Use Creation to Teach Your Children - ENJOY JEHOVAH'S CREATION AS A FAMILY

 At times, parents may find it hard to get their children to talk about the problems they face.  If that is your situation, you may need to draw out your children's thoughts. (Read Proverbs 20:5.) Some parents find it easier to do so when they are  enjoying nature with their children. Why?  One reason is that there are fewer distractions for children and for parents. A  father in Taiwan named Masahiko mentions another reason: "When we spend time outdoors with our children-hiking in the mountains or walking along the beach-they usually feel more relaxed.  We thus find it easier to draw them out and learn what is on their mind." Katya, quoted earlier, says:  "After school, my mother would take me to a beautiful part.  In such a relaxed atmosphere, I found it easier to tell her what happened at school or what worried me. 

Jehovah's creation can also provide families with a means to relax and have fun, thus strengthening family ties.  The Bible says that there is "a time to laugh" and "a time to skip about." (Ecclesiastes 3:1, 4) Through his handiwork, Jehovah has given us  wonderful  settings to enjoy wholesome activities.  Many families like being together at a nature reserve, in the countryside, in the mountains, or at the beach.  Some children love to run and play in a park, to observe animals, or to swim in a river, a lake, or the sea.  What excellent opportunities  we have for recreation when we are out in the open, surrounded by what Jehovah has made!

In God's new world, parents and children will enjoy Jehovah's creation as never before. Unlike today, we will have no reason to fear animals; nor will they fear us.  (Isaiah 11:6-9) We will have endless time to enjoy what Jehovah has made.  (Psalm 22:26)  But parents, do not wait until then to help your children to begin enjoying creation. As you use creation to teach your children about Jehovah, they likely come to agree with what King David said: "O Jehovah there are no works like  yours. - PSALM 86:8.

Next time: "By This All Will Know That You Are My Disciples"

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