How to Live Life With Wide Open Generosity

How to Live Life With Wide Open Generosity

The following are my Bible study notes based on my pastor's sermon titled Wide Open Generosity.  You are invited to watch, listen, and worship with us here.

Generosity is more about what God wants for us than what God wants from us.

William Borden owned Borden Diary.  He was wealthy as a young man.  He grew up under R.A Tory.  Borden traveled the world.  He had a heart for people.  Borden once went back to Yale University to meet with two men.  They would pray together.  This group eventually grew to over 1000 people.  Eventually Borden would sale to China but he first stopped in Egypt to study Arabic.  He wanted to minister to Muslims.  While in Egypt, Borden became ill with spinal meningitis.  He died one month later.  He was only 25 years old.  Before his death, he had penned three words:  No reserve, no retreats, no regrets.  In his young years, Borden lived his life in wide open generosity.  I know I'm leaving out so much information about William Borden's life.  Please learn more about this man who was sold out to Christ here.

Ho do we live our lives with wide open generosity?

1.  Believe God to do the Impossibly.

God told Sarah that she would have a baby in her old age.  

And by faith even Sarah, who was past childbearing age, was enabled to bear children because she considered him faithful who had made the promise. And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore. - Hebrews 11:11-12

Is anything too hard for the Lord? I will return to you at the appointed time next year, and Sarah will have a son. - Genesis 18:14

We never need to lose hope. We must trust God. By faith, Sarah conceived. God is always faithful. He always keeps his promises.

And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore. And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore. - Hebrews 11:12

God doesn't call us to religion. He calls us to relationship.

2.  Be willing to sacrifice in a significant way.  

A faith that cannot be tested cannot be trusted.

In Genesis 22, Abraham's faith was tested.  Who did Abraham love more, the blessing or the blesser?  He loved the blesser.

We must love our blesser.

Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me." - Matthew 16:24

We must be willing to let go of anything that does not honor God.  Let go of anything you love more than God.

3. Be assured that God keeps His promises.

After this, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision:  “Do not be afraid, Abram.  I am your shield, your very great reward, your very great reward. - Genesis 15:1

 Abraham was afraid.  He struggles with fear and doubt.

But Abram said, “Sovereign Lord, what can you give me since I remain childless and the one who will inherit my estate is Eliezer of Damascus?” And Abram said, “You have given me no children; so a servant in my household will be my heir.”

Then the word of the Lord came to him: “This man will not be your heir, but a son who is your own flesh and blood will be your heir.” He took him outside and said, “Look up at the sky and count the stars—if indeed you can count them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” - Genesis 15:2-5

The stars and the sand cannot be counted, yet when Abraham considered the stars, he considered you.

God is ready to assume full responsibility for the life wholly devoted to Him.

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How to Live Life With Wide Open Generosity

Jax's Tail Twitches by David Powlison

 Jax's Tail Twitches

Jax's Tail Twitches is part of the Good News for Little Hearts series.  Each story in the series focuses on a real-life issue while entertaining children with cute animal stories of hope.  Jax's Tail Twitches is written to help children deal with anger.  Jax's tail twitches when he gets angry.

Jax's family is a family of squirrels living in their own tree.  It's time to gather acorns for winter, so the whole family needs to help.  

The day begins with Jax and his brother, Caspian, racing to the kitchen for breakfast.  Jax becomes angry at Caspian for tripping him so that he can beat Jax to the kitchen.  

Later on, while the family gathers the acorns from their tree, another squirrel family, the McNuffles, shows up and begins gathering acorns from Jax's family's tree.  Papa Squirrel doesn't want to share his acorns with the McNuffles because the rule book says that each squirrel family must gather acorns from their own family tree.  

While Papa and Mr. McNuffle argue over sharing acorns, Jax and Caspian race about.  Baby Jolie takes a leap and lands in Papa Squirrel's acorn bag, scattering the acorns all around.  Then Mama Squirrel remembers that her dinner is burning.  

When Jax's family returns to their nest home, they are all angry for different reasons. Jax realizes that they are all angry because they didn't get what they wanted.  

Jax's Tail Twitches by David Powlison

Jax's family members agree that they are all angry over selfish reasons.  Papa Squirrel reminds his family that the Great Book says that anger does not produce the right and good life God wants us to have.  They all agree that they acted in ways that were not right and they need God to help them with their anger.  They need Jesus to forgive them and show them each where they were wrong.  Then, they bowed their heads to pray.

