt is gone. We will always fall short of perfection, but by trusting our lives to Jesus, we find that “where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” Christ enables us to look to Him and be renewed each moment. Ephesians 3:14-21 says, “For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of His glory He may grant you to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Let’s examine the difference in our life before and after Christ. In our life before Christ we are: 1. Against God 2. Dead in sin 3. World and flesh followers 4. Under bondage to Satan 5. Victims of our thoughts and feelings In our life after Christ, He lives within us, and we are: 1. God’s child 2. Reborn through Christ 3. Following Jesus’s truths 4. Freed through Jesus 5. Living in fullness and freedom The fullness of God can only be known through Christ. Through Jesus and the Holy Spirit alive within us, we are complete. God love reaches within every corner and crevice of our being. His love and forgiveness is deep and wide, immersing within where we think He won’t look or could love and extending far beyond us. It is high and low, reaching above and below what we deserve, expect, or imagine. As we live for Him daily, reliant on Him, we are transformed moment by moment. Scripture, faith, prayers, and obedience keep us connected to the Holy Spirit who fills every need we carry and allows us to experience freedom and fullness. Commit to believe, follow, and claim the Lord Jesus. Every single moment. Galatians 5:1says, “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” 1 Peter 2:16 says, “Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.” Dear Heavenly Father, Your steadfast love surrounds and abounds within us. We welcome You and the Holy Spirit to cover and complete us. According to Your promises, we have hope and peace in the fullness of life that comes from You. Help us keep Your laws and obey Your truths and purpose for us because we live fully within the freedom only found through You. Help us to delight in Your commands and meditate on Your statutes because we adore time in Your presence. Enable us to let go of bondage of sin or guilt and rely on You to pull us from the depth of self-reliance and into Your sacrificial love and presence. Help us to believe and build a life on Your truths. May Your word not be contrary to what we believe because our mind and heart are fixed on You. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to this podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Additional episodes may be heard at terrihitt.com, but the podcast is also a part of the Spark Media Network. Now the podcast may also be found on the Edifi app, where you can find thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed this podcast on Apple Podcasts yet? If you haven’t, would you please consider doing so? When you review the podcast on Apple Podcasts, it helps to elevate the standing online so that more people are allowed to find and hear it. Have you listened to my second podcast, “Purposed Parent/Connected Child” yet? I hope you will listen to this new podcast, especially if you are raising children or influencing grandchildren. Please follow and share both of my podcasts with friends or family who would like to choose Christ over culture and be a parent (or be a grandparent) who connects with eternal purpose. Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will direct them away from Christ. Live With Eternal Perspective helps us to find, trust, and follow Christ more intimately. Purposed Parent/Connected Child shares biblical, practical truths for parents and grandparents to influence and mentor Christ over culture. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

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< Back Purposed Parent/Connected Child Podcast Episode 031 - How to Lay Groundwork for Your Child to Build a Life of Faith Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Purposed Parent/Connected Child Podcast Episode #031 – How to Lay Groundwork for Your Child to Build a Life of Faith Thank you for listening to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast. My prayer is that you and I will parent with purpose and confidently connect with Christ and our children moment by moment. Reading with my daughters has always been a joy for me. I remember the very first night my middle daughter, Marissa came home to us when she was ten months old. After about 36 hours of traveling, my husband, our precious new baby, and I were exhausted. When we finally arrived home from the airport, we felt dirty, hungry, and ready to clean up, unpack, and get to bed. Instead, we needed to acclimate our sweet baby to a new home. While in China, she had finally accepted us and adjusted to the hotel we were staying in, right before we had to whisk her off to another new place. There was no way she could comprehend that this was the end to her journey. She was finally home. I remember carrying her around the house, taking her into every room, showing her new surroundings. I kept my voice soft and gentle, and while carrying her close to me, I swayed her, rocked her, and fed her, but nothing soothed her. I finally paid attention to the thought that continued to press into my mind. “Read to her.” Before we had left for China, I had prepared her room, so I went to the rocking chair we purchased for her nursery, sat down, and picked up “The “Story of Jesus” book we had received at one of our baby showers from the small table next to the chair. I honestly didn’t think my ten month old would appreciate a book. Certainly she wasn’t old enough to be soothed by me reading to her, especially since she was just getting used to me and the sound of my voice. Nevertheless, I followed the still, small command in my mind and began reading as I held her in my lap. Instantly, tears stopped flowing and her cries ceased. “The Story of Jesus” worked what felt like a miracle that night, just like Jesus Himself has done for so long. What miracles do we overlook daily ? What signs and wonders are still shown today? Study the life and miracles of Jesus in Scripture so that you are growing in your walk with Him moment by moment. Learn to seek the deeper meanings of the miracles He performed. Remember that He still performs miracles today. John 20:30-31 says, “Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name .” Share the wonder and miracles of Christ with your children. The book of John is a wonderful place to begin filling your child with curiosity and amazement at the power and life of Christ. John 2:11 says, “What Jesus did here in Cana of Galilee was the first of the signs through which He revealed his glory; and His disciples believed in Him .” The word “sign” in this verse was used by John because he was referring to displays of magnificent authority and glory executed by Jesus . Through faith , those present were able to witness divine events in the midst of ordinary days . Jesus, however, did not use these miracles to show His power or self. The signs carried a significance beyond the acts Jesus performed; they laid holy evidence of sacred power and majesty . The Book of John, Chapter 2 shares eight particular signs that showcase and give glory to the significance of Christ. Signs & Significance = Jesus is/has : John 2:1-12 - Jesus turns water into wine proving He is The Source of Life John 4:46-54 - Jesus heals a nobleman’s son - proving He is Master over distance John 5:1-17 - Jesus heals a lame man at the pool of Bethesda proving He is Master over Time John 6:1-14 - Jesus feeds 5,000 proving He is The Bread of Life John 6:15-21 - Jesus walks on water and stills a storm proving He is Master over Nature John 9:1-41 - Jesus heals a man who was blind from birth - proving He is The Light of the World John 11:17-45 - Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead - proving He has Power over Death John 21:6 - Jesus causes an abundant fish catch proving He is Master over Animals When taught about Jesus, children cannot resist the miraculous feats of Jesus. Their minds are open and ready to learn of Jesus and to accept the groundwork of a strong and lasting faith. As you read these stories, present them in age-appropriate ways. Pay attention to the interests and characteristics of your child or children. Consider how they learn. There are so many options for teaching about Christ in fun, exciting, and serious ways. You can choose to draw stories on a white or chalk board, or on paper, you may use felt pieces, dolls, or costumes, or you can simply read from the Bible and discuss study notes together. Children are filled with wonder. They easily grow a desire for Christ and an understanding of His holy power and meaning in their life. Enable them to begin viewing Him as the Authority and one who cares for them in every way. Laying the groundwork for our children to build a life of faith consists of many small, intentional acts of eternal perspective. If you think back to my story at the beginning of this podcast, the reaction my baby had to hearing “The Story of Jesus” led me to begin reading many books to her right away. Enjoying reading and stories together has always been a delightful time of bonding, imagination, and dreams. Marissa began going to the library before she was a year old and the outing was always something she seemed to look forward to. Beyond strong literature with beautiful illustrations, however, she was exposed to Bible stories from that first night home. It was such a gift to see her calmed by the book I read to her that first night. I recognized that my Heavenly Father was at work, already constructing the foundation for a lifetime of faith for my child if I would remain faithful to Him in mentoring and discipling her. It's never too early to expose our children to Bible stories and truths that will grow their interest and knowledge of Christ. Children easily see miraculous signs. They are awed by the amazing acts of Jesus. This is the groundwork parents can use to train children to look deeper into Who Jesus is and to construct faith based on the significance of His signs and wonders. The stories of Jesus will draw them in and allow them to pay attention to the man who will change everything about their life and identity if they welcome Him. Matthew 19:14 says, “Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these .” It’s never too late to honor the Lord in the way you mentor Him to your child . Expectant mothers have the beautiful gift of preparing their heart and deepening their personal walk with Jesus before her precious baby arrives. How beautiful it is to look into the future and imagine what life God would desire for your baby. I suggest expectant mothers prayerfully compose a list of the attributes God would desire your baby to have. Write down where you see your child in a year, five years, ten years, as a teen, and when they graduate from high school. Locate Scripture to write prayers to guide the development of your child in godly ways. Seek God’s plans and follow His promptings. Mothers of newborns have the blessing of singing or speaking God’s Word over their children. Reading Scripture to your baby is a wonderful way to introduce them to the Bible. They will grow up with reverence for the Word and know where to find answers to life situations if they are accustomed to hearing His Word and seeing you study Scripture. The same applies to toddlers and preschoolers. You can also enjoy Bible devotionals together. Short times of study and prayer together become a staple in the lifestyle your child expects and deserves. As your child matures, continue to pray with them and ask them to pray with you. Seek God together when they have questions or problems. Help them acquire the habit of always seeking their Heavenly Father in all situations. There are so many ways to make Him known. Nature walks, Bible studies, life situations, as well as the trials and tragedies in this world are all moments you can share with your child. As you naturally invite God into every moment of life, your child will do the same. Discipling a child from birth is a blessed way to enjoy a life of joy together. What if you came to know Christ later in life? What if you did not grow your Christian faith until your children were older? While you are breathing on this earth, it’s never too late to mature and deepen your personal walk with Jesus and mentor your child to do the same. If your child is a teen without Christ or even an adult, allow them to see the changes Christ makes in your life. Remember that every action and reaction you make, the words you speak, the attitude you carry is a reflection on the God you follow. As you grow in Him, the changes you make visible will greatly impact those around you when you give the Lord glory and credit. Our children, no matter the age, are precious to God. They matter to Him because He created them with intention and for a purpose. The greatest gift He offered each of us was His own Son and He deeply desires that we make Him known to our children. Dear Heavenly Father, there truly is none like You. That You have such a love for us, despite what we feel for You is astounding. That You allow us to influence the children You personally crafted with intention and for great purposes is a miracle I never forget. Please help us to remember the price Jesus paid to allow us to come to You now and for eternity. Help us to see our children with Your eyes full of love, mercy, and grace. Help us to desire to raise them as You call us to. Help us to mentor You in ways only possible as we cling to You and allow Your mighty hands to carry us. May our children have great faith and desire for You. May they find You now and cultivate close relationship with You on purpose. Help us to please You as we parent. Thank you for Your beautiful gifts. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to the “Purposed Parent/Connected Child” podcast. This and my “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast may be found at terrihitt.com, iHeart Radio, Spotify, and they are part of the Spark Media Network. Both podcasts may also now be found on the Edifi app, where you can hear thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed my podcasts on Apple Podcasts yet? Did you know that when you review my podcasts on Apple, it helps to elevate the standing of the podcasts online so that more people are allowed to find and hear them. Will you please take a moment to follow the shows and think of someone you can share the podcasts with and encourage them to follow and share, as well? Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will sway them away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Parent and Connect With Eternal Perspective. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #075 - Make Time for Rest in Him The last two weeks have been extremely busy and difficult at our house as we have dealt with unexpected issues. We are all doing all right, yet I know that God is calling us to rest. Life has been throwing hard moments and decisions that none of us were ready for. Isn’t that the way the world works? In reality, if it were any different, we probably wouldn’t be forced at times to grow very quickly in depth of faith that matures our walk with God through Jesus. I am thankful, and I am praising God for His hand in the hard times that we face, but only for the purpose of growing my depth of reliance in Him and walking in greater obedience. I sense His spirit prompting me to create an upcoming podcast with the details, but for now, I am to rest. In Him. Mark 6:30-32 says, “The apostles gathered together with Jesus; and they reported to Him all that they had done and taught. And He said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a secluded place and rest a while.” (For there were many people coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.) They went away in the boat to a secluded place by themselves.” Jesus is concerned with each detail of our life as He allows moments that cause us to choose Him despite pain, heartache, and suffering. I am thankful I know and trust Him. Do you trust Jesus? Life is too hard without Him. Jesus even cares about the practicalities of our life. He understands when we are exhausted, hurting, or confused. Our Lord and Savior desires us to rest in Him wholly. Matthew 13:33b says, “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal till it was all leavened.” Just as bread must contain leaven to rise, our faith journey must continue to be kneaded into a new form. After being added to the lump of dough, the added yeast will achieve the work it is to do over time. Although the results are not seen and they are not immediate, the leaven is working, eventually affecting our life and those around us. Such is the work of the Lord in and through us. Precious Lord, You are holy. You are sovereign. You are good, despite circumstances. You understand when we are weary. You know when we are hurting. In fact, you move before us to put all things into place for those who trust in You. We know You work all things together for the good of those who love You, for those who are called according to Your purpose. Just as Jesus rested, You call us to abide in You and allow Your Spirit to calm us, to cradle us, to carry us. We need You, Father. Give us Your peace that passes understanding. Allow us to rise up on wings of eagles and soar with renewed strength in Your great name. Cause us to follow wherever You lead with a hope and trust that please You and give You great joy as You delight in us. In Your precious name we pray. Amen. This week I pray you find new ways to rest in Him and cause yourself to cling to Him in deeper ways that test your faith and understanding. Allow Him to bring you to a new level of trust and abandonment of self. I hope you will look at past episodes of Live With Eternal Perspective to help you find ways to seek God with a heart and mind fixed on eternity. Send me a message at info@terrihitt.com if you would like suggestions on specific topics. Thank you for listening to this podcast. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 075 Make Time for Rest in Him Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #075 - Make Time for Rest in Him The last two weeks have been extremely busy and difficult at our house as we have dealt with unexpected issues. We are all doing all right, yet I know that God is calling us to rest. Life has been throwing hard moments and decisions that none of us were ready for. Isn’t that the way the world works? In reality, if it were any different, we probably wouldn’t be forced at times to grow very quickly in depth of faith that matures our walk with God through Jesus. I am thankful, and I am praising God for His hand in the hard times that we face, but only for the purpose of growing my depth of reliance in Him and walking in greater obedience. I sense His spirit prompting me to create an upcoming podcast with the details, but for now, I am to rest. In Him. Mark 6:30-32 says, “The apostles gathered together with Jesus; and they reported to Him all that they had done and taught. And He said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a secluded place and rest a while.” (For there were many people coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.) They went away in the boat to a secluded place by themselves.” Jesus is concerned with each detail of our life as He allows moments that cause us to choose Him despite pain, heartache, and suffering. I am thankful I know and trust Him. Do you trust Jesus? Life is too hard without Him. Jesus even cares about the practicalities of our life. He understands when we are exhausted, hurting, or confused. Our Lord and Savior desires us to rest in Him wholly. Matthew 13:33b says, “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal till it was all leavened.” Just as bread must contain leaven to rise, our faith journey must continue to be kneaded into a new form. After being added to the lump of dough, the added yeast will achieve the work it is to do over time. Although the results are not seen and they are not immediate, the leaven is working, eventually affecting our life and those around us. Such is the work of the Lord in and through us. Precious Lord, You are holy. You are sovereign. You are good, despite circumstances. You understand when we are weary. You know when we are hurting. In fact, you move before us to put all things into place for those who trust in You. We know You work all things together for the good of those who love You, for those who are called according to Your purpose. Just as Jesus rested, You call us to abide in You and allow Your Spirit to calm us, to cradle us, to carry us. We need You, Father. Give us Your peace that passes understanding. Allow us to rise up on wings of eagles and soar with renewed strength in Your great name. Cause us to follow wherever You lead with a hope and trust that please You and give You great joy as You delight in us. In Your precious name we pray. Amen. This week I pray you find new ways to rest in Him and cause yourself to cling to Him in deeper ways that test your faith and understanding. Allow Him to bring you to a new level of trust and abandonment of self. I hope you will look at past episodes of Live With Eternal Perspective to help you find ways to seek God with a heart and mind fixed on eternity. Send me a message at info@terrihitt.com if you would like suggestions on specific topics. Thank you for listening to this podcast. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

< Back Purposed Parent/Connected Child Podcast Episode 026 - Teach Your Child to Seek and Hear God Like Jesus Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Purposed Parent/Connected Child Podcast Episode #026 – Teach Your Child to Seek and Hear God Like Jesus Are you yearning for greater connection with your child? Would you like to parent beyond the moment with eternal perspective? Let’s grow together now with practical tips, scripture, and stories geared to draw your heart to Jesus and guide your child into His arms. I often consider what a precious gift we offer our children when we teach them to seek God and to hear God like Jesus did. How do we teach our children to seek and hear God with joy and purpose like Jesus did? I believe there are two important ways. We must seek and show God and we must teach our children how Jesus sought and heard God. Psalm 78:5-8 says, “He established a testimony in Jacob and appointed a law in Israel, which He commanded our fathers to teach to their children, that the next generation might know them, the children yet unborn, and arise and tell them to their children, so that they should set their hope in God and not forget the works of God, but keep His commandments; and that they should not be like their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation, a generation whose heart was not steadfast, whose spirit was not faithful to God .” In just this one passage of Scripture, the Bible clearly tells us that our number one priority as a parent is to lead our child to God. Our Heavenly Father commanded that the stories of His mighty acts and provisions, as well as His laws would be passed to each generation. God commands each parent to diligently remember and honor Him and intentionally set the eyes and heart of their children on Him . Ephesians 5:15-17 says, “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is .” I believe every Christian parent sets out to raise children to honor the Lord. As honorable as intentions may be though, moments turn into days, days into weeks and months, then months into years. The years we parent our children to adulthood at first glance seem like they will take forever, but then flash away too quickly. Even with great aspirations, life gets messy and problems occur. Unexpected setbacks happen in this world, and sometimes parents lose the importance of focusing on Christ and mentoring the way to Him each day as they deal with life issues that demand immediate attention. Psalm 27:4 says, “One thing have I asked of the LORD, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to inquire in his temple .” Do you love the Lord? Are you attempting to grow in likeness of Him daily, to grow closer in relationship with Him? Do you hear His voice and savor the sweet sound of His instructions for yourself and your children? As we read earlier in Psalm 78, God sets standards for each of us to follow in order to have the very best chance of living with His fullness of joy in family and raising children to know, love, and honor Him. In this sinful, imperfect, fallen world, we will never achieve bliss, but through studying and following God’s plan, we will move closer to Him and His good and perfect will. As we move nearer to God, our children see and value our Father and want to do the same. In order for your children to recognize the Father’s voice, you must know the Son through personal relationship as your Savior. The closer you are to Christ, the more the Father will shine through you for your children to adore and seek. As we live in ways that glorify and honor the Father, we desire to follow His commands. We pay close attention to what the Bible instructs. We read and study it regularly for clear and godly understanding of God’s voice, not the voice of the world. Our children see our desire for God and our consistency in finding and walking with Him. Our need for His strength and guidance, which shows them their need, as well. God grants families the privilege of raising children for Him. He desires that we honor Him in the way we raise our children to see Him through us and draw them nearer to Him in all we are and do as we cling even more tightly to Him . That means it is imperative that we know Jesus and that we know and understand God’s Word . Despite what culture adopts or defends, it is not cruel or unloving to read, know, and state what God calls. We should not be unkind in the way we model God’s commands and instructions. As Christians, we are called to know and complete what God desires. Each person has the choice whether to even accept Christ as Savior. As Joshua 24:15b says, “But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD .” As we look to God’s word, we see many examples of ways to mentor our Father to our children. In the book of Exodus, for example, we see how He led His people, the Israelites out of bondage in Egypt. I mention this particular story because of the important command God issues when this event occurs. Our loving Heavenly Father instructs the Israelites to teach their children all He had done for them. God, in His sovereignty knows that each generation removed from the story of His provision would rapidly cause a downfall or decline in love and honor for Him and in humble obedience to Him. Without gratitude for God foremost in the minds of the children, future descendants would not follow Him. All parents are given the privilege of raising the children God has entrusted to them. Great privilege precedes great responsibility. This blessing beckons the burden to instill God’s truths, morals, and commands into the lives of our children. This leads us to consider two steps. 1. Parents must disciple. As you intentionally come to know God through personal relationship with Jesus, and move toward Christlike thoughts, words, actions, and reactions each day, you are more prepared to parent with purpose . 2. Parents must discipline. Discipline that is completed with loving intentions for the purpose of teaching and correcting behavior is good and godly. Discipline instilled as punishment may drive your children away from God and you. Parenting, especially godly parenting, is a daily death to self when we desire to know, love, and obey God and to exhibit His qualities and characteristics. This enables and encourages our children to love, honor, respect, follow, and obey Him with intentional pursuit. Psalm 94:12 says, “Blessed is the man whom you discipline, O LORD, and whom you teach out of your law .” When a parent disciplines, they should be doing so in an attempt to make disciples . Ask yourself: Are you disciplining your children to follow your ungodly, fallen ways or are you pursuing Christ and mentoring the way to Him through the way you live and correct with godly love and instruction? Earlier I mentioned we must consider 2 steps. Let’s make that 3. 