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Triple Play Tuesday!

careyscotttalks — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 12:00:39 +0000

Woah… I am all over the place today!

Lace up your walking shoes and come take a tour with me…

FIRST STOP, Christian Work At Home Moms (aka CWAHM)

I’m discussing how we need to be intentional in pouring God’s Truths into our kids by finding creative ways to bring Him into focus. When we do, we are taking back the ground that the world (the Enemy) has stolen from our kids.

We can’t let our guard down because our kids are in a Christian school.
We cannot rely on Sunday church to keep them in line.
We shouldn’t assume that just because we are Christians, our kids will follow suit.

Not a chance.

As parents raising Godly kids, we need to be on point with this struggle at all times. Come see me… I have ideas to share!

SECOND STOP is at my sweet friend, Heatherly’s blog – A Pinkdaisy Life.

She asked the question: What moves me into the Christmas spirit?

And I bet you won’t be surprised by my answer.

When this certain thing happens, I’m quick to tears because it speaks to a deeper place in my spirit and I sit in awe of the humbling events surrounding the birth of Jesus.

I wonder… what moves you into the Christmas mood?

LAST STOP is at my dear friend Shannon’s blog, Jesus and My Orange Juice.

In this post, I am writing from the perspective of the Prophetess, Anna. Do you remember the part she played in the story of baby Jesus?

Among other things, she reminds us to be patient for God’s promises because He will fulfill. Heck, she was 84 before she saw hers come to pass.

And I love her excitement when she looked upon the Messiah. What an honor that must have been!

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Whew… I need more coffee.

Why not grab some of your own and come visit me? Hope to see you soon!

Let’s Connect! Follow me on Twitter, Book Me to speak at your event, Like my Facebook Fan Page, Visit me each Wednesday at “Moms Together,” Learn about LeadHer’s mission to equip women to make an impact for Christ.

He Really Is

careyscotttalks — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 12:00:16 +0000

This time of year is unmatched for me.

I love it all… and so do my kids.

But the real challenge comes in trying to keep Jesus at the center of our celebration. It’s easy to subscribe to the world’s idea of Christmas.

Because to be honest, it’s not all that bad.

It’s fun to decorate the tree. We love the holiday music and movies. There’s ample family (and friend) time.

The smells…

The sights…

The sales…

But… they don’t always point to Jesus.

So as parents, we need to be intentional in reminding our children that this holiday celebration is a remembrance of the first Christmas.

We need to make sure Jesus really is the reason.

At CWAHM today, I’m sharing some ways to do just that. Whether you are looking for ideas yourself or have some to share, I’d love to hear from you!

What Does "THANKFUL" Look Like?

careyscotttalks — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 11:00:16 +0000

Later this week, we are going to sit down and share a Thanksgiving meal.

Some will eat ham, others turkey. Potatoes might be mashed with gravy or missing from the table all together. There are families who will spend hours making each dish perfect and others that will buy it already made from their favorite restaurant or store.

Many of us are excited to spend time with our families. Some are dreading it. For others, this could be a time of pain as you find yourself missing a loved one.

It can look different for everyone.

Regardless, there is one common thread.

It’s the time of year where we are more intentional in counting our blessings.

It’s the time when we adopt (or borrow) an attitude of gratitude.

It’s a time of putting aside our differences and assuming a posture of… thanks.

And it would do us good to remember that little eyes and ears are watching. They always do.

So I wonder…

How are you teaching your kids the art of… thanks-giving?

So often, we get wrapped up in the details of the meal or the Black Friday shopping plan. We allow ourselves to get stressed about the food or fellowship.

Our attitudes become bitter and resentful and we allow our joy to turn into anger.

And it seeps onto our kids.

Ugh.

That isn’t something I want to pass on.

I don’t want to leave that kind of legacy for my kids.

I bet you feel the same way.

So… as parents trying to raise Godly kids, we need to be intentional to set our children up to be thankful people.

Wanna know how?

At CWAHM today, I’m sharing an acrostic I created for the word “THANKSGIVING” designed to help you instill a thankful heart in your kids.

Who knows… It may help your heart, too.

Sisters, if you don’t teach them to be grateful… who will?

Is It Sinkin' In... Yet?

careyscotttalks — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:00:52 +0000

As parents trying to raise Godly kids, we need to do whatever we can to expose our children to the Truth.