The story wraps up when both squirrel families meet again at the bottom of the tree to finish gathering food for the winter.  They admit to each other where they were wrong and they all ask for forgiveness.  Then, they share a meal and food for the winter.

Jax's Tail Twitches is a sweet story that teaches children that we all get angry from time to time, but when we do get angry, it is important to ask God to show us any place where we are wrong.  Then, we need to ask for forgiveness both from God and from the person we might have wronged in our anger.  

The back of the book offers two helpful resources for helping families help their children with anger.  There is a section called "Helping Your Child with Anger."  This section has 9 points of advice for parents to help them help their children with anger.  

Jax's Tail Twitches by David Powlison

At the very end of the book, there is a section of pocket Bible verse cards that children can cut out and carry in their pockets.  When they feel angry, they can pull the cards from their pocket and read them for encouragement through times of trouble when they might feel angry.

Jax's Tail Twitches by David Powlison

You can get your copy of Jax's Tail Twitches here.

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Jax's Tail Twitches by David Powlison

Zoe's Hiding Place by David Powlison

Zoe's Hiding Place by David Powlison

Tucked underneath her purple patchwork quilt, Zoe feels safe.  There she is in a place where she has no worries.  Zoe is safe and cozy under her patchwork quilt, Zoe's hiding place.  When Zoe jumps out of bed and is no longer under her quilt, she doesn't always feel so safe.

 The story opens up with a Bible verse:

God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. - Psalm 46:1

On this particular day, Zoe learns that her class has been invited back to the Mulberry Meadow Art Museum.  The last time her class visited the museum, Zoe had a bad experience, so she was not excited about the upcoming field trip.  In fact, Zoe is afraid to go again.  On her way home that afternoon, Zoe's mind was filled with fear and worry.  As soon as Zoe returned home, she went immediately to her room to get into her hiding place underneath her cozy patchwork quilt.  

Zoe's mind was filled with fear and worry.

Zoe's mom explains to Zoe that worry wants her to believe that she is all alone and that God isn't with her to protect her.  Zoe's mom explains to Zoe that Jesus is always with her.  Jesus cares for her.  Zoe's mom shares a verse from the Great Book with Zoe that says God is your refuge, a safe place from trouble and fear.  Zoe decides that God reminds her of her cozy purple patchwork quilt.  Zoe's mom shares another verse from the Great Book and then tells Zoe to turn each fear into a prayer. 

The next morning, Zoe's dad gives her a handwritten note that says, "The Lord is near.  Do not be anxious."  He tells Zoe to pull out the note and read it when she feels afraid.

Zoe learns that God will keep her safe.

Zoe's second experience at the Mulberry Art Museum is not exactly uneventful, but this time around, Zoe's parents have shared the truth with her to help her navigate troublesome experiences that can result in fear and anxiety.  

At the end of the story, there is a section for parents.  In this section of the book, parents are given 10 points for helping children with anxiety.  Each point gives good advice for parents and children.  

Helping Your Child with Anxiety

At the very end of Zoe's Hiding Place, you'll find pocket Bible verses.  These pages can be cut out of the book so that your child can carry the pocket Bible verses with him or her wherever he or she goes.  Your child can carry the cards in a jacket pocket, pants pocket, or purse so that he or she can pull out the Bible verse cards to read them when he or she feel afraid or anxious.

Pocket Bible Verses

Now, let me tell you a few things about the illustrations.  This book is illustrated by Joe Hox.  The illustrations are so cute!  The pages are colorful and very appealing to the eye.  Your child might enjoy finding everyday objects that decorate Zoe's house. For example, I noticed a cola bottle cap and tabs were used to make a nightstand.  Zoe's bed frame is made from pencils and a comb.  There is a postage stamp on the wall for wall decor.  Buttons and game pieces adorn the kitchen, while the table is made from a jar lid and wooden clothespins. 

Zoe's Hiding Place is a well-illustrated, good Scripture-based story for helping children deal with fear and anxiety.  I think it will help adults too.

Zoe's Hiding Place is written by David Powlison.  It is part of the Good News for Little Hearts Series.

Get your copy here!

You might also like:  Jax's Tail Twitches 

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Zoe's Hiding Place

Discipling Generosity - Reflecting the Heart of God

Discipling Generosity

Generosity is more about what God wants for you than from you.  This is a phrase we've been saying a lot at our church as we have been studying the topic of generosity.  Today, we are talking about discipling generosity.  