3. Parents must decide. When we choose to parent with purpose, we make sure to provide our children with opportunities to be around others we know are strong godly influences to mentor and guide our children. We also use our personal influence to guide them in the proper ways regarding art, music, entertainment, language, desires, etc. Who we are on the inside is clearly evident to the children who live with us and constantly examine our every word, action, and reaction. We also read the Bible with them and provide an age appropriate study Bible we help them use so they can seek God in personal time. We remain in the Word so that we can answer questions or help them find the answers to the beautiful questions they pose after being in the presence of God through His Holy Word. We also mentor to our children that we find our life answers through God’s Word. I’d also like to share a list of 5 “T’s” to remember as you travel a journey of parenting for the Lord. Treasure the child or children God hand-chose and entrusted to come to you. Train your child or children to pursue the One who intimately knows and adores them and purposed them for this time. Teach your child or children that nothing in this world compares to the riches of life built on the foundation of Christ. Transform your child or children by modeling godly love, language, and behavior. Take your child or children before the Lord in Bible study and prayer so you may seek and know Him together, find His will, and follow His path. Deuteronomy 11:19 says, “You shall teach them to your children, talking of them when you are sitting in your house, and when you are walking by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. ” Now that we’ve focused on what we can do in our individual lives to draw our children nearer to God, let’s examine what Jesus did to ensure He sought and heard the Father. 1. Jesus sought solitude with His Father. Unlike simply meditating to “clear His mind,” as many suggest doing in current culture, Jesus intentionally filled His mind with Scripture and thetruths of God. Jesus directed His mind to dwell on things above as instructed in Colossians 3:2, “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth .” 2. Jesus devoted undisturbed time for prayer with His Heavenly Father . Scripture makes the ways Jesus prayed clear. By studying our Savior, each of us may find new ways to cling to Him and draw nearer to God through prayer. Jesus prayed early in the morning. (Mark 1:35), Jesus went to desolate places to be alone with God (Luke 5:16), Jesus prayed without losing heart (Luke 18:1), Jesus honored God first when He prayed – before thanking Him or petitioning Him (Matthew 6:9), Jesus prayed to remain in God’s will (Matthew 26:39), Jesus trusted God to hear and respond (John 11:41, 42), Jesus prayed intensely and without distraction (Luke 22:44). 3. Jesus quoted Scripture . Jesus understood and valued the truth and inerrancy of Scripture. Many times, Jesus quoted Scripture to people and the devil. Just a few of the times are found in Matthew 4:4, 4:7, and 4:10, Matthew 5:17, 18, John 10:35, and John 17:17. God knows we are not perfect. As we intentionally walk with Him, asking for His wisdom, guidance, provision, and protection in guiding His children to Him, He will provide. It doesn’t mean the road will be easy, but Jesus already told us there would be tribulation, but He has already overcome it. God’s word carries the answers to every personal and parenting need we experience. Personal growth will only arrive through personal relationship with Jesus and consistent pursuit of His word and prayerful time together. As your child sees your godly characteristics and behavior modeled, and receive your encouragement to seek the Lord, you will thrive together in the love of Christ and teach your child to seek and hear God just like Jesus. Dear Heavenly Father, glorious is Your name. Your love for us is beyond good and Your ways are perfect. Father, thank you for entrusting Your children into our incapable hands. We know we are not qualified to parent in the ways You desire, yet You give us opportunity to know You more fully and show You more clearly as we raise children in Your name and ways. God, there are so many ways we fail daily, yet Your grace abounds. Help us to know You well by time with You and enable us to mentor the way to You for our children. God, what a beautiful job You have given us. You planned the union of each parent and child! This broken world confuses and frustrates, but Your Word clarifies and simplifies all we should do. May we honor and please You more each day as we grow in wisdom and understanding of Your desires for us and Your children. May we ever remember that our children are gifts from You and are for Your good pleasure and purpose. Thank you for entrusting them to us. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to the “Purposed Parent/Connected Child” podcast. This and my “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast may be found at terrihitt.com, iHeart Radio, Spotify, and they are part of the Spark Media Network. Both podcasts may also now be found on the Edifi app, where you can hear thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. If you enjoyed this topic, I suggest you listen to Purposed Parent/Connected Podcast Episode #015, “Hearing God’s Voice” or Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #132 “Am I Hearing You, God?” I’d like to know. Have you rated or reviewed my podcasts on Apple Podcasts yet? Did you know that when you review my podcasts on Apple, it helps to elevate the standing of the podcasts online so that more people are allowed to find and hear them. Will you please take a moment to follow the shows and think of someone you can share the podcasts with and encourage them to follow and share, as well? Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will direct them away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Parent and Connect With Eternal Perspective. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #136 – How to Thrive as a Christian in a World of Unbelievers Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. An event that happened one evening about 15 years ago stands out in my mind like it was yesterday. Most of the women at this event were strangers to me, but since a mutual friend had invited each of us to her place to watch an important adoption movie, I felt very comfortable going. At the end of the film, several of us shared our thoughts about what was important to us and why. As soon as my beliefs were spoken, one woman exploded with angry words that shocked and silenced me. Amazed that my belief in God and the viewpoint I had on adoption based on my relationship with Jesus had offended her so harshly, I was unable to think of any response other than to concentrate on stopping the tears threatening to spill down my cheeks. Although my logical side guessed that she was not a believer and must have had something happen in her past that turned her angry against God or Christians, I couldn’t converse logically because I was so disappointed in my friend for not intervening and keeping the space we were in safe for all viewpoints and, of course, for the hurtful words thrown at me by this stranger. As soon as possible, I left the meeting and cried all the way home as I poured my thoughts out to God, and then on the phone with a close friend. I had never faced someone so violently opposed to hearing biblically-based views. It was only later than I realized I had assumed the woman was not a Christian. In reality, believers can look so much like the world that God is never seen. It used to be that professing Christianity was respected. Tolerated. Trusted. Now the most outspoken seem to be those who despise or reject God, or those who when you mention God carry their own definition of what a Christian is. It’s only when you begin conversations that you’re able to discern that the God you worship is not the god they claim as lord of their life. Since it is common for many who profess to be Christians not to read their Bible, they aren’t familiar with the Word. Many of these believers enjoy or prefer the “gentler” approach to preaching. They don’t want to spend a Sunday morning uncomfortable in the pews. In fact, most churches don’t even have pews anymore. It’s more casual to sit on a chair you’d find at any meeting. And it’s more pleasant to hear that God is our friend, looking out for us from above. He understands when we slip up, but He knows we don’t plan to continue sinning. Surely He knows that we aren’t hurting anyone but ourselves, so it’s not a big deal. We’re told he’s an awesome, patient God, so there’s not really anything to worry about. Unbelievers or casual “Christians” do believe that God knows the Gospel offends people. They think He understands that we don’t know how to share Jesus without discomfort or embarrassment. In fact, many believe it’s easier to hear prosperity preaching or blame our issues on enneagram numbers so we don’t have to face change. Or growth. Or put effort into developing a relationship with Christ that purposely matures daily. That way we won’t stand out as separate from others and we won’t offend anyone. God knows we don’t want to scare people off or act like we’re superior by judging them. God surely understands that believers shouldn’t mention current cultural topics like abortion, pre-marital sex, politics, assigned sex at birth, or pornography. By the time believers with this mindset are finished compromising self on so many issues, they may as well remove the identifying label of “Christian” from their identity. Just as unbelievers who have chosen to deny God, each believer must come to a time of humble brokenness that forces us to acknowledge our trust, faith, and hope are only found through Jesus, and confess that we are a product of grace and mercy extended by Christ alone. 1 Corinthians 3:11-17 says, “For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw— each one’s work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. If anyone’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire. Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.” How often do you think of representing God, of being a living representation of His holy temple? Each of us needs to be cognizant of exactly Who God is and what He requires from us as followers of Jesus. Have you noticed that many churches in our present day don’t mention hell often, but Jesus actually preached more about hell than heaven. Many modern churches focus more on a loving God who blesses with prosperity than a God who lovingly disciplines. Romans 1:18-32 says, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things. Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen. For this reason God gave them up to dishonorable passions. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error. And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done. They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness. They are gossips, slanderers, haters of God, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, foolish, faithless, heartless, ruthless. Though they know God’s righteous decree that those who practice such things deserve to die, they not only do them but give approval to those who practice them.” Just like unbelievers, Christians reap what we sow. God will release us to follow the acts of our choosing. When we turn away from the Lord and follow worldly desires instead of heeding the commands of our long-suffering Heavenly Father, God may turn us over to live as pagans to follow the depravity in our heart. This is how generations are lost. Choosing to live the easiest lifestyle is actually more difficult in the end. Thus, we must face the question: how many children and grandchildren are negatively affected or spiritually lost due to compromises in our life that became lifestyle? How many unbelievers will never be reached because they see no difference in the life of those of us professing to be believers? Believers must find that “sweet spot” of reliance on Christ and maturing faith that fuels a desire to be mentored by Christ. One that propels us to sit at His feet in humble adoration. Love is the greatest commandment after worshipping God. It is the only way the holy, agape love from Jesus will lead us to study and understand His Words and desires, even those unspoken pleas and beliefs in the Bible. If we know the Father and we are led by the Son, we should understand and exemplify His guidelines in our life. Our beliefs, words, actions, and reactions should mirror those of Christ, not portray personal feelings or emotions. We should be able to display Jesus, yet point others to Him. When we are questioned or ridiculed about our ideology, we must direct those unbelievers to Him. What we think doesn’t matter. What Jesus says to be truth affects each of us for eternity. The world may not like the fact that believers have a different set of moral codes, but true followers of Christ should be more concerned about reading and studying the Word than listening to the opinions of the world. We must seek to fully understand the Words in red and strive to humble ourselves before Him rather than seek human approval. People may reject the teachings and commands of God, but they may come to follow Him if what we live and speak comes from His Word as we faithfully and prayerfully seek His will and ways, then respond with genuine love and concern when leading others to His Word for direction. What are some of the ways unbelievers view Christ or Christians? 1. Some look at God as a personal “magic genie” who should grant every wish. When He doesn’t, they reject Him. 2. Some think Christians are mean and judgmental. Scripture is foreign to them or they interpret the Word differently because they do not spend time studying and understanding God. 3. Some see God as a crutch and they believe only weak or simple-minded people believe in God. What are some of the reasons people choose to reject Christ? 1. They were raised in a non-Christian home. 2. They may have been raised in a “Christian” home, but never saw biblical principles lived or they were never discipled. 3. They never made the faith of their parents fully their own. 4. They had a weak faith that was rocked or shattered by experiences. 