Godstruck Ministries 4 Kids October 2014 Newsletter

Blessings Blog: A Step of Faith

I have to admit, it was awkward when we encountered Herbie. The owner of the home had let us know about the location of the hidden key for the front door. It was rather late when we arrived, and Herbie was none too happy when we entered. In fact, Herbie ran halfway up the stairs and, thinking we were uninvited guests, loudly made his displeasure known.

If you haven’t already guessed, Herbie is a dog. He had his tail between his legs and alternated between barking and growling at us while I tried to speak gently to him and assure him that we were friends and not foes. One of my biggest problems at first was not remembering his name. I tried all the common ones: Rover, Spike, Fido, Buddy, Fred... `he kept up with what he must have believed was a threatening ritual. I was able to get to the kitchen where I found a note with his name on it. Success! The minute I said his name, he began to wag his tail, and he must have decided that perhaps we belonged there after all.

Since the family had not been there all day, the next order of business was getting him out for a little relief. I found a leash and was easily able to get him to go both in front of the house and a little while later, out the back door. Being likely appreciative, Herbie was now acting very friendly. Our nephew arrived home soon after, and now my new furry friend was totally happy. It was a nice evening, and since we had spent a long day traveling in the car, I wanted to take Herbie for a walk. Our nephew thought it was a great idea.

Once again, I put Herbie’s leash on him and started out the door and down the front steps. The stroll ended there. Herbie promptly and firmly planted himself in a sitting position, and despite his slender build and medium stature, I couldn’t get him to move. I tugged a bit, but this canine was going nowhere. Being engaged in conversation with my husband and son, my nephew forgot to tell me that Herbie was wearing a collar that confines him to his property. Of course he wasn’t leaving the front yard! Benjamin came out and removed the prohibitive neckwear.

“Come on, Herbie. Let’s go, boy.” Herbie sat in his previous chosen spot. Once again he was making it clear that he was not going to move. I spoke kindly to him; I pulled on the leash; I stepped in place trying to give him the idea, but he still would not take a step forward. Benjamin came out again. This time he carried Herbie past the boundary onto the sidewalk and walked a few yards with us until Herbie understood that everything was okay and he was free to go. He happily trotted along with me for almost forty minutes, which cemented our newly made friendship.

Herbie’s reluctance to make a move reminds me of how we can often approach our walk of faith. We freeze in place, influenced by past experience and giving in to debilitating fear. We plant our feet and dig in our heels believing we know what’s best for us. Not only is it likely to our own detriment, but as we miss out on what God has determined to be for our good, we may fail to experience the reward and joy of something really special. The path, which often does bring us into situations meant to refine us in our faith, stays untouched. We miss the opportunity to be better for God, and we pass up the prospect of a blessing that God may have planned to give us.

Hebrews 11, known as the faith chapter, begins with the following: “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1). Those who truly walk in faith trust God and step forward, confident that He will lead, guide and help them take the journey into the unknown. “If the LORD delights in a man’s way, He makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds Him with His hand” (Psalm 37:25-26). This is trust in someone who will never fail and is always the same. God takes delight in and is pleased with those who take steps of faith, relying solely on Him and His promises.

Herbie finally realized the blessing of going beyond what he thought he knew from his past experience and moving forward with me for an enjoyable jaunt. How much more will we be blessed as we move out in faith to follow our trustworthy God. May He give you courage to take that first step. Enjoy the journey!

Family Activity: Animal Encounters

It is good at times to really take note and thank God for the wonderful things He has placed on this earth for us to enjoy. I am blessed to have a beautiful mountain to view out my kitchen window every day. This time of year there are certain areas of the country where the trees turn incredible shades of red, orange, and gold, a breathtaking sight. I grew up about forty-five minutes from a spectacular waterfall that attracts visitors from all over the world. And then, of course, there are the animals that God has given, both large and small. Since the dawn of time man has depended upon the presence of living creatures for companionship, transportation, entertainment and work assistance.

This month I’d like to suggest taking the family to a place where you can admire this part of God’s handiwork. Not only did He speak the animals into being, He spared them from the flood. Even though we might not understand the reason why some of these creatures exist, He fully knows what His purpose is for each one.

Of course, the first place that comes to mind to observe a variety of animals is the zoo. When I mentioned to my grandkids, ages 11 and almost 13, that I wanted to take them there, they were not just receptive, they were excited about the visit. To observe the behavior of some of these animals is intriguing, and fall, a season of cooler, yet pleasant weather, is a great time to witness optimal activity in most of the zoo’s inhabitants. A well-maintained zoo is a perfect place to see the wonder and diversity of the animals God has placed on the earth.

Whether you’ve been to the zoo often or this is your first trip there, take advantage of your zoo’s website to prepare for your visit. Along with hours, cost, and information on the exhibits and attractions, websites can include facts about different animals one may encounter. Knowing a little bit about what you will see before you arrive can greatly enhance the time you spend there.

