MENTORING FOR GOD’S KINGDOM PURPOSES
It’s “Back to School” time! Here are two character traits to consider for the months of August/September:
RESPECT
“Honor your mother and father so that you days may be long in the land the Lord God is giving you.” Exodus 20:12
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” Luke 6:31
RESPONSIBILITY
“I desire to do your will, oh my God; your law is within my heart.” Psalm 40:8
“When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it. He has no pleasure in fools, fulfill your vow. IT is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it.” Ecclesiastes 5:4-5
This is how you can approach the mentoring time with children throughout the month:
- Give an age appropriate definition of the character trait. Ask the child to describe the trait in his or her own words to ensure understanding.
- Monthly memorization. Depending on the age of the child, select one or two scriptures to accompany the character trait. Memorize the scripture with the child by repeating it aloud daily.
The character trait, definition, and scripture(s) can be reviewed and reinforced throughout the month. Some examples to consider:
- Read the whole Bible chapter with the child so she can understand the scripture in proper context.
- Share a Bible story where the character trait is practiced.
- Share a current event or recent experience where the child may have observed the character trait.
- Praising the child when he displays the character trait.
If your school does not provide monthly character traits, I encourage you to consider the Godly characteristics that you would like to instill in the child, and then develop your own traits. Once you develop the trait, select one or two scriptures to accompany the trait to focus teaching and development for the month.
Sharing the truth of God’s Word and encouraging the discipline of memorizing scripture is just one way we can mentor children for God’s kingdom purposes. What are some other ways that we can mentor children?
Blessings, Natasha
A SISTA'S JOURNEY 