The following are my Bible study notes based on my pastor's sermon.  You are invited to watch, listen, and worship with us here.

 

 

Generosity is an invitation and an opportunity.  Don't miss out.

Remember when you were a child, and your teacher gave you a pot and a seed.  It was time for you to learn how to plant seeds and grow plants.  You planted the seed.  Then you nurtured the seed and waited patiently for a sprout.  Then you nurtured the sprout.  Finally, the sprout became a nice plant, and you thought, "Wow, look what I did!  The truth is that the seed was not yours.  Your teacher gave you the seeds.  You reaped the harvest of a seed that didn't belong to you.  This is an example, a picture of the generosity of God.

In the beginning, God created everything in a generous act of love.

Then God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the surface of all the earth, and every tree which has fruit yielding seed; it shall be food for you. - Genesis 1:29

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God created things to exist and the potential for everything else to exist. The seeds of His creation were an entire orchard waiting to bloom.

In 2 Corinthians, Paul is challenging the church at Corinth to excel in generosity.

Therefore I urge you to reaffirm your love for him. ⁹ For to this end I also wrote, so that I might put you to the test, whether you are obedient in all things. - 2 Corinthians 2:8-9

Generosity is part of discipleship, growing in godliness.  When we are generous, we are reflecting the heart of God.

2 Ways Paul is Discipling Generosity

1.  See generosity as a seed to sow.

Now I say this: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows generously will also reap generously. - 2 Corinthians 9:6

We reap in proportion to what we sow.  Sow a little.  Get little.  So a lot.  Get a lot.  We cannot expect to reap a harvest in places where we have sown no seeds.  We reap what we sow.

Each one must do just as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. - 2 Corinthians 9:7

The heart is central to the practice of generosity. Grateful hearts give willingly.  It is a response of love.  You can give without loving but you can never love without giving. This sowing and reaping is true for spiritual things as well as it is for material things.

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a person sows, this he will also reap. ⁸ For the one who sows to his own flesh will reap destruction from the flesh, but the one who sows to the Spirit will reap eternal life from the Spirit. - Galatians 6:7-8

The seed and the harvest belong to God.

Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness; ¹¹ you will be enriched in everything for all liberality, which through us is producing thanksgiving to God. - 2 Corinthians 9:10-11

 God is owner.  We are manager.  God is supplier.  We are distributor.

 

Generosity looks like two open hands, one to receive and one to give.  

 

Sowing seed brings more seeds to sow.  God never runs out of generosity.

 

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2.  See generosity as a ministry to serve.

For the ministry of this service is not only fully supplying the needs of the saints, but is also overflowing through many thanksgivings to God. - 2 Corinthians 9:12

Generosity is more than money.  It's ministry.  Generosity is reflecting and revealing God's heart to others. 

Because of the proof given by this ministry, they will glorify God for your obedience to your confession of the gospel of Christ and for the liberality of your contribution to them and to all. - 2 Corinthians 9:13

Generosity invokes worship.

While they also, by prayer on your behalf, yearn for you because of the surpassing grace of God in you. - 2 Corinthians 9:14

Discipleship is the process of becoming more like Jesus.

Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift! - 2 Corinthians 9:15

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Discipling Generosity

https://unsplash.com/photos/LxuPuEX6t-c 

Your wedding ring is one of the most valuable and important purchases that you and your husband will ever make. Therefore, it is important that you put in a lot of forethought when it comes to determining which ring is right for you.

The Full Guide to Buying a Wedding Ring, Including Custom Design!

First and foremost, before you begin to search you and your fiancé need to determine a budget for your wedding rings. After all, you need to ensure that you buy something which you can comfortably afford, and by being strict with yourself with a budget you ensure that you do not go over your limit.

If you cannot afford your own ring at the moment, why not make a special piece of jewelry that you can wear until you can get a wedding ring? There are jewelry making kits that simple require cutters, crafting glue guns, and a few extras, and it means so much more when you’ve made something together, right?

If you have got the budget for your wedding rings, you also need to make sure that you find a good jeweler. After all, a wedding ring is something whereby quality cannot be compromised and thus you need to opt for the best.

In order to determine whether a jeweler is a good one or not, you should seek to discover if they have any certification. In addition to this, you should also read the reviews that have been left by previous customers in order to determine whether the majority of people have been happy with their purchase or not.