Using facts about various animals, you can plan for a very entertaining and interesting outing. Make a game out of it and ask your children questions about the animals you see. We took eight animal fact sheets with us and divided them between the two children. While we stopped to see many displays and exhibits, the goal was to find those eight animals for which we had information. We had a great time and learned some details that we might not otherwise have discovered. Bring along small notepads and writing tools for each of your children to take notes about their favorite animals. Let them put their electronics to good use to take pictures and selfies in front of some of the exhibits. Take advantage of any special free demonstrations or interactions being provided on the day you attend. We were able to see a giant millipede up close and personal and observe a snake feeding on a mouse. You know your own children, so keep in mind each one’s age and sensitivities as you consider whether an activity is appropriate.

If for some reason the zoo will not work for you and your family, then how about going to the local pet shop? While the animals there may not be gigantic or awe-inspiring, these eventual pets are still fascinating and fun to see. Again, do a little research to enhance the visit. These animals do not usually have names at this juncture, so perhaps your family can be creative and assign monikers to some of them. Have fun, but be careful to respect the customers, the staff and any rules that are in place for the protection of the animals and visitors to the shop.

Animals are a magnificent part of God’s creation that we can take the time to appreciate and enjoy. From the smallest insect to the largest creature of the sea, each is unique and serves a special purpose in God’s plan. In whichever activity you participate, take note of the amazing creativity and meticulous work of our God, and thank Him for sharing it all with us.

Living the Word: Righteous Care

As God’s prized creation, human beings are the object of His greatest attention, affection and care. But, God is concerned for all of His creation, and He speaks about the care of animals in His Word. Psalm 36:6 says, “Your righteousness is like the highest mountains, Your justice like the great deep. You, LORD, preserve both people and animals.” Psalm 104 verses 24-26 speaks about the many and varied creatures of the earth. Verses 27-28 continue, “These all look to You to give them their food at the proper time. When you give it to them, they gather it up; when you open Your hand, they are satisfied with good things.” While in Genesis God made it clear that mankind would rule over the animals, we can see that He expects us to care for them as well: Proverbs 12:10 states, “A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal.”

With this in mind, plan to contribute your time, effort and/or funds to an organization that cares for the needs of animals. Many of these groups have strict age requirements for on-site volunteers, therefore the younger children in your household can perhaps earn some change to donate to a local shelter. Younger family members responsible enough to do so could offer to pet sit for a neighbor or friend. My local Humane Society website provided suggestions for how to be involved in animal care including opening up one’s home for animal foster care. Volunteers are also needed to feed local stray cats and transport them to the facility for free spaying and neutering. Compensation is provided for cat food costs. These cats are released back into the environment to continue to live as strays. It is a very interesting concept, and just one more way to perhaps help animals in need.

Some pet shops also welcome volunteers to come in and play with the kittens and puppies for sale. There are likely age restrictions for this endeavor as well. Try to find a creative way for your family to participate in a program to care for animals. God has uniquely created each creature, and when we show our appreciation by becoming involved in animal care, it is a righteous act.

Spotlight: A Word from Tara Tambourine (Katie Langdon)

Hi friends. This is Tara Tambourine but really, I’m the voice of Tara and my name is Katie Langdon. I currently reside in Odessa, TX, living in the heat of the desert. Think tumbleweeds and dirt, and that is my present home. In my church, CrossRoads Fellowship, I work with high school and college students and volunteer with the worship ministry. I have a job at a music store called N’Tune Music & Sound teaching piano and assisting with financial data. Before Odessa, I attended Liberty University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Worship and Music Studies with a specialization in Worship Leadership.

My participation in this CD project has been a wonderful experience. It was a lot of fun to get in front of a microphone and sing the Word of God. If there was one thing that my mother taught me while growing up, it was that putting Scripture to music helped me memorize God’s Word. We would sing my memory verses for school so I could ace my tests. It worked like a charm! Not only did I get A’s on my tests, but it helped me hide God’s Word in my heart. When I have things come my way that trouble me, those verses that I learned as a little girl still come to mind because of music. It was a privilege to be a part of Sing God’s Word – Way to Praise, and I loved every minute of it. I hope Tara Tambourine comes back on another CD!!

☺ Katie

Musical Character Spotlight

Katie plays Tara Tambourine in Sing God's Word - Way to Praise CD #2

Featured Song on CD #2:

The House of the LORD

Personal Profile Spotlight

Residence: Odessa, TX
College Graduate from: Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA; May 2012
College Major: Bachelor of Science in Worship and Music Studies
College Specialization: Worship Leadership
Occupation: Accountant and Piano Teacher at N'Tune Music and Sound
Home Church: CrossRoads Fellowship, Odessa, TX
Marital Status: Single

As the theme verse for Godstruck Ministries 4 Kids, Colossians 3:16 speaks to the heart and soul of why this ministry exists. Our mission is to help children hide God’s Word and principles in their hearts through His wonderful gift of music.