A different kind of light: Teaching your kids how to shine like the Moon
When we hear the term radiant light or shining for Jesus we think of a light that’s so bright you’d have to shield your eyes from its glare, we think of the sun. Well what about the moon? I’ve decided I want my kids to shine like the moon!
Shine like the moon?
One evening while driving down a dark road, we took notice of the moon. Darkness covered the sky, but the moon shone bright. In fact, it shone so bright there was a hazy glow around it. “That! That’s what it looks like to shine for Jesus!” I said to my kids. We should emit a light that makes people curious. A light that cuts through the darkness, and doesn’t try to fit in to the darkness around it.
What I’m teaching
Versus & the lessons I’m teaching from them
The reality is we do have to go out into the word, not just be little lights shining around other little lights. So, let’s make an effort to share our light with others who need their way lit.
- Matthew 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
We have no reason to fear the “darkness”; we need to begin seeing it differently. Rather than shutting ourselves in for fear, as if someone was going to get their sin all over us, we should embrace the opportunity to speak about Jesus and salvation. If we stand firm, with God as our foundation, we will not be easily shaken. They need to learn that’s it’s totally possible to stand firm in their convictions without giving into the temptations around them.
- John 1:5 The light shines in the darkness,and the darkness can never extinguish it
I have to make more of an effort to remind my children (and myself) that going into the world is what we’re called to do, it’s what Jesus did. I try to shield them from so much that I think I may have instilled a hesitant attitude in them.
- Mark 16:15 He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation”.
Now as a mama, I’ll never give up the healthy fear I have for my children. Obviously, there’s a lot I’m not ready to open them up to, but I have to be willing to accept God at his word.
- Psalm 27: 1 the Lord is my light and salvation-whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life-of whom shall I be afraid.
Opportunities I used to help them shine for Jesus
- Helping folks who may be struggling with their groceries in the parking lot
- Encouraged them to share their snacks with a woman on the street who was in need of a hand up
- Holding the door for others, even if it meant they had to wait longer than expected for someone to get to the door
All of these should be followed by a “have a blessed day” or “God bless you”. I want my children to become comfortable in saying Jesus’ name to people they’re not even sure have heard the name of Jesus. My prayer is that these little baby steps will embolden their hearts and loosen their lips to let the name of Jesus fall out.
I hope you remember this lesson the next time you’re looking up at the moon with your children, that this vision of the moon shining in the darkness will the perfect opportunity for you to speak about the lights we should all be.
Please, share with me! I’d love to hear how your encouraging your kids to step out in faith…comment below!
For more encouragement, check out some of these wonderful posts by Christian women striving and working out their faith!
16 Comments
Love, love, love this! We are to be a reflection of Jesus, the one true light.
Oh Heather, thank you!
I love the lessons here. I love that you teach your children to follow it with “have a blessed day” or “God bless you.” I am going to try and incorporate that into my language. Thank you for the tips.
Thanks! I want the kids to understand that our actions can glorify God and by serving others were are serving Him. Also, any opportunity that we have to open a door to talk about Jesus is great! Thank you so much for stopping by, and I pray your able to incorporate these.
Great message…Shine the light of Jesus!
Thanks Jessica, it really is important to get the kids in the habit of sharing Jesus, there are so many who need it.
This is so lovely and so important. I always appreciate the advice/tips/stories of other parents in training up the children. We want them to be properly armored up out there in the world and reflecting the light of Jesus every where they go, so any nuggets of wisdom I gladly welcome. Thanks so much!
Marquita, I feel the same way, I love to hear what other parents are doing, it’s the best way to learn and gain new perspective. I’m so happy you could find something new here. Thanks for taking time to read!
Love this. It’s important to teach kids to help other people. Parents can shape the society of the future and a little bit more good vibes, gratitude and compassion is needed!
Nadine, I totally agree, we’re raising the future! What an amazing opportunity!
Aww this is so perfect and definitely something I need to keep in mind as I’m raising our two girls!
Lauren, it would be such an honor if this was something you used in the future. I truly enjoy sharing what I learn and how my mind works. That’s what I want for this cozy corner of the internet. Thank you for taking time with me here.
This is lovely. Some really great lessons there!
Thanks Kristy!
This is fantastic! Yes, we need to teach our kids, and ourselves, not to be afraid and to boldly share their love of Christ with others.
It’s so true, especially in these days. I think we as Christians are becoming too meak, almost afraid to speak up. I want to be bold, and teach them to be also!