Once you have covered these two aspects you should then consider the latest trends in wedding bands. After all, you do not want to be wearing something which is considered unstylish and dated.

At the moment it is a case of the more bling the better. So going for a wedding band that is encrusted in lots of diamonds is always a desirable option. Moreover, this is certainly a fashion trend which is here to stay, because let’s face it; who doesn’t love diamonds?

In addition to this, another trend which is highly popular and very touching is to get your wedding band engraved on the inside. You can do something traditional like get the date engraved. Alternatively, you can opt for something more contemporary and get a symbol or a phrase that means something to you and your partner. Obviously, you can’t go for anything which is too long because it will take up too much room.

Aside from contemplating the current trends, you need to make sure that your wedding ring matches your engagement ring. You may fall in love with a certain wedding band, but if it clashes with your engagement ring then it is going to look distasteful.

This does not mean that you have to go for two metals that are exactly the same. You just need to go for something which blends well, rather than being completely contrasting i.e. like silver and gold.

Custom made wedding rings ensure that you have something which is unique to you

Finding the perfect wedding ring can be a difficult challenge. After all, it is something which you will wear proudly on your hand for the rest of your life and so it needs to be something that possesses a timeless beauty and is of high quality. Moreover, it is a substantial investment and not something which can really be changed a few months down the line if you decide you want something else.

There are some fantastic wedding rings available in all of the stores selling jewelry, as well as off of the internet today. This can make it hard to narrow down your search to just one wedding band. Nevertheless, a better idea is to get your ring custom made rather than seeking one which is already available in store.

If you go for a bespoke wedding ring then you can ensure that your ring is unique to you. Nobody else will have it, and something which is one of a kind symbolizes a really special piece of jewelry. This also means that you have a license to incorporate any trends that you like within the ring. In fact, you can also have something designed which is unique to you.

The best thing to do is browse the internet and have a look at some celebrity and designer wedding rings in order to gain some inspiration for ideas. Moreover, if there is something special to the both of you or that represents your relationship, then you can try and include a symbolization of this in your ring too. This truly is the best way to give a special and unique representation of your love through your wedding band.

In addition to the unique and one of a kind quality attributed to bespoke wedding bands, another benefit associated with this option is that you will be able to get a ring that perfectly suits your finger. There is nothing more disappointing than visiting a jeweler, falling in love with a ring, only to find that you cannot get one which fits on your finger properly.

Furthermore, you will be able to ensure that you select a high-quality diamond for your ring. In order to determine whether a diamond is good or not, you should consider carats, color, clarity, and cut.

When you are seeking a custom made service it is important to bear in mind the fact that you will need to give yourself a lot of time. After all, this is a service that is intricate and requires patience from your part as well as the company, as no rash decisions should be made. You need to make sure you are 100% happy with the design before the making process takes place.

And finally, you need to ensure that you opt for a top-quality jewelry company. After all, this is a service which requires the best professionals so that you are left more than satisfied with your wedding ring.

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The Full Guide to Buying a Wedding Ring, Including Custom Design! 

How to Love Generous Living

How to Love Generous Living

We have been talking a lot lately about generous living.  Today at church, we are talking about learning to love living generously.  Our focal passage for today is in 1 Timothy.

For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

¹¹ But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness. ¹² Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called, and for which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. ¹³ I direct you in the presence of God, who gives life to all things, and of Christ Jesus, who testified the good confession before Pontius Pilate, ¹⁴ that you keep the commandment without fault or reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, ¹⁵ which He will bring about at the proper time—He who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, ¹⁶ who alone possesses immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To Him be honor and eternal dominion! Amen.

¹⁷ Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to set their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. - 1 Timothy 6:10-17

The following are my Bible study notes based on my pastor's sermon.  You are invited to watch, listen, and worship with us here. 

How to Love Generous Living

Loving generosity will protect you from the love of money, which causes people to wander away from their faith.  

A generous person will be prosperous,
And one who gives others plenty of water will himself be given plenty. - Proverbs 11:25

One who is generous will be blessed,
Because he gives some of his food to the poor. - Proverbs 22:9

Generosity invites God's blessings into your life. It is more about what God wants for you than what He wants from you.  

The world is passing away and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God continues to live forever. - 1 John 2:17

How to Love Generous Living

1.  We need a spiritual understanding.  

Money is temporary.  It is not permanent.  