You see, part of our job is to direct our kids to Jesus. We need to point them… to Him. Our children need to know:

Who He is.
Why they need Him.
How to connect with Him.
What a relationship with Jesus looks like.
Where they can find Him in their circumstances.

And there are lots of ways we can encourage our children to develop an affinity for their Creator.

How are you doing it?

Well if you are looking for inspiration, then you’ve got to hear the story I am sharing at CWAHM today. It’s about the moment it occurred to me that my kids are “getting” it.

And it brought me to tears…

Speaking Loudly

careyscotttalks — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 11:00:00 +0000

I have a question for you.

Do you know your child’s love language?

Do you know the things to do to make them feel… important?

As parents, it’s so critical to zero in on the language that speaks the loudest to each of our kids. We need to fill their love buckets up as much… and as often… as we can because when we do, it helps build our children’s self-esteem and confidence.

It tells them they hold great value.

There are five love languages that our children speak.

Do you know which one(s) connect the most with your kids?

Come visit me at CWAHM today and I’ll unpack those five languages with you. I’ll also hook you up with a fun online quiz with questions you can ask your kids to help you determine which one speaks loudest to them.

Sisters, if we don’t learn to love on our kids the way they need to be loved … rest assured the world will happily do it for us.

No. Thanks…

Speak Blessings Over Your Kids

careyscotttalks — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 10:00:54 +0000

“Sara, you’re beautiful and smart… and you have Jesus in your heart! Now go be the light of the world!”

Those are words I say to my daughter as she heads off to school each morning. Usually, she smiles at me and says, “Mom, you always say that!”

She’s right… I do.

Why?

Because I am speaking a blessing into her life. Words are so powerful and when we speak truth and life into our kids, it helps set them up for success.

I wonder… do you bless your children?

I’m not talking about those simple words you mutter after they sneeze. I’m talking about speaking out blessings over your kids.

Do you do that?

By definition, a blessing is the infusion of something with holiness, divine will, or one’s hope or approval. So when we speak out a blessing for our kids, we are speaking out our hope for their lives as well as endowing God’s love, power and grace into them.

Why is it important to say these blessings out loud to them?

Because we love our children and want them to know we desire the best for them.
Because words are powerful both for the one who speaks them and the one who receives them.
Because doing so helps convince our kids that God cares and loves them, is present for them, and has a divine purpose for their lives.
Because our words can override the voice of the accuser.
Because God calls us to do it. (Matthew 12:36, Proverbs 18:21)

Saying a blessing… out loud… empowers our children to step into their calling. It releases a tidal wave of favor on them. This intentional act has the power to transform their lives and set them on the right path.

My husband wrote a blessing specific for each of our kids. Each night as we tuck them into bed, he speaks this blessing over them.

They love it.

So much so, they have it memorized and correct him if he messes up.

No matter how young or old your children are, you can bless them with your words. You can bless them in the crib or bless them when they bring their families to visit you at Christmas.

As their parent, your words are powerful regardless of their age.

Here’s your game plan:

Ask God to give you the exact words to share with each of your children. Seek Him before you commit a word on paper.
Once you have a clear direction, write or type out their blessings.
Find time each day to speak it over them. It might be on your drive to school, at bedtime, or at the dinner table.

To get an idea of what a blessing could look like, here’s an example of one you might write for your daughter:

Sara, I bless your life as I know you will become a wonderful woman of God. I bless your mind to remain sound and for you to have wisdom and discernment in all decisions. I bless your body to remain pure until marriage and to be healthy and strong. I bless your hands and feet to do the work that God has ordained for you to do. I bless your mouth where words of truth and encouragement will flow. I bless your heart to remain loyal to God’s will for your life. I bless your husband-to-be and your future children’s lives with richness and unity. I love everything about you, Sara, and I am proud to be your mother. You bless our family and your friends in so many ways.

You have a responsibility and a privilege to speak words of life and truth into your kids. And because the world can be cruel, their thirsty spirits need that encouragement daily.

Friends… as long as there is breath in your lungs, be intentional in blessing your children.

Choosing Our Words Wisely

careyscotttalks — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 10:00:27 +0000

At CWAHM today, I’m talking about the importance if choosing our words wisely.

It’s no secret that words carry great power.

They carry an assignment.

They can give us an over-inflated, incorrect view of self.

