by Dennis and Barbara Rainey

3 John 4
I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth.

I've already described the Rainey Thanksgiving Brunch, in which we emphasize thanking God for how He has worked in our lives. It's been interesting-and gratifying-to hear what our kids have expressed.

A couple of years ago, our daughter Rebecca wrote, "I'm thankful for being able to have a family. I'm thankful to have a big sister. I'm thankful for being able to be a part of God's family. I'm thankful for being able to learn. I'm thankful for Dad's sixth-grade Sunday School class."

Here's what Benjamin, then a senior in high school, wrote:

"1. I'm thankful for God in my life and the things He has given me to be thankful for. 2. Samuel's friendship. 3. Mom and Dad and the example they set of how to live a godly life. 4. My ministry at my high school and my sisters and all they've taught me about relationships."

And Samuel, then 15, had this to say: "1. I'm thankful that Ashley can come home." [This was her first year away at college and we were all thrilled that she was home.] 2. My family. 3. My muscular dystrophy and my trip to Mayo Clinic. 4. I got to shoot a deer. 5. A great brother."

It was special to hear our kids thank God for each other as well as hardships in their lives-Samuel had only learned the previous summer that he had MD. After all the conflicts the kids have had over the years, Barbara and I could now see them starting to come together.

Parenting is a long and relentless task. You often wonder whether you are succeeding or failing, and you may not know the results of your efforts for many years. So when you catch just a glimpse that your kids are starting to walk in the truth, you can't help but rejoice.

Prayer:

Thank God for a right choice your spouse or child has recently made.

Discuss: Have your kids done something recently to show that God is working in their lives? If so, write it down so you won't forget it.

Would you like your own copy of this devotional?