As he came naked from his mother’s womb, so he will return as he came. He will take nothing from the fruit of his labor that he can carry in his hand. This also is a sickening evil: exactly as a person is born, so will he die. What then is the advantage for him who labors for the wind? - Ecclesiastes 5:15-16

When you set your eyes on it, it is gone.
For wealth certainly makes itself wings
Like an eagle that flies toward the heavens. - Proverbs 23:5

Money is not certain.  Only God and His Word are absolute. 

Money is not satisfying.  When we have a little money, we tend to want more.

The love of money will never cure the greed in a person's heart.

2.  We need a personal understanding.

Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to set their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. - 1 Timothy 6:17

God wants you to enjoy what He has given you.

God wants us to share with others.

 Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share. - 1 Timothy 6:18

Tithing is Biblical.

Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house, and put Me to the test now in this,” says the Lord of armies, “if I do not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you a blessing until it overflows. - Malachi 3:10

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Tithing is more than a law.  It's about love.  Tithing is not commanded in the New Testament.  In the Old Testament, it was law.  In the New Testament, it's about grace and loving others.

Tithing is the best way to love generous living.

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. - Matthew 6:21

Trusting God repositions your heart.

How to Love Generous Living

Easter 2021 is April 4th.  It will be here soon so you'll want to visit these amazing blogs to check out all their great ideas for East activities for kids.  Then, gather your materials so that you can plan your family's Easter celebration.  Be sure to check them all out.  You'll find fun activities, science activities, and a whole list of activities for keeping your family's Easter celebration Christ centered.  It's important for children to learn early the real reason we celebrate Easter which is the resurrection of Christ Jesus.  OK, so go check out these ideas and have an amazing Easter with your family.

Easter Activities for Kids - Roundup 2021

Easter Activities for Kids - Roundup 2021

 1.  Make an Easter bunny wafer house.  It's a spin off of the Christmas gingerbread houses.  This one at Passion for Savings is so cute.

2.  Whip up a batch of Easter eggs-ercises.  Get the kids up and moving with bunny hops, ninja kicks, and more.  Check these out at The Seasoned Mom.

3.  Make Peeps Playdough.  Use only three simple ingredients and the playdough is edible.  Check out the recipe and instructions at 123Homeschool4Me.

4.  Bingo is a popular game for kids and families.  There are Bingo printables available for almost every holiday throughout the year.  Check out these Easter Bingo cards at Crayons and Cravings. 

5.  Check out these super cute painted Easter rocks at Projects with Kids.  Then, grab some smooth Easter shaped river rocks and paint them beautiful. 

This Easter Bingo Game for Kids is available here.

6.  Toddler science experiments are so much fun.  Susie at Busy Toddler says her kids have a blast with this fun Easter science activity.  Check it out and plan some Easter science fun with your kids.

7.  Are you looking for a new way to color your Easter eggs?  Try coloring them with shaving cream.  It's messy but so much fun for kids.  Chick out this video on Pinterest from Crafty Morning to learn how to do this activity with your kids.   

8.  Here's another video for you.  Enjoy creating these beautiful salt painted Easter eggs from One Little Project.

9.  Sensory bins are both fun and educational for kids.  Kids can play in them for hours while they learn through tactile play.  Check out these Easter sensory bins from Mandisa over at Happy Toddler Playtime.  Prepare ahead of time so you can have a few Easter sensory bins available for your kids in time for Easter.

10.  Here is a post you do not want to miss.  This is the 10th Easter activity I'm sharing with you but you are getting so much more because Big Family Blessings is sharing 19 Christ Centered Easter activities for families.  Check them all out and plan your Christ centered Easter celebration for your family.

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10 Quick and Easy Valentine's Day Activities for Kids - Roundup 2021

Quick and Easy Valentine's Day Activities for Kids

Valentine's Day is almost here again.  This is the week kids love making all sorts of fun Valentine's Day crafts and doing fun activities.  They can't get enough red and pink paper, dough, paints, and heart shaped fun.  There isn't a lot of time left to prepare but if you work fast, you can round up enough materials for your kids to create all sorts of fun crafts and play fun Valentine's Day games.  I hope this Quick and Easy Valentine's Day Activities For Kids Roundup will help you find the perfect activities for your kids.  Go ahead.  Make those memories!

Quick and Easy Valentine's Day Activities for Kids - Roundup 2021

1.  Go see Brittany at Paper Trail Design to download FREE printable I Spy Valentine sheets.  These printables are great for multiple grade levels.  They are great for home or classroom use.