Words can make us believe we are something… or nothing.

They can encourage us to work through an issue or stop us in our tracks.

They can completely destroy our self-esteem.

OR…

Our words can encourage, affirm, heal, direct, grow and challenge others by breathing life into them.

The power of the tongue is undeniable.

James 3:7-10 in the Message says, “This is scary: You can tame a tiger, but you can’t tame a tongue—it’s never been done. The tongue runs wild, a wanton killer. With our tongues we bless God our Father; with the same tongues we curse the very men and women he made in his image. Curses and blessings out of the same mouth!”

As parents, we have to be so careful with the words we use with our children and very intentional about how we use them.

Because without even being aware of it, our words can destroy the heart of our kids and send them into adulthood thinking they aren’t good enough.

Can you relate to this story?

Friends… while we cannot be perfect parents, we can be ones who purpose to speak words of life into our children.

It's A Phase...

careyscotttalks — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 11:00:11 +0000

I remember that phone call like it was yesterday.

“Carey, we’ve had a bad morning with Sam. When I asked him to pay attention in class, Sam got angry saying he wished he could blow up the world… so I couldn’t live in it.”

Gulp.

And he was in preschool at the time.

Yes, funny and quite clever now… but not so funny at the time.

Actually, not at all.

We have had some really rough seasons with Sam. Seasons where we wanted to give him away to a good home… for free. And then other times where he was a dream.

The same is true for Sara.

She went through a “creative” time where she drew on walls and etched her artwork in our furniture.

We still get to view her artwork… years later.

When I’d find myself frustrated and overwhelmed with the actions and attitudes of my children, my mom gave me some great advice.

Wanna know her wise advice?

Come visit me at CWAHM by clicking here!

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I'm Multi-Tasking Today...

careyscotttalks — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 11:00:55 +0000

Happy Tuesday to you!

Oh I’m loving the crispness in the air and the colors in Colorado are breath-taking. This is my favorite time of year and I’m taking it all in. I hope you are getting to celebrate fall wherever you are, too!

Do you have time to visit me at two different blogs?

Of course, I am at CWAHM today talking about the need to respect our kids. And there is one way we can do this that helps set them up for a better future.

It will also help grow their confidence and self-esteem.

Curious? You can check it out here.

Also today, I’m over at Keeping It Personal talking about God’s pace in our circumstances.

Personally, my desired timing and God’s actual timing rarely align and sometimes it’s so frustrating. But when I look back, I see that His pace in responding to my situation is always perfect.

You can find that post here.

Have I told you lately how much I appreciate you taking the time to read the words God has laid on my heart? It means so much to know you are out there.

My hope is that God meets you through my words… and soothes you, encourages you, heals you or smacks you upside the head.

Be blessed, friends!

Consequences

careyscotttalks — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 12:36:01 +0000

Consequences are inevitable.

We know that to be true.

We’ve seen ‘em.
We’ve had ‘em.
We’ve dealt ‘em.

But are you raising your kids to expect ‘em?

What a disservice to our kids when we always let their offenses slide. What are we teaching our kids about taking responsibility when we right their wrongs?

Are you teaching your kids that there are consequences to their actions?

Come visit me at CWAHM today and join the discussion. You can find it here…

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But Do You Show It...

careyscotttalks — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 11:00:18 +0000

“Ewwwww!”

That was Sara’s reaction when she saw Wayne and I kissing in the hallway last night. She then went on to say, “Ahhh guys, that’s so romantic…”

Our kids know their mom and dad love each other. They know that we are fiercely protective of each other. Sam and Sara have a front row seat to a caring, purposeful, God-centered marriage.

I’m not trying to brag.

To be honest, it’s actually a miracle we are still married based on our first five years of marriage. Without a doubt, we have fought very hard to have a marriage where we appreciate and enjoy each other.

And while we are not perfect spouses or have the perfect marriage… we are purposeful in showing our kids what a Godly husband and wife look like.

They need to see it… because the world is trying hard to redefine marriage.

And if we don’t show them, who will?

Sisters, we not only need to love our husbands… we need to show our kids what that looks like.

Wanna join in the conversation? Click here.

Passing Stress

careyscotttalks — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 11:00:43 +0000

Selling a house is stressful.

Well, the selling part isn’t… but having to live in your house without looking like you do is another story.