5. They do not understand the Bible because they do not make time to study the Word and grow or mature their walk with Christ, so they begin to question God. 6. They don’t want to humble themselves and submit to God. 7. They don’t want to release sin. I believe God gives each of us the opportunity to experience personal relationship with Him. Because He allows us free will, we shouldn’t expect that everyone will follow Him. It is God’s desire that all know Him, but it is He who does the work in the heart and soul of each person. We should share the Good News of Christ and not be afraid to mature our personal walk with Jesus, but we should not be ashamed or hesitant to speak boldly about our walk with Him. We should be ready to give an account of the work He has done within us. One of the hardest things for me to understand is how those of us who profess to be believers and followers of Christ can differ so greatly on topics such as pre-marital sex, homosexuality, abortion, politics, assigned sex at birth, and other topics like these. Certainly, what we have lived and experienced comes into play, but must be released to focus on what God’s Word teaches and instructs. We are merely fallible humans and only God’s Word can be trusted to lead and instruct what is truth and what are products of a broken, sinful world. Some people claim that abortion isn’t addressed in the Bible, but if you know the character and teachings of our Holy God, we understand that He values life. The Creator of Heaven and Earth intimately planned and prepared each life. Scripture is very clear as to what God believes about abortion. But while our God of love and grace detests abortion, he still loves the person who has had one. Just like any other sin we serve, God is ready to forgive and move us from a place of shame, confusion, deceit, or fear into His mercy and truth. Since we all come from different backgrounds and histories, are at different steps of growth in Christ, live in a fallen, sinful world full of hardships and tragedies, coupled with the fact that not everyone believes in Christ as Savior and attempts to live within His guidelines, it is amazing to me that anyone gets along. But what saddens me is that knowing Christ, and knowing the changes He has and continues to make in me daily as I trust in and follow Him, it makes it difficult for me to understand why some are hesitant and even sometimes passionately hateful about learning more about Jesus and also what He would believe about the state of the world today. Is it because Christians have failed them? Even when we allow for godly grace and love to move us in relationships and communication with others, our sinful nature will sometimes get it wrong – or they will misunderstand. In our pursuit of Jesus, we must always remember the grace and mercy extended to us and live within the guidelines He established for us. Trust Him for the rest and remember that although we should attempt to treat others with love and respect, we cannot please everyone, especially those living with evilness through serving this world. Believers are to live in ways pleasing to God, glorifying Him, not simply live to please everyone in the world. There are times our viewpoints and attitudes will just not be in alignment. This is what causes the divide. This is how the devil flourishes. Also, when others do not believe or follow Christ, they will simply not understand the words we share or the beliefs we carry. 1 Corinthians 2:14 says, “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.” Because of the relationship we carry with Jesus, we must fix our eyes and heart on Him, knowing that when our deepest desire is to please Him, we can trust that He is in charge and will be with us. We can cling to Him and allow Him to carry us through what occurs, whether it be pain and suffering or promise and success. Because believers have the promises of God through His holy Word, we live with hope that is certain, not just a belief. Hope that carries us, comforts us, and connects us to an eternal future with Him. God’s holy Word beautifully and personally instructs each of us about how to live and withstand life in this broken, sinful world. Yet, the power of His living Word also intimately encourages and equips us at the same time. Romans 15:5-6 says, “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” As believers, we have this hope, but also many other fruits of the Spirit, yet because we are at different stages of maturation in our personal walk with Christ and interpretation of the Bible, we will not see eye to eye on all subjects. Imagine if we each allowed the grace of Christ to control our hearts, instead of judgement. With mind, heart, and mouth we should seek to allow Jesus to control our thoughts, motives, actions, reactions, and words so that they remain glorifying to Him and edifying for others. Matthew 5:13-16 says, “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” I believe one of the strongest benefits of believing is the hope found through Christ. How do we learn of this hope? Through reading and studying His precious words. More than ever, I crave reading God’s holy Word. Similar to how we become addicted to sugar when we have it often in our diet, the Word of God draws us in the more we read it. As our relationship grows and matures, our desire for God does as well. Romans 15:4 says, “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” My youngest daughter was brought home to be with us when she was nine years old. If you’ve listened to this podcast for long, you may already know some of her story. Now that she has been with us for several years, and has learned to speak English, it is very interesting to hear what she has to say about her time in China. One of the most touching statements she has made is that she never had hope while there. Now that she is living life with a family that loves her very much, and she has found Jesus as her Savior, she faces each day with hope for the present and for the future. Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” The biggest source of hope for her is found through family and the living hope she has discovered by living in a loving Christian home. By reading God’s Word daily, participating in family devotional time, family prayer time, scripture writing, and conversations that bring Christ into every aspect of life, she has learned that she can hope for a future that is secure through Jesus. The Bible has been integral in allowing her to seek and find Jesus herself. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” • What are some of the benefits believers can exhibit to unbelievers as we show them the difference Christ makes in our lives? We can show them the difference He makes in the following areas: Relationship, Obedience, Faith, Love, Pardon from sin, Fruits of the Spirit, Fellowship with God, Eternal Life • What are some of the benefits they can discover as they commit to following Christ? They will see God work in areas that prove His faithfulness: Love, Relationship, Forgiveness, Faith, Wisdom, Trust, Respect, Grace Ephesians 3:14-20 says, “For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of His glory He may grant you to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” As we strive to live in ways that honor the Father and show grace to others, I believe Christians have strides to make. Only through the loving direction of our gracious Heavenly Father can we properly begin to exhibit His love. As we do so, it does not mean that we compromise the standards He has set for us, but we do live with freedom to love others, even those who rebel against God. We realize that each of us has sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. We are to be discerning, not compromising or going against what God calls for us, but understanding that not all know Him. When living in ignorance, one will not understand or come to accept what they perceive as judgment from a group of people living in ways they do not comprehend. The hardship of trying to live with grace in a world of unbelievers grows more challenging each day. But don’t let it silence your voice or stop you from reaching out to let someone hear stories of God at work in your life and what He can and wants to do for them. God does not issue warnings or instructions to stifle or control any of us. He desires that we walk in step with His commands because He carries no sin and can tolerate no sin. Following His wisdom allows us to stay in step with the Holy Spirit and His beautiful purposes for our life. Through grace and mercy, we have the privilege of seeing the heart of our Father more clearly, thus leaving us with a huge responsibility and purpose to make Him clearly known. So first, we must intentionally seek Him ourselves and strive to humbly know Him fully. Dear Heavenly Father, how far from You we are. How mighty is Your great love for us. Thank you for never leaving or forsaking us. Thank you for Your Son who allows us to be reconciled to You. Father, help us to desire to know You more each day. May the person we are today never be the person we reveal tomorrow because we are in pursuit of a deepening relationship with You moment by moment. Help us to reveal You to others in the ways You ordain and desire. Help us to clearly show You because we make the time to know You. Help our nation and our world to deeply desire and find You because believers are living in the fullness of Your truths and love for others to be attracted to You. Thank you for Your great book of instruction, the Bible. We could spend a lifetime pursuing You within this book and still not be close to knowing You fully. Fill in the gaps we miss and allow our spirit to shine You. We are lost without You. In the precious name of Jesus I pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to the “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast. You can find this and other transcripts online at terrihitt.com. Remember that both of my podcasts are available on the website. You can also find them on Apple Podcast, Spotify, and they are part of the Spark Media Network. Both podcasts are also found on the Edifi app, where you can hear thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed my podcasts on Apple Podcasts yet? When you review my podcast on Apple Podcasts, it helps to elevate the standing of the podcast online so that more people are allowed to find and hear it. Will you take a moment to follow the shows and think of someone you can share the podcasts with and encourage them to follow and share, as well? Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will direct them away from Christ. Live With Eternal Perspective helps us to find, trust, and follow Christ more intimately. Purposed Parent/Connected Child shares biblical, practical truths for parents and grandparents to influence and mentor Christ over culture. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 136 - How to Thrive as a Christian in a World of Unbelievers Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #136 – How to Thrive as a Christian in a World of Unbelievers Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to seek, find, and follow Jesus together as we live with purposed eternal perspective. An event that happened one evening about 15 years ago stands out in my mind like it was yesterday. Most of the women at this event were strangers to me, but since a mutual friend had invited each of us to her place to watch an important adoption movie, I felt very comfortable going. At the end of the film, several of us shared our thoughts about what was important to us and why. As soon as my beliefs were spoken, one woman exploded with angry words that shocked and silenced me. Amazed that my belief in God and the viewpoint I had on adoption based on my relationship with Jesus had offended her so harshly, I was unable to think of any response other than to concentrate on stopping the tears threatening to spill down my cheeks. Although my logical side guessed that she was not a believer and must have had something happen in her past that turned her angry against God or Christians, I couldn’t converse logically because I was so disappointed in my friend for not intervening and keeping the space we were in safe for all viewpoints and, of course, for the hurtful words thrown at me by this stranger. As soon as possible, I left the meeting and cried all the way home as I poured my thoughts out to God, and then on the phone with a close friend. I had never faced someone so violently opposed to hearing biblically-based views. It was only later than I realized I had assumed the woman was not a Christian. In reality, believers can look so much like the world that God is never seen. It used to be that professing Christianity was respected. Tolerated. Trusted. Now the most outspoken seem to be those who despise or reject God, or those who when you mention God carry their own definition of what a Christian is. It’s only when you begin conversations that you’re able to discern that the God you worship is not the god they claim as lord of their life. Since it is common for many who profess to be Christians not to read their Bible, they aren’t familiar with the Word. Many of these believers enjoy or prefer the “gentler” approach to preaching. They don’t want to spend a Sunday morning uncomfortable in the pews. In fact, most churches don’t even have pews anymore. It’s more casual to sit on a chair you’d find at any meeting. And it’s more pleasant to hear that God is our friend, looking out for us from above. He understands when we slip up, but He knows we don’t plan to continue sinning. Surely He knows that we aren’t hurting anyone but ourselves, so it’s not a big deal. We’re told he’s an awesome, patient God, so there’s not really anything to worry about. Unbelievers or casual “Christians” do believe that God knows the Gospel offends people. They think He understands that we don’t know how to share Jesus without discomfort or embarrassment. In fact, many believe it’s easier to hear prosperity preaching or blame our issues on enneagram numbers so we don’t have to face change. Or growth. Or put effort into developing a relationship with Christ that purposely matures daily. That way we won’t stand out as separate from others and we won’t offend anyone. God knows we don’t want to scare people off or act like we’re superior by judging them. God surely understands that believers shouldn’t mention current cultural topics like abortion, pre-marital sex, politics, assigned sex at birth, or pornography. By the time believers with this mindset are finished compromising self on so many issues, they may as well remove the identifying label of “Christian” from their identity. Just as unbelievers who have chosen to deny God, each believer must come to a time of humble brokenness that forces us to acknowledge our trust, faith, and hope are only found through Jesus, and confess that we are a product of grace and mercy extended by Christ alone. 1 Corinthians 3:11-17 says, “For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw— each one’s work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. If anyone’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire. Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.” How often do you think of representing God, of being a living representation of His holy temple? Each of us needs to be cognizant of exactly Who God is and what He requires from us as followers of Jesus. Have you noticed that many churches in our present day don’t mention hell often, but Jesus actually preached more about hell than heaven. Many modern churches focus more on a loving God who blesses with prosperity than a God who lovingly disciplines. Romans 1:18-32 says, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things. Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen. For this reason God gave them up to dishonorable passions. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error. And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done. They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness. They are gossips, slanderers, haters of God, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, foolish, faithless, heartless, ruthless. Though they know God’s righteous decree that those who practice such things deserve to die, they not only do them but give approval to those who practice them.” Just like unbelievers, Christians reap what we sow. God will release us to follow the acts of our choosing. When we turn away from the Lord and follow worldly desires instead of heeding the commands of our long-suffering Heavenly Father, God may turn us over to live as pagans to follow the depravity in our heart. This is how generations are lost. Choosing to live the easiest lifestyle is actually more difficult in the end. Thus, we must face the question: how many children and grandchildren are negatively affected or spiritually lost due to compromises in our life that became lifestyle? How many unbelievers will never be reached because they see no difference in the life of those of us professing to be believers? Believers must find that “sweet spot” of reliance on Christ and maturing faith that fuels a desire to be mentored by Christ. One that propels us to sit at His feet in humble adoration. Love is the greatest commandment after worshipping God. It is the only way the holy, agape love from Jesus will lead us to study and understand His Words and desires, even those unspoken pleas and beliefs in the Bible. If we know the Father and we are led by the Son, we should understand and exemplify His guidelines in our life. Our beliefs, words, actions, and reactions should mirror those of Christ, not portray personal feelings or emotions. We should be able to display Jesus, yet point others to Him. When we are questioned or ridiculed about our ideology, we must direct those unbelievers to Him. What we think doesn’t matter. What Jesus says to be truth affects each of us for eternity. The world may not like the fact that believers have a different set of moral codes, but true followers of Christ should be more concerned about reading and studying the Word than listening to the opinions of the world. We must seek to fully understand the Words in red and strive to humble ourselves before Him rather than seek human approval. People may reject the teachings and commands of God, but they may come to follow Him if what we live and speak comes from His Word as we faithfully and prayerfully seek His will and ways, then respond with genuine love and concern when leading others to His Word for direction. What are some of the ways unbelievers view Christ or Christians? 1. Some look at God as a personal “magic genie” who should grant every wish. When He doesn’t, they reject Him. 2. Some think Christians are mean and judgmental. Scripture is foreign to them or they interpret the Word differently because they do not spend time studying and understanding God. 3. Some see God as a crutch and they believe only weak or simple-minded people believe in God. What are some of the reasons people choose to reject Christ? 1. They were raised in a non-Christian home. 2. They may have been raised in a “Christian” home, but never saw biblical principles lived or they were never discipled. 3. They never made the faith of their parents fully their own. 4. They had a weak faith that was rocked or shattered by experiences. 5. They do not understand the Bible because they do not make time to study the Word and grow or mature their walk with Christ, so they begin to question God. 6. They don’t want to humble themselves and submit to God. 7. They don’t want to release sin. I believe God gives each of us the opportunity to experience personal relationship with Him. Because He allows us free will, we shouldn’t expect that everyone will follow Him. It is God’s desire that all know Him, but it is He who does the work in the heart and soul of each person. We should share the Good News of Christ and not be afraid to mature our personal walk with Jesus, but we should not be ashamed or hesitant to speak boldly about our walk with Him. We should be ready to give an account of the work He has done within us. One of the hardest things for me to understand is how those of us who profess to be believers and followers of Christ can differ so greatly on topics such as pre-marital sex, homosexuality, abortion, politics, assigned sex at birth, and other topics like these. Certainly, what we have lived and experienced comes into play, but must be released to focus on what God’s Word teaches and instructs. We are merely fallible humans and only God’s Word can be trusted to lead and instruct what is truth and what are products of a broken, sinful world. Some people claim that abortion isn’t addressed in the Bible, but if you know the character and teachings of our Holy God, we understand that He values life. The Creator of Heaven and Earth intimately planned and prepared each life. Scripture is very clear as to what God believes about abortion. But while our God of love and grace detests abortion, he still loves the person who has had one. Just like any other sin we serve, God is ready to forgive and move us from a place of shame, confusion, deceit, or fear into His mercy and truth. Since we all come from different backgrounds and histories, are at different steps of growth in Christ, live in a fallen, sinful world full of hardships and tragedies, coupled with the fact that not everyone believes in Christ as Savior and attempts to live within His guidelines, it is amazing to me that anyone gets along. But what saddens me is that knowing Christ, and knowing the changes He has and continues to make in me daily as I trust in and follow Him, it makes it difficult for me to understand why some are hesitant and even sometimes passionately hateful about learning more about Jesus and also what He would believe about the state of the world today. Is it because Christians have failed them? Even when we allow for godly grace and love to move us in relationships and communication with others, our sinful nature will sometimes get it wrong – or they will misunderstand. In our pursuit of Jesus, we must always remember the grace and mercy extended to us and live within the guidelines He established for us. Trust Him for the rest and remember that although we should attempt to treat others with love and respect, we cannot please everyone, especially those living with evilness through serving this world. Believers are to live in ways pleasing to God, glorifying Him, not simply live to please everyone in the world. There are times our viewpoints and attitudes will just not be in alignment. This is what causes the divide. This is how the devil flourishes. Also, when others do not believe or follow Christ, they will simply not understand the words we share or the beliefs we carry. 1 Corinthians 2:14 says, “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.” Because of the relationship we carry with Jesus, we must fix our eyes and heart on Him, knowing that when our deepest desire is to please Him, we can trust that He is in charge and will be with us. We can cling to Him and allow Him to carry us through what occurs, whether it be pain and suffering or promise and success. Because believers have the promises of God through His holy Word, we live with hope that is certain, not just a belief. Hope that carries us, comforts us, and connects us to an eternal future with Him. God’s holy Word beautifully and personally instructs each of us about how to live and withstand life in this broken, sinful world. Yet, the power of His living Word also intimately encourages and equips us at the same time. Romans 15:5-6 says, “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” As believers, we have this hope, but also many other fruits of the Spirit, yet because we are at different stages of maturation in our personal walk with Christ and interpretation of the Bible, we will not see eye to eye on all subjects. Imagine if we each allowed the grace of Christ to control our hearts, instead of judgement. With mind, heart, and mouth we should seek to allow Jesus to control our thoughts, motives, actions, reactions, and words so that they remain glorifying to Him and edifying for others. Matthew 5:13-16 says, “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” I believe one of the strongest benefits of believing is the hope found through Christ. How do we learn of this hope? Through reading and studying His precious words. More than ever, I crave reading God’s holy Word. Similar to how we become addicted to sugar when we have it often in our diet, the Word of God draws us in the more we read it. As our relationship grows and matures, our desire for God does as well. Romans 15:4 says, “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” My youngest daughter was brought home to be with us when she was nine years old. If you’ve listened to this podcast for long, you may already know some of her story. Now that she has been with us for several years, and has learned to speak English, it is very interesting to hear what she has to say about her time in China. One of the most touching statements she has made is that she never had hope while there. Now that she is living life with a family that loves her very much, and she has found Jesus as her Savior, she faces each day with hope for the present and for the future. Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” The biggest source of hope for her is found through family and the living hope she has discovered by living in a loving Christian home. By reading God’s Word daily, participating in family devotional time, family prayer time, scripture writing, and conversations that bring Christ into every aspect of life, she has learned that she can hope for a future that is secure through Jesus. The Bible has been integral in allowing her to seek and find Jesus herself. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” • What are some of the benefits believers can exhibit to unbelievers as we show them the difference Christ makes in our lives? We can show them the difference He makes in the following areas: Relationship, Obedience, Faith, Love, Pardon from sin, Fruits of the Spirit, Fellowship with God, Eternal Life • What are some of the benefits they can discover as they commit to following Christ? They will see God work in areas that prove His faithfulness: Love, Relationship, Forgiveness, Faith, Wisdom, Trust, Respect, Grace Ephesians 3:14-20 says, “For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of His glory He may grant you to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” As we strive to live in ways that honor the Father and show grace to others, I believe Christians have strides to make. Only through the loving direction of our gracious Heavenly Father can we properly begin to exhibit His love. As we do so, it does not mean that we compromise the standards He has set for us, but we do live with freedom to love others, even those who rebel against God. We realize that each of us has sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. We are to be discerning, not compromising or going against what God calls for us, but understanding that not all know Him. When living in ignorance, one will not understand or come to accept what they perceive as judgment from a group of people living in ways they do not comprehend. The hardship of trying to live with grace in a world of unbelievers grows more challenging each day. But don’t let it silence your voice or stop you from reaching out to let someone hear stories of God at work in your life and what He can and wants to do for them. God does not issue warnings or instructions to stifle or control any of us. He desires that we walk in step with His commands because He carries no sin and can tolerate no sin. Following His wisdom allows us to stay in step with the Holy Spirit and His beautiful purposes for our life. Through grace and mercy, we have the privilege of seeing the heart of our Father more clearly, thus leaving us with a huge responsibility and purpose to make Him clearly known. So first, we must intentionally seek Him ourselves and strive to humbly know Him fully. Dear Heavenly Father, how far from You we are. How mighty is Your great love for us. Thank you for never leaving or forsaking us. Thank you for Your Son who allows us to be reconciled to You. Father, help us to desire to know You more each day. May the person we are today never be the person we reveal tomorrow because we are in pursuit of a deepening relationship with You moment by moment. Help us to reveal You to others in the ways You ordain and desire. Help us to clearly show You because we make the time to know You. Help our nation and our world to deeply desire and find You because believers are living in the fullness of Your truths and love for others to be attracted to You. Thank you for Your great book of instruction, the Bible. We could spend a lifetime pursuing You within this book and still not be close to knowing You fully. Fill in the gaps we miss and allow our spirit to shine You. We are lost without You. In the precious name of Jesus I pray. Amen. Thank you for listening to the “Live With Eternal Perspective” podcast. You can find this and other transcripts online at terrihitt.com. Remember that both of my podcasts are available on the website. You can also find them on Apple Podcast, Spotify, and they are part of the Spark Media Network. Both podcasts are also found on the Edifi app, where you can hear thousands of the best Christian podcasts in one place for your listening enjoyment. Have you rated or reviewed my podcasts on Apple Podcasts yet? When you review my podcast on Apple Podcasts, it helps to elevate the standing of the podcast online so that more people are allowed to find and hear it. Will you take a moment to follow the shows and think of someone you can share the podcasts with and encourage them to follow and share, as well? Remember, if we are not purposed in knowing Jesus ourselves and showing Him to the next generation, the world will direct them away from Christ. Live With Eternal Perspective helps us to find, trust, and follow Christ more intimately. Purposed Parent/Connected Child shares biblical, practical truths for parents and grandparents to influence and mentor Christ over culture. I pray that what you hear on this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.