2.  Head over to Little Bins for Little Hands to choose a Valentine's Day science experiment for your child to do at home.  Your child can learn to make slime,  a homemade lava lamp, dissolve candy, make bubbles, make foam, make heart shape crystals, and more.  They'll learn a little bit about physics and chemistry while they play.

3.  Go see Tam at Active Littles.  Your kids will love this one and so will adults.  Use dry erase markers to create floating hearts.  Look around and find other water experiments to try while you're there.  

4.  Hop over to Pint Sized Treasures and get a fun Valentine's Day scavenger hunt printable.  Choose from two or print them both.  

5.  Now this one is a super cool STEM activity.  Over at Productive Pete, Holly shows us the STEM activity she chose for her child's party.  If you have ever played with Lincoln Logs or anything similar, then you will enjoy this one.  Use craft sticks and candy hearts to build and build and build.  Fun!

This Valentine's Day Bingo Game for kids is available here.

6.  MomsWhoSave.com does more than show you how to save money.  They also show you great things for your kids to do.  Here, they show us a list of 20 Valentine's Day fine motor skills activities.  While you're there, look around and read about how to live well and shop smart.

7.  These stained glass heart sun-catchers are gorgeous!  Learn how to make them at Adventure in a Box.  I want to make these myself.  They are so pretty.

8.  Do you love to play games with your kids?  Heidi over at Happiness is Homemade gives us a list of 30+ fun Valentine games for kids of all ages.  Check them out and plan a fun filled Valentine's Game Day with your family.

9.  Do your kids love to color?  Laura at Sunny Day Family has a free printable for you to download.  Head over there now to get your Valentine Coloring Pages and Activity Sheets for Kids.

10.  Want to add some painting fun to your Valentine's Day plans?  Your preschoolers will enjoy painting on heart shapes with pom poms.  They'll paint fuzzy little circles on to heart shapes.  See how Annette's example turned out at Tips From a Typical Mom.

Well there you have it!  You now have a list of 10 quick and easy Valentine's Day activities for your kids to do in honor of Valentine's Day.  You'll have a lot more than that if you click through to some of the other activities listed on those amazing blogs.  Enjoy your Valentine's Day with your family!  

You might also like:  40 Valentine's Day Books for Young Readers

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Quick and Easy Valentine's Day Activities for Kids

Christian Inspiration for Valentine's Day

UPDATE:  Since this post was first published, the articles have either been removed from the Dayspring website or the links were changed.  However, you can still find a wealth of inspiration from many articles posted by many wonderful Dayspring writers here.

DaySpring Cards and Gifts is one of my favorite affiliate relationships here on the blog.  They provide greeting cards for every occasion throughout the year.  They offer hundreds of great gift ideas for everyone on your gift giving lists from January to December.  Most people know these things but did you know they also provide Christian encouragement and inspiration for all of life's mountaintops and valleys?  They have a team of bloggers who write about topics from the hard stuff of life and also topics of celebration.  They have several Christian focused articles available for Valentine's Day too.  Enjoy these wisdom filled articles of Christian inspiration for Valentine's Day.

Christian Inspiration for Valentine's Day 

A Recipe for Love from Ephesians 4 by Melody

A Recipe for Love from Ephesians 4 via DaySpring Cards and Gifts

Doesn’t it feel like we get so many mixed messages? I mean, what is love, really? Sometimes it feels like it’s all hearts and flowers and heart-shaped candy boxes, oohs-and-ahhs and isn’t-he-so-cute and cartoon princes rescuing damsels in distress and romantic movies with violins swelling as the couples run toward each other in slow motion with arms open wide and… Oh! My. Gracious.

Sometimes it can feel a little superficial, like the recipe for finding and expressing love ranges from sitting idly awaiting our white knight to presenting our loved one an annual box of chocolates. Searching for love can be overwhelming, and expressing love may seem complex.

So, let’s look for a better understanding of love. And let’s go to the source of love—God—and consult the Word for the true “recipe” for expressing love. After all, God is love, so it’s only natural we look to him for love advice.

Let’s start with the beautiful recipe for love in Ephesians 4. It begins by urging for us to walk in the manner in which we have been called—with humility, gentleness and patience, standing together in love, with unity, with peace: Read the full article here.