The Scott family has become accustomed to a certain amount of clutter and filth. Did I really just reveal that? Well, it’s the truth. We’d rather spend our time playing than cleaning.

So having to live at this level of clean is… stressful.

Now we aren’t candidates for the reality show Hoarders nor do we need an intervention, we just don’t live this clean on a day-to-day basis.

Well, the stress I’ve been feeling to get the house ready to show and keep the house ready to show has apparently rubbed off on Sam. He’s a sensitive kid and easily absorbs our emotions.

My stress has jumped to him.

Have you seen that in your own family? Do you have a child that is more susceptible to emo-transfers?

At CWAHM today, I am talking about how our stress can stress out our kids and I’m providing practical suggestions to lessen the effects when we know stress might be heading our direction.

My stars, parenting well is so intentional.

You have to be present and aware of what you say… what you do… and what you pass on.

But you know what? God chose you to parent your children for a reason.

And He’s also an intentional parent.

Remember, we don’t have to be perfect parents… just purposeful ones.

I wonder – What emotions might you be passing on to your kids right now?

I Need To Model Patience?

careyscotttalks — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 11:00:17 +0000

Good morning, friends! I’m hanging out at CWAHM today talking about patience and the importance of modeling it for our children.

Are you a patient parent?

It’s not my strongest suit. To be perfectly honest… I’m not always the best model for that.

Especially when I am driving somewhere.

And running late.

And the line at Starbucks is too long to grab a Frapp.

Danger Will Robinson (please tell me you aren’t too young to place that phrase).

As a matter of fact, just the other day I was in that exact scenario. The car in front of me wasn’t even going the speed limit. Seriously…

Well, I was opening my mouth to share some very G-rated “suggestions” with this slow driver… but my kids beat me to it.

Um… that moment proved without a doubt that they really do listen to everything I say and watch everything I do.

Come visit me and I’ll share exactly what they said. It was pretty funny…

Sisters, be blessed!

RU Teaching Your Kids 2B Perfect?

careyscotttalks — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 11:00:30 +0000

“They say that nobody is perfect. Then they tell you practice makes perfect. I wish they’d make up their minds.” (Wilt Chamberlain)

Ain’t that the truth.

The world is fickle. It tells you to work hard for recognition… but then changes it’s mind all the time. The world continues to expect more and more of us, so we push ourselves to be better.

We want to be perfect.

Yuck.

Worst part? We end up doing the same thing to our kids. We expect more than we should. Our unrealistic expectations of their performance at school, in sports, of spirituality, etc. rages out of control.

Our children end up discouraged, discontent and disillusioned.

Are you teaching your kids to be perfect?

Grab your coffee and come see me at CWAHM where I am talking about the problem with trying to raise perfect kids.

Sometimes we do it without even realizing it.

And it’s dangerous.

Come visit me and I’ll tell you why.

By the way, Wayne starts his new job tomorrow. We finally get to exhale… God is so faithful.

Have a ~~perfect~~ fulfilling week!

That Feeling...

careyscotttalks — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 11:00:58 +0000

I love three day weekends. I hope yours was wonderful and that an extra sleeping-in day did you a world of good. It always does me.

So… I have a question. Do you ever get “that” feeling?

The feeling that something isn’t right? Maybe you can’t quite put your finger on it, but it causes you to pause. It’s that check in your spirit.

It’s called mom’s “intuition.“ And it is God-given. It’s actually God’s Spirit inside us… speaking.

And as parents, listening to that voice is key in protecting our children.

Many times I’ve not, and in the end realized that I should have trusted it. I’m learning now, however, to take that gut check very seriously.

And of course, sometimes acting on it is an unpopular decision. Other times it’s inconvenient.

But God trusted me with Sam and Sara. They are a gift. A reward.

Come visit me at CWAHM today. I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. I’ll also give you some examples of what that voice has sounded like for me recently.

Now that I’m listening for it, I’ve been hearing it loud and clear.

I also have some ministry news to share with you.

I’ve recently joined the speaker and writing team for a new ministry called LeadHer. The heart of the ministry is to encourage, equip and educate women to make a deeper impact for Christ in their sphere of influence.

They do this through…

Local chapters across the nation. You can join one in your area or start one of your own. Membership is FREE and open to women of all denominations, ages 16-116.
A weekly 30 minute radio show designed to energize your faith. They talk about what you need in order to be equipped as a strong, leader, woman serving God.
Hosting training events across the nation which will give you practical tools to do what God is calling you to do and help connect you to other women. Next event is October 21-22 in Colorado Springs. Register now!