< Back Purposed Parent Connected Child Podcast Episode 082 - The Dangers of Raising a Good Kid Welcome to the Purposed Parent/Connected Child podcast – Episode 082 – The Dangers of Raising a Good Kid When I was young, I often heard the phrase, “be a good girl” from my parents. After I became a young mom at the age of eighteen, I was told to “raise a good child.” As I love to do, I thought I’d look up the definition of the word “good.” Did you know that the word “good” is described as upright , righteous , and obedient? Of course, it’s easy to recognize that these are wonderful qualities. Yet, you and I must stop and consider what gives authority to create the description of the word? Better yet, who defines good ? Who has the authority to call you or me or our children upright, righteous, or obedient? Any person could add whatever spin they desire to the definition of these words, right? However, there is One who has final authority on word meanings. God alone knows what is defined as good , righteous , upright , or obedient . Of course, our Heavenly Father desires that we raise children who carry these qualities. However , He wants the defining actions or characteristics the child carries to be in alignment with what He calls good. When our holy, sovereign, righteous God calls anything good or upright, we trust His evaluation. If we move past our opinion or the dictionary definition and pick up God’s holy Word , we learn what God calls good or righteous. Then we understand that His Word gives much insight and instruction . Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will .” Renewing your mind cannot be completed through following the patterns of the world . If you learn or study worldly wisdom and thoughts, you begin to apply its practices and beliefs and allow them to transform your thought processes. Or you can take a better way. A godly way. Renew your mind through the goodness and truth of God’s Word . Matthew 19:17 says, “Why do you ask Me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, keep the commandments.” Now I’ll share a passage from 2 Peter 1:3-9 which says, “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness. Through these He has given us His very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins.” As you heard in the verses, the Bible instructs us to escape the corruption in this world. Trying to renew the mind through the thoughts and practices of humans or the culture we live in will never bring transformation of what is rightly called good by God . The goodness of man is measured by inferior and untrue standards, but the goodness of God is supported by faith and increasingly built upon by fruits of the Spirit. Ephesians 5:8-10 which says, “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord.” Scripture teaches why it’s dangerous to mentor mere goodness to your children. Your actions as a believer and parent should reflect your faith and how you are building it through your relationship with Christ . Your life should be morally above reproach so your lifestyle, desires, and the way you parent reflects God’s goodness, righteousness, and truth. You can only accomplish that through Christ. God’s holy Word and truths prove it is dangerous to strive to raise a good kid. Without Christ, none of us are righteous or good. Micah 6:8 says, “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” If God tells us He has shown what is good, and requires that we act justly and walk humbly with Him, we understand that to walk with the world and its definitions of righteousness or goodness will be the opposite of God’s definition and desire. Ephesians 4:20-24 says, “That, however, is not the way of life you learned when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” What a beautiful analogy to put off our old self as we put on the new self through Christ. As our attitude and desires are transformed , we are able to mentor God’s goodness to our children, not the definition the world gives. There was a period in my life when I wanted to make sure I was a good person. A good woman. A good wife. A good daughter. A good mother. As my relationship with Jesus matured, I understood that limiting myself to “good ” was “ungodly .” God calls believers to a much higher standard than good. Good isn’t enough for God. It’s true that in the beginning, God proclaimed what He made to be good. However, God is proclaiming His creations are good, not that we individually or collectively are. He spoke the title of good over what He made by His intelligent and perfect design. Everything God makes is good. Yet, in this sinful, fallen world, it didn’t take long for God’s creations to choose sin. Without Christ indwelling you , it is much more difficult for your children to pursue Christ. Without the Holy Spirit within you , there is no godliness for your children to see and emulate. Without Jesus, you and your children are unable to claim the status of “godly,” or “good.” So how do you move from desiring a good life to building a godly life? Only through Christ. Once you recognize your need for God, you begin to realize the need for His perfect Son. Jesus came to pay the price for your sin. He came to pay the ransom for the sins of your children. Once you realize the need for a Savior, and accept the free gift Jesus offers, you are able to live with His Holy Spirit within. You are no longer bound to the world or the sinful temptations. Through relationship with Christ, the Holy Word, and prayerful conversations with God, you can experience a shift from good to godly. That is, if you are seeking Him and a humble, obedient, close connection moment by moment. What you desire must be held up to a mirror, so to speak, as you look at how your desires are reflected against what God calls for you in His holy Word. How you parent must also be held against God’s standards of what is good and righteous. Have you wasted time pursuing what this world calls good? Have you only allowed God access to your dreams and desires, your life, the way you work, live, or parent in small degrees? I wish I could profess to be one of those people who surrendered fully in the moment they accept Christ, but the truth is that each of us have varying degrees of surrender throughout our lifetime. We never reach that finish line in this life. We are so very far beneath God, and so far from Him, that our lifetime should be focused on pursuing deeper relationship with Him and continuing to surrender self. Just as the layers of onion are peeled away exposing more, as we surrender to God we see that there is so much more to offer Him of self. Are you wasting moments striving to be “good” instead of godly? Are you damaging the relationship between your children and Jesus by mentoring the world’s definition of good instead of God’s godliness? Maybe you’re a believer who loves God, but you’re unsure of how to disciple your children in ways that cause your child to build a faith that will last. Or maybe you dream of being a mother one day and wonder how to start building faith that lasts in your children. I remember being in that spot. I didn’t yet understand that the Christian walk is a beautiful relationship between God and man. I didn’t understand the command in Deuteronomy 6:5-9 , which says, “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates .” I assumed that what I was doing to teach my children about Jesus was enough. In reality, they were learning my limited non-discipled faith, and since I was not growing as well as I should have been, they were only able to mimic a portion of my faith, not being discipled well to chase Christ for themselves as children. They were living a narrow view of good instead of the godly goodness of our Heavenly Father . I remember when God clearly showed me how to shift from good to godly parenting and how important it was to Him. The fact that God entrusted His children to me and to you is beyond belief. Mere fallen humans parenting God’s children is a miracle. The role we carry as mothers and spiritual advisors is one we cannot complete in our own strength or by being a good person or mother. The privilege we have been bestowed is one I take very seriously and I pray you do, too. You may have heard of The Set-Apart Collective, where I mentor women in their walk with Christ, help them grow godly mindset through my Motherhood Mindset Model™ and help them create a unique parenting formula based off of my Purposed Parenting Plan™. Because you are a listener of this podcast, I want to share that if this episode resonates with you, please contact me for a very special offer only for listeners. I want your mind and heart to be anchored on Christ through all obstacles. I want to see your family stand on the firm foundation of Christ together. When deep waters swirl around you, when tragedy and troubles plague your home, I want your grip secure on that three-fold cord that keeps Jesus in the center of all. No matter what happens, you will be committed to raising your children and growing with your spouse for Christ. It is time to rise and raise children who know and honor God. How long will mothers sit back and watch as children follow peers over parents or Christ? It doesn’t matter how good a parent you are or want to be. God calls you to be a holy, godly mother. There is nothing greater you can do than fix your heart and mind above and focus on raising His children for Him . Whether you are not yet a mother, but know you want to be in the future, whether you are expecting, or whether you have an infant, toddler, preschooler, or elementary aged child, you have influence. The time to start with purposed practices for Christ is now . Raising a good, typical child should not be your goal. Listen to that still, small voice inside that desires each child to know and serve Him with love and respect. The church alone isn’t going to raise your children to love and serve God fully. It is the day by day moments that will define you and your children, your family as a whole. Did you know that the Greek word for church means, "called-out ones?" The children entrusted to your care were hand-chosen by God to be under your mentorship. He is trusting that you will find every way possible to be the godliest woman and mother you can be so that you will raise called out, or set-apart individuals who bless His Spirit. Stop being a good mom and don’t raise good kids. Dear Heavenly Father, You alone are good. Thank you for showing us the way to You through Jesus and for ensuring that we understand Your definition of good and righteous. Father, we know we don’t deserve Your mercy and kindness, yet You extend it to us over and over through our lifetime. Help us to recognize Your goodness in our life. Help us to make Your goodness known to our children and to extend it to our spouse. Please protect us from the danger of raising good children. Let our children be set-apart and help them see You in us and desire You with a heart set on love and humble obedience to You and Your will and ways. May we please you as we parent and help us hear Your voice in ways that guide us and our children deeper into Your loving, faithful arms. Don’t let us be good women who raise good kids. Let us be set-apart for godliness through Christ. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Supporting and encouraging mothers to rest in Christ and pursue a holy relationship with Him so they purposely raise set-apart children is the cry of my heart. Godly parenting is rooted in relationship with Christ and the mindset a mother carries. That’s why I’ve created the Set-Apart Collective. Have you decided peers and culture won’t be the main influence over your child? Would you like to parent to prepare your child for eternity with Christ, not to repair a relationship? In the Set-Apart Collective, you will deepen your walk with Christ, learn a Christ-centered Motherhood Mindset Model™, and create a Purposed Parenting Plan™. You will be a purposed mother with an intentional mind and heart set on Christ and your family. The Set-Apart Collective is open now. Please send me an email at info@terrihitt.com to let me know you’d like to receive information or look online at terrihitt.com/setapart. We can also set up a 15 minute call to chat about details. It’s time for believing mothers to be purposed in preparing their children for a lifetime pursuit of Christ. If you connected in some way with this episode, would you please rate and review the podcast on Apple or Spotify? It only takes a minute or so and makes a big difference in people finding the podcast. You and I know that the best reviews are by word of mouth, so would you please choose a friend to recommend the show to? Let them know that the podcast is found at terrihitt.com, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. Imagine the change we will see in the way mothers parent for Christ if they learn to be intentional, too. Remember, if you’re not purposed in knowing Jesus and showing Him to the next generation, the world will likely sway your children away from Christ. I pray that what you hear on this podcast enables you to stop being a good mom and focus on being a godly parent. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on new ways to parent with eternal purpose and connection. Previous Next

Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #071 – Alarming New Age Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. I’ve seen many changes in the world in my lifetime. One of the most alarming trends for me is the indoctrination of ideology contrary to God’s truths. Although a great majority of people profess to be Christians, some don’t realize that the term “Christian,” means, “little Christ.” In fact, the term supposedly originated with pagans in Antioch because they could very clearly see a difference in the lifestyles of those following and emulating Jesus. Without the full understanding that to be called a Christian, one must have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior because of the work He did on the cross to redeem us from sin, and that afterward we live with the faithful duty to seek Him and allow Him to transform our life to reflect His, many continue to live in ignorance or rebellion. Sadly, sometimes even after some have professed Jesus as Savior, their life remains unchanged visibly and without proper discipleship, they are deceived by the culture and fleshly desires of self. Romans 5:6-8 says, “For at just the right time, while we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Some may profess to be a Christian simply because they believe there is a God, not because they have experienced the life-changing power of the Holy Spirit at work within them. That is a sad and scary statement. Simply believing there is a God or attending church does not make a person a follower of Christ. Ephesians 4:18 says, “They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts.” Despite the fact that many people claim and believe themselves to be Christians, a growing number of people also claim no religion and instead follow a “new age movement” that began spreading wider in the 70’s and 80’s, and seems to be growing a somewhat larger following now. Even people who profess to be followers of Jesus practice some form of new age fundamentals, many without realizing it. It may be argued that if “religion” can be defined as something a person believes in and follows devotedly, the new age movement can be explained as a type of religion. Honestly, following your flesh could be defined in the same way, which is essentially what this movement does. It could be argued that the foundation of what this belief system focuses on is self-awareness, heightening personal feelings and pride, and believing themselves able to attain equality with God. Unfortunately, a person can purposely choose to follow this sort of lifestyle or easily follow it without intending to, by not purposely choosing to make each moment count for Christ. The truth is that there are only two religions: follow Christ or self. Just as we read in Genesis 3:4-5, “The serpent said to the woman, “You surely will not die! For God knows that in the day you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” The lies of the new age movement remind me of the beginning in Genesis with twisted deception and the prideful sin of humanity. God’s word teaches us that feelings cannot be trusted. No matter what we think or how we feel, truth can only be found when we seek and follow God’s truths. Our omnipotent God is the compass on which we should process and discern good and evil, right or wrong, no matter what our pride or emotions cause us to feel. Self-love and self-actualization have become pedestals to idolatry in our culture. New age ideology is penetrating the minds of Christians and non-believers, as well as educational institutions and churches. Although the idea of loving yourself and reaching your full potential can be made to sound harmless, worthy, and needed, we must remember that the Bible teaches that every single person has inherent value because we were planned for and made in the image of God. Our Heavenly Father is also very clear that without Him, and His holiness, we are completely sinful. We only have the ability to love because He first loved us. The Creator of love instills and completes perfect love that casts out fear in us. Once we follow Him through the sacrifice of Jesus, we are fully able to find our true potential as the One who planned, made, and completes us is free to work through our submission. How has the church of all places, the ground that should be holy and alive for those who follow Jesus, been deceived into subtly proclaiming belief in or practicing concepts from the new age movement that clearly offend and go against what God has chosen for us? In fact, God has clearly instructed and warned us to stay far from it. Belief in psychics, reincarnation, astrology, and communication with the deceased are just a bit of what has subtly been twisted into what is becoming part of everyday routines for many, even some of whom claim to follow the Lord. A life of devotion for Christ is one that seeks Him first, dies to self - moment by moment, and follows Him, even when the cost of obedience is high. Personal transformation through Christ is completely different that the personal transformation of one who seeks to follow self and heightened personal enlightenment. Claiming our personal glory over what Jesus has sacrificed for us happens in subtle ways daily, even when we already feel we love Jesus with a whole heart. Carefully sift what the world offers through the filter of God’s guidelines and guardrails. New age mysticism is evil and demonic at the core. Surprisingly, there are many who fall victim to subtle branches of the following: meditation, reincarnation, astrology, psychics, and the belief that spiritual energy can reside in rivers, trees, or mountains. Any practice can become warped; we must carefully and biblically discern what occupies our time. Anyone who believes that people, who were created by God, have the ability to make their own choice about who or what God is or how we can worship Him, as the new age movement believes, is wrong. Do not be deceived. God gives us the opportunity to choose whether to believe in Him, but if we make the choice to follow Him through Jesus, the Bible, (God’s authoritative and holy word) makes everything clear. We are not equal to God; we are not even close. As Jesus said in Luke 23:34a, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” But we should know. We need to know. We have to pay attention. Those who follow and practice beliefs taught by the new age movement believe in a holistic form of divinity that penetrates the universe and creatures. This way of thinking strengthens their thought that a supreme spiritual self may be obtained, forming a type of self-religion, and explores the belief that there partially divine, non-human forms, such as angels that may be communicated with through channeling. Although, they reject traditional forms of religion, they admit to accepting “spirituality.” Main ideals of this professed spirituality seem to be what they believe to be “better,” ideals of emerging humanity, and include trends, or belief systems which include social change, the occult, which focuses on channeling and contact with spirits, (and we know God clearly instructs us to stay away from this), and a middle ground that desires a sort of individual development focusing on both. What I have touched on are very limited explanations into this belief system. I do not wish to linger explaining because we know that the Bible clearly instructs us to stay away from these practices. As with many topics, it is a slippery slope when we stray from the word and expectations of the Lord. Communicating with spirits and pushing self-reliance and spiritual awakenings apart from God leads to confusion, corruption, and chaos in our lives. Psalm 119: 133 says, “Direct my footsteps according to Your word; let no sin rule over me.” John 8:12 says, “Once again, Jesus spoke to the people and said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.” While many who do not know Jesus think that following Christ is restrictive or that God wouldn’t authorize only one way to Him, His word proves that our Heavenly Father loves us enough to provide one clear path to Him. Contrary to the opinion that life under the direction and authority of Jesus is demanding or strict, Christ offers freedom and realizations far deeper and greater than anything we can find by ourselves or in this temporary home. Mark 13:22-23 says, “For false Christs and false prophets will arise, and will show signs and wonders, in order to lead astray, if possible, the elect. But take heed; behold, I have told you everything in advance.” Anything that leads to practices or habits that are rooted in religions or ceremonies that heighten self-glorification and strip God from His rightful place have no place in the life of a follower of Christ. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted over the earth.” Remember that you do not have to be a follower of the new age movement to be deceived by practices that lead away from God. There are several, but I will list a couple of them here. Please carefully research these that I mention for yourself and prayerfully make your own decision about what you will allow in your life. I am not an expert and I have myself and my own family to protect and watch over, but I love Jesus and I care about the listeners God has sent to this podcast. I want to boldly walk where I feel He is calling. I would be remiss if I did not mention these in this episode as I believe the roots of these seemingly innocent practices are very dangerous. Over the years, transcendental meditation has been allowed in some public schools. Those educational institutions use this practice with students who need extra help calming down at school. Did you know that transcendental meditation was introduced to the western world as a scientific way to reduce stress and find peace within self? That should alert and caution us. Anything that seeks to perform an act within us that relies on self over God should prick our attention. Although this form of meditation is said to provide medicinal benefits and is supposedly used as a way to relax, the fundamentals of Hinduism are rooted in its approach. Instead of attaining a consciousness of God, and seeking and believing on Him to perform a work within us, transcendental meditation calls for a person to cleanse and empty their mind to obtain a state of consciousness called unity. As a person follows this practice, they see that a ceremony is performed that worships Hindu deities and offers sacrifices to them. After this ceremony, the person involved receives a personal mantra to meditate upon that is supposed to be used as a weapon to ward of reasoning, thinking, and conceptualization. The mantra is actually a group of sounds to be repeated over and over to draw the mind to a specific level of essentialism and as it is uttered, the mantra is supposed to invoke spirits from the spirit world. There is much more information about this topic, but followers of Christ should stay very far away from anything that has these evil roots and practices that so clearly go against what God instructs. Philippians 4:8 says, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things.” God never calls us to completely clear our mind to think of ways to elevate our own consciousness and self-awareness. In fact, God calls us to fill our mind with Him and to meditate on His truths. Joshua 1:8 says, “This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in all you do.” Psalm 10:4 says, “In his pride the wicked man does not seek Him; in all his schemes there is no God.” Leviticus 19:31 says, “You must not turn to mediums or spiritists; do not seek them out, or you will be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God.” We do not need to chant mantras to be used as weapons. We have the truth and instructions of God to protect us. Ephesians 6:10-17 says, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore take up the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you will be able to stand your ground, and having done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness arrayed, and with your feet fitted with the readiness of the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” I know this next one will be a sensitive topic to many. Even yoga, which is practiced by many who love God, is said to be united with eastern metaphysics. In a very basic definition, this means that there is no separation between the physical world and the unseen. However, although many people innocently begin yoga as a way to relieve stress and muscle aches, every subtle action in yoga was created to be a prayer to the Hindu gods. Each tiny movement is a gentle symbol designed to speak to spirits and reach a state of union with God. In practical words, when a person practices yoga, they are unknowingly participating in a Hindu ritual. I understand that many people find relief and mobility through the practice of yoga. As I stated earlier, I am not an expert, but I have heard enough about it that I urge you to research for yourself and see what you find or what alternatives are available for you, if you desire to find them. As I close this podcast, remember that new age practices believe that personal transformation will take place after a human being recognizes his oneness with all things. New age beliefs teach people how to find their own values. They do not look to scripture or even parents, (if a student is studying the new age beliefs), because they practice the belief that there are no absolute truths or values (which is back to the moral relativity we discussed a few podcast episodes ago). People are free to discover and create their own values within themselves. Humans are also free to create their own reality through mindfulness practices that are even taught in seminars, public schools, in children’s programs, and at churches and in trainings for corporations. New agers believe that the Bible is to be read by looking for secret spiritual meanings and they twist scripture to suit their beliefs that God is all and all is God, and He certainly is not divine, but humans can be. It is certainly evident that as followers of Christ, we must be on guard to protect our heart, mind, and families against the new age philosophies and practices infiltrating our communities, institutions, corporations, and churches. 2 Timothy 3:1-4 says, “But understand this: In the last days terrible times will come. For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, without love of good, traitorous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.” Be aware of the ungodliness in this world coming in various forms and beliefs. Take everything back to the grid of God’s truths, based on His word. Know His word so clearly so that you recognize the untruths of this world. Much is clothed in subtle deceptiveness that we must carefully seek to uncover and expose for others to see. I will touch on a few more popular teachings and practices that fall into this category in future episodes. 1 Corinthians 3:10-11 says, “By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one must be careful how he builds. For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.” Heavenly Father, our precious, holy God. You alone are omnipotent and righteous. We need You much more than we realize. Please cause the scales to fall from our eyes and enable us to have Your sight. Give us Your ears to hear what the Spirit says so that we may not stray or be led into anything that is against You. Father, we need You. We know that we are easily deceived and fall victim to our flesh and the world. We need Your careful instruction and guidance to safeguard us. May we be mindful of Your word because we read and treasure it in our heart, hold it in our mind, and speak it from lips that please You. Cover and protect us with Your feathers. Shelter us with Your wings. May Your faithful promises be our armor and protection as we choose to follow and obey You. In Your precious name we pray, Amen. Thank you for listening to this podcast. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on ways to Live With Eternal Perspective. Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode 071 Alarming New Age Listen to Episode Welcome to the Terri Hitt – Live With Eternal Perspective Podcast Episode #071 – Alarming New Age Thank you for entrusting and investing your precious time with me to grow in Jesus together. I am blessed to be back with you to discuss more ways to live with eternal perspective. I’ve seen many changes in the world in my lifetime. One of the most alarming trends for me is the indoctrination of ideology contrary to God’s truths. Although a great majority of people profess to be Christians, some don’t realize that the term “Christian,” means, “little Christ.” In fact, the term supposedly originated with pagans in Antioch because they could very clearly see a difference in the lifestyles of those following and emulating Jesus. Without the full understanding that to be called a Christian, one must have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior because of the work He did on the cross to redeem us from sin, and that afterward we live with the faithful duty to seek Him and allow Him to transform our life to reflect His, many continue to live in ignorance or rebellion. Sadly, sometimes even after some have professed Jesus as Savior, their life remains unchanged visibly and without proper discipleship, they are deceived by the culture and fleshly desires of self. Romans 5:6-8 says, “For at just the right time, while we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Some may profess to be a Christian simply because they believe there is a God, not because they have experienced the life-changing power of the Holy Spirit at work within them. That is a sad and scary statement. Simply believing there is a God or attending church does not make a person a follower of Christ. Ephesians 4:18 says, “They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts.” Despite the fact that many people claim and believe themselves to be Christians, a growing number of people also claim no religion and instead follow a “new age movement” that began spreading wider in the 70’s and 80’s, and seems to be growing a somewhat larger following now. Even people who profess to be followers of Jesus practice some form of new age fundamentals, many without realizing it. It may be argued that if “religion” can be defined as something a person believes in and follows devotedly, the new age movement can be explained as a type of religion. Honestly, following your flesh could be defined in the same way, which is essentially what this movement does. It could be argued that the foundation of what this belief system focuses on is self-awareness, heightening personal feelings and pride, and believing themselves able to attain equality with God. Unfortunately, a person can purposely choose to follow this sort of lifestyle or easily follow it without intending to, by not purposely choosing to make each moment count for Christ. The truth is that there are only two religions: follow Christ or self. Just as we read in Genesis 3:4-5, “The serpent said to the woman, “You surely will not die! For God knows that in the day you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” The lies of the new age movement remind me of the beginning in Genesis with twisted deception and the prideful sin of humanity. God’s word teaches us that feelings cannot be trusted. No matter what we think or how we feel, truth can only be found when we seek and follow God’s truths. Our omnipotent God is the compass on which we should process and discern good and evil, right or wrong, no matter what our pride or emotions cause us to feel. Self-love and self-actualization have become pedestals to idolatry in our culture. New age ideology is penetrating the minds of Christians and non-believers, as well as educational institutions and churches. Although the idea of loving yourself and reaching your full potential can be made to sound harmless, worthy, and needed, we must remember that the Bible teaches that every single person has inherent value because we were planned for and made in the image of God. Our Heavenly Father is also very clear that without Him, and His holiness, we are completely sinful. We only have the ability to love because He first loved us. The Creator of love instills and completes perfect love that casts out fear in us. Once we follow Him through the sacrifice of Jesus, we are fully able to find our true potential as the One who planned, made, and completes us is free to work through our submission. How has the church of all places, the ground that should be holy and alive for those who follow Jesus, been deceived into subtly proclaiming belief in or practicing concepts from the new age movement that clearly offend and go against what God has chosen for us? In fact, God has clearly instructed and warned us to stay far from it. Belief in psychics, reincarnation, astrology, and communication with the deceased are just a bit of what has subtly been twisted into what is becoming part of everyday routines for many, even some of whom claim to follow the Lord. A life of devotion for Christ is one that seeks Him first, dies to self - moment by moment, and follows Him, even when the cost of obedience is high. Personal transformation through Christ is completely different that the personal transformation of one who seeks to follow self and heightened personal enlightenment. Claiming our personal glory over what Jesus has sacrificed for us happens in subtle ways daily, even when we already feel we love Jesus with a whole heart. Carefully sift what the world offers through the filter of God’s guidelines and guardrails. New age mysticism is evil and demonic at the core. Surprisingly, there are many who fall victim to subtle branches of the following: meditation, reincarnation, astrology, psychics, and the belief that spiritual energy can reside in rivers, trees, or mountains. Any practice can become warped; we must carefully and biblically discern what occupies our time. Anyone who believes that people, who were created by God, have the ability to make their own choice about who or what God is or how we can worship Him, as the new age movement believes, is wrong. Do not be deceived. God gives us the opportunity to choose whether to believe in Him, but if we make the choice to follow Him through Jesus, the Bible, (God’s authoritative and holy word) makes everything clear. We are not equal to God; we are not even close. As Jesus said in Luke 23:34a, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” But we should know. We need to know. We have to pay attention. Those who follow and practice beliefs taught by the new age movement believe in a holistic form of divinity that penetrates the universe and creatures. This way of thinking strengthens their thought that a supreme spiritual self may be obtained, forming a type of self-religion, and explores the belief that there partially divine, non-human forms, such as angels that may be communicated with through channeling. Although, they reject traditional forms of religion, they admit to accepting “spirituality.” Main ideals of this professed spirituality seem to be what they believe to be “better,” ideals of emerging humanity, and include trends, or belief systems which include social change, the occult, which focuses on channeling and contact with spirits, (and we know God clearly instructs us to stay away from this), and a middle ground that desires a sort of individual development focusing on both. What I have touched on are very limited explanations into this belief system. I do not wish to linger explaining because we know that the Bible clearly instructs us to stay away from these practices. As with many topics, it is a slippery slope when we stray from the word and expectations of the Lord. Communicating with spirits and pushing self-reliance and spiritual awakenings apart from God leads to confusion, corruption, and chaos in our lives. Psalm 119: 133 says, “Direct my footsteps according to Your word; let no sin rule over me.” John 8:12 says, “Once again, Jesus spoke to the people and said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.” While many who do not know Jesus think that following Christ is restrictive or that God wouldn’t authorize only one way to Him, His word proves that our Heavenly Father loves us enough to provide one clear path to Him. Contrary to the opinion that life under the direction and authority of Jesus is demanding or strict, Christ offers freedom and realizations far deeper and greater than anything we can find by ourselves or in this temporary home. Mark 13:22-23 says, “For false Christs and false prophets will arise, and will show signs and wonders, in order to lead astray, if possible, the elect. But take heed; behold, I have told you everything in advance.” Anything that leads to practices or habits that are rooted in religions or ceremonies that heighten self-glorification and strip God from His rightful place have no place in the life of a follower of Christ. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted over the earth.” Remember that you do not have to be a follower of the new age movement to be deceived by practices that lead away from God. There are several, but I will list a couple of them here. Please carefully research these that I mention for yourself and prayerfully make your own decision about what you will allow in your life. I am not an expert and I have myself and my own family to protect and watch over, but I love Jesus and I care about the listeners God has sent to this podcast. I want to boldly walk where I feel He is calling. I would be remiss if I did not mention these in this episode as I believe the roots of these seemingly innocent practices are very dangerous. Over the years, transcendental meditation has been allowed in some public schools. Those educational institutions use this practice with students who need extra help calming down at school. Did you know that transcendental meditation was introduced to the western world as a scientific way to reduce stress and find peace within self? That should alert and caution us. Anything that seeks to perform an act within us that relies on self over God should prick our attention. Although this form of meditation is said to provide medicinal benefits and is supposedly used as a way to relax, the fundamentals of Hinduism are rooted in its approach. Instead of attaining a consciousness of God, and seeking and believing on Him to perform a work within us, transcendental meditation calls for a person to cleanse and empty their mind to obtain a state of consciousness called unity. As a person follows this practice, they see that a ceremony is performed that worships Hindu deities and offers sacrifices to them. After this ceremony, the person involved receives a personal mantra to meditate upon that is supposed to be used as a weapon to ward of reasoning, thinking, and conceptualization. The mantra is actually a group of sounds to be repeated over and over to draw the mind to a specific level of essentialism and as it is uttered, the mantra is supposed to invoke spirits from the spirit world. There is much more information about this topic, but followers of Christ should stay very far away from anything that has these evil roots and practices that so clearly go against what God instructs. Philippians 4:8 says, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things.” God never calls us to completely clear our mind to think of ways to elevate our own consciousness and self-awareness. In fact, God calls us to fill our mind with Him and to meditate on His truths. Joshua 1:8 says, “This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in all you do.” Psalm 10:4 says, “In his pride the wicked man does not seek Him; in all his schemes there is no God.” Leviticus 19:31 says, “You must not turn to mediums or spiritists; do not seek them out, or you will be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God.” We do not need to chant mantras to be used as weapons. We have the truth and instructions of God to protect us. Ephesians 6:10-17 says, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore take up the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you will be able to stand your ground, and having done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness arrayed, and with your feet fitted with the readiness of the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” I know this next one will be a sensitive topic to many. Even yoga, which is practiced by many who love God, is said to be united with eastern metaphysics. In a very basic definition, this means that there is no separation between the physical world and the unseen. However, although many people innocently begin yoga as a way to relieve stress and muscle aches, every subtle action in yoga was created to be a prayer to the Hindu gods. Each tiny movement is a gentle symbol designed to speak to spirits and reach a state of union with God. In practical words, when a person practices yoga, they are unknowingly participating in a Hindu ritual. I understand that many people find relief and mobility through the practice of yoga. As I stated earlier, I am not an expert, but I have heard enough about it that I urge you to research for yourself and see what you find or what alternatives are available for you, if you desire to find them. As I close this podcast, remember that new age practices believe that personal transformation will take place after a human being recognizes his oneness with all things. New age beliefs teach people how to find their own values. They do not look to scripture or even parents, (if a student is studying the new age beliefs), because they practice the belief that there are no absolute truths or values (which is back to the moral relativity we discussed a few podcast episodes ago). People are free to discover and create their own values within themselves. Humans are also free to create their own reality through mindfulness practices that are even taught in seminars, public schools, in children’s programs, and at churches and in trainings for corporations. New agers believe that the Bible is to be read by looking for secret spiritual meanings and they twist scripture to suit their beliefs that God is all and all is God, and He certainly is not divine, but humans can be. It is certainly evident that as followers of Christ, we must be on guard to protect our heart, mind, and families against the new age philosophies and practices infiltrating our communities, institutions, corporations, and churches. 2 Timothy 3:1-4 says, “But understand this: In the last days terrible times will come. For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, without love of good, traitorous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.” Be aware of the ungodliness in this world coming in various forms and beliefs. Take everything back to the grid of God’s truths, based on His word. Know His word so clearly so that you recognize the untruths of this world. Much is clothed in subtle deceptiveness that we must carefully seek to uncover and expose for others to see. I will touch on a few more popular teachings and practices that fall into this category in future episodes. 1 Corinthians 3:10-11 says, “By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one must be careful how he builds. For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.” Heavenly Father, our precious, holy God. You alone are omnipotent and righteous. We need You much more than we realize. Please cause the scales to fall from our eyes and enable us to have Your sight. Give us Your ears to hear what the Spirit says so that we may not stray or be led into anything that is against You. Father, we need You. We know that we are easily deceived and fall victim to our flesh and the world. We need Your careful instruction and guidance to safeguard us. May we be mindful of Your word because we read and treasure it in our heart, hold it in our mind, and speak it from lips that please You. Cover and protect us with Your feathers. Shelter us with Your wings. May Your faithful promises be our armor and protection as we choose to follow and obey You. In Your precious name we pray, Amen. Thank you for listening to this podcast. Please visit terrihitt.com to access podcast episodes housed in one convenient location, read blog posts, transcripts, and access additional resources designed to mature your walk with Jesus through an eternal perspective and encourage you to raise or influence children to choose Christ over culture. I pray this podcast draws you nearer to God and helps you cling to Him, despite any circumstances in your life. Until next week, keep looking Up while focusing on ways to Live With Eternal Perspective.