Peanuts Boxed Valentine Cards and Stickers by Dayspring

Peanuts Boxed Valentine's Day Cards and Stickers by Dayspring

 3 Phrases Every Couple Should Say Daily by Michelle Reyes

3 Phrases Every Couple Should Say Daily via DaySpring Cards and Gifts

But there’s something else from that special day that I will never forget: our pastor’s message. He challenged us to say three phrases to each other daily, and my husband and I have literally been saying these three phrases to each other every day for the past nine years. I cannot tell you what a huge difference this has made in the life, health and stability of our marriage. I highly encourage you to say them to your spouse as well and to see the difference that it makes:  Read the full article here.

3 Ways to Strengthen Your Marriage Today by Rachel Wojo

3Ways to Strengthen Your Marriage Today via DaySpring Cards and Gifts

Whether it’s been 10 weeks or 20 years. But the one thing that has not changed is your desire to have a strong marriage. You really love each other and long to hold to your wedding vows.

No matter how much you crave a strong marriage, evaluating your daily relationship decisions is a wonderful way to build that marriage you desire. Daily routine can easily dictate over your desire for a healthy marriage, but the good news is that you have the power to make your marriage stronger with a few basic actions. Take a look at these 3 way to strengthen your marriage today!  Read the full article here.

The Berenstain Bears Love Their Neighbors

The Berenstain Bears Love Their Neighbors

Bless Your Friends on Valentine's Day by Brittany

Bless Your Friends on Valentine's Day via DaySpring Cards and Gifts

This Valentine’s Day, you have the unique opportunity to share God’s love with your friends—an opportunity that may not present itself in the future. So, why not reach out to your single friends, show them kindness, let them know how much you cherish them, and remind them of all the blessings in their lives? Celebrating with friends allows you to see Valentine's Day in a beautiful new light. Read the full article here.

5 Ways to Express Love by Gary Chapman

5 Ways to Express Love via DaySpring Cards and Gifts

In my early years as a marriage counselor, time and time again, I often noticed that couples would voice similar complaints regarding their marriage. One spouse would say something to the effect of, "I feel like he doesn't love me," as the other spouse would then retort, "I don't know what else to do. I’m doing everything I ought to." Realizing there was a pattern, I scoured through the 12 years’ worth of notes I made while counseling couples and then asked myself the question, "When someone said, 'I feel like my spouse doesn't love me,' what do they want? What are they attempting to communicate?" Remarkably, I found their answers fell into five categories, revealing a unique approach in how to effectively love another person.  Read the full article here.

Finding Loveliness in Every Day by Gini

Finding Loveliness in Every Day via DaySpring Cards and Gifts

Let’s find the beauty in every day. We can train ourselves to look for the sunset, to take the time to delight in that one lone flower standing strong, completely undisturbed by the sub-zero degree weather. Because, “God is love” 1 John 4:8 NIV. So, by filling our hearts with love for all that surrounds us, we are filling our hearts with God. And, let’s face it, there is nothing that can help us through our everyday lives more than His peaceful presence.  Read the full article here.

Perfect Valentine's Gifts for all 5 Love Languages by Amber

Perfect Valentine's Gifts for all 5 Love Languages via DaySpring Cards and Gifts

My husband and I took the 5 Love Languages quiz from the book by Dr. Gary Chapman and we discovered something surprising—our expressions of love to each other have been lost in translation for years. While my husband had assumed his thoughtfully-chosen gifts and tokens of affection were the way to my heart, the love language that most speaks to me is ‘quality time.’ I was sure his love language would be ‘words of affirmation,’ but instead it is ‘acts of service’—so every time I offered a compliment, it didn’t reach his heart in the way I thought it would. Who knew? Now that we’ve figured out our love languages, finding the perfect Valentine's Day gift is far less stressful.

This Valentine’s Day, how can you choose the perfect gift to suit your spouse’s love language? We’ve put together a list of Valentine’s Day gifts for each of the five love languages, so you can show your partner affection in a way that speaks to them.  Read the full article here.

Loving in the Tough Times by Gini

Loving in the Tough Times via DaySpring Cards and Gifts

It’s hard, but we must remember not only to accept love during the tough times, but to also give love. Again, it’s hard, but sometimes all it takes is getting out of bed and asking for a group hug. Because, you see, as Christians, we are called to encourage one another, to lift each other up and to trust that God is in control of every situation. So, take a deep breath and ask God to fill your heart with His love as you face the difficult days ahead, remember to accept love and encouragement from your friends and family, and don’t forget to love them in return.  Read the full article here.