I know that’s a lot of links to click. No doubt your pointer finger is getting a good workout today!

Be blessed, friends!

Intentional R and R

careyscotttalks — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 11:00:49 +0000

Happy Tuesday to my sistahs!

I’m sensing a coolness in the air, which means we are heading towards fall… my favorite time of year! But while the temps might be dropping, our schedules are certainly increasing in intensity.

It can be a difficult shift.

After a pretty relaxing and stress-free summer schedule, we’re doing our best to set the kids up for success with a new, busier schedule.

Between school, homework, sports practices and chores… we have to be so intentional about rest. It’s key to happy children, better attitudes, higher grades, greater energy and healthier bodies.

At CWAHM today, I am discussing the importance of rest for our kids. And I am sharing ideas on how to make that possible.

Hey, no condemnation here! I know life is busy, especially this time of year. Believe me, we are living it, too!

But even in the midst of a crazy schedule, there are things we can do to give our kids a chance to rest. Click here to find out how.

Let’s Connect! Follow me on Twitter, Book Me to speak at your event, Like my Facebook Fan Page, Visit me each Wednesday at “Moms Together.”

Teaching Contentment

careyscotttalks — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 11:30:35 +0000

Hebrews 13:5 says “Don’t love money. Be happy with what you have because God has said, “I will never abandon you or leave you.”

Don’t love money, eh?

Be happy with what I have?

Those are two hard statements. You see, sometimes that’s easier said then done. And with my husband out of work right now, we’re really having to live this out loud.

We are having to be content with much less than we’re used to. So are our kids.

To be honest, though, it’s not a huge stretch from “normal” for us. I mean…

We aren’t careless with our spending.
We don’t do extravagant things.
We don’t live like royalty.

We are just having to trim the extras. No movies. No eating out. No back to school shopping. Fewer Frapps (this one hurts the most).

Things in the house that need to be fixed can wait.

Bill payments can be negotiated.

We are learning to be content by… having to be.

Oh this is so good for our kids to see. They are taking the field trip to learning that God will provide for our every need.

I hope you’ll come visit me today at CWAHM. I’m unpacking the importance of teaching our children what Biblical contentment looks like… and I’m contrasting that with the danger of what the world’s message of contentment is.

As parents trying to raise Godly kids, we’ve gotta get this message into the marrow of their bones.

We have to teach them through life examples.
We have to model it in our words and actions.
We have to show them what God says about it.

Understanding the art of contentment will set them up for success in their lives. If they don’t learn this, they will have a constant struggle for bigger, better, more, different.

Click here to read today’s blog. I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Let’s Connect! Subscribe to this blog, Follow me on Twitter, Book Me to speak at your event, or Like my Facebook Fan Page

Saying... I'm Sorry

careyscotttalks — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 11:00:19 +0000

Hello bloggy sistahs!

It’s really here. The first day of school for my kids is today!

To be honest, I have mixed feelings about it. It’s hard to see those sweet little critters grow up. I totally dig my kids. Truly. My husband and I really enjoy them… smart mouths, bad attitudes, difficult seasons and all.

They make life more… interesting. Yes?

We’ve been so diligent in praying for their school year… this one more than any other before. We feel so prepared. They do, too. Now it’s God’s turn to grow them, teach them, chisel them and draw them closer to Him.

Can’t wait to see it!

You know what I have seen recently, though? Their ability to say two very important words. One of the things we’ve been working on with them is saying, “I’m sorry.” Sometimes its hard to say, but its a phrase that breathes life into a person or a situation.

I’m over at CWAHM today talking about the importance of teaching our children to apologize when things they say or things they do hurt someone.

What a good lesson to learn young.

I am also talking about how we, as parents, need to set the example for them. And trust me, my kids have had the chance to see it modeled a lot. Sigh…

Click here and I will take you over to the post right now.

By the way, I have some very cool news to share with you in the next few days. Seriously amazing things God is doing with my ministry. Can’t wait to fill you in…

Sisters, be blessed today!

Let’s Connect! Subscribe to this blog, Follow me on Twitter, Book Me to speak at your event, or Like my Facebook Fan Page