The Berenstain Bears Valentine Blessings

The Berenstain Bears Valentine Blessings

6 Ways to Show Love This Year by Amber

6 Ways to Show Love This Year via DaySpring Cards and Gifts

God loves everyone—and He calls us to do the same selflessly, without expectation of something in return. Love is given utmost importance in His Word. We are expected to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind—and to love our neighbor, too. What is love? The ‘Love Verse’ at 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 is an oft-quoted Scripture that reminds us love is patient and kind; not envious, boastful, or full of pride. How can we apply this in 2021?  Read the full article here.

Think Lovely Thoughts by Gini

Think Lovely Thoughts via DaySpring Cards and Gifts

This Valentine’s Day, we invite you to change the way you think—not just during this holiday season, but every day of your life. We invite you to take every opportunity to celebrate His love. Maybe this means forgiving the driver who just cut you off, and instead of letting your thoughts lead you to anger, allow God’s love to fill you. Or, maybe it means letting go of your feelings of jealousy toward a close friend, and filling up with thoughts of praise for what God has given you instead. Whatever the circumstance, remember to pray and ask God to turn your thoughts toward Him and He will show a path that leads to a peaceful mind, filled with all-things true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy.  Read the full article here.

Cherishing the Blessing of Family This Valentine's Day by Gini

 

Cherishing the Blessing of Family This Valentine's Day via DaySpring Cards and Gifts

We don’t typically think of family first on Valentine’s Day because it is best known as a celebration between lovers. Young couples all over the nation will be getting engaged while married couples will be enjoying a kid-free night out at their favorite restaurants and meanwhile, a 15-year-old girl will receive her first Valentine’s Day present from someone she will always refer to as her “first love.” And, it is in these moments that we should praise God for His beauty because this type of can’t-live-without-you, heart-pounding love is simply beautiful.

The question is: when we’re deciding how to celebrate Valentine’s Day, how might we expand on this holiday to also celebrate our love for family?  Read the full article here.

Floral Valentine's Day Cards

Floral Valentine's Day Cards

Friendship Gift Guide by Gini

Friendship Gift Guide via DaySpring Cards and Gifts

We’ve all been there - running around from store to store at the last minute trying to find just the right birthday or Valentine's gift for that hard-to-buy-for friend. Then, with only minutes left to decide, we end up grabbing something that she might like before heading over to the party, all the while feeling like we’ve let our friend down. And, why? Well, because we are showing up with a meaningless gift that just doesn’t quite represent how much we truly care for her.

At DaySpring, we want to provide you with heartfelt, meaningful gifts that will truly celebrate the special friendships in your life.  Read the full article here.

Things We Do For Love by Renee Swope

Things We Do For Love via DaySpring Cards and Gifts

The thought of God loving me without any conditions was inconceivable, yet something deep in my soul told me it was true. I had been looking for love that didn’t have to be earned. Love I didn’t have to fear I could lose. Honestly, though, it took me a while to see how God’s love could fill the emptiness in my heart.  Read the full article here.

3 Prayers for Your Child's Future Spouse by Kristin

3 Prayers for Your Child's Future Spouse via DaySpring Cards and Gifts

God has truly been gracious in answering those pleas. He hasn’t just shown me how to pray for my children; He has also shown me who else to pray for. I pray for the people who have influence in their daily lives...their friends, their teachers, their coaches, and their youth leaders. But I also pray for the people who will have the most influence in their lives. Although nameless and faceless to me right now, I earnestly pray for my children's future spouses, because one day, they will be my children, too.  Read the full article here.

Valentine's Day Throw Pillow

Valentine's Day Throw Pillow

The Quiet Power of a Friendship Necklace by Gini

The Quiet Power of a Friendship Necklace via DaySpring Cards and Gifts

There's nothing like the bond of faith and friendship—it's lifting each other in prayer, being there no matter what, and offering a little encouragement just when it's needed most. Our (in)courage-inspired Wear-One-Share-One Friendship Necklace Sets were created for connections like that—one friend praying over the other and watching how the Lord works beautifully in her life. Below are some true stories of how these Christian friendship necklaces have empowered sisters-in-Christ to lean on each other and God in their daily lives.  Read the full article here.

You might also like:  10 Quick and Easy Valentine's Day Activities for Kids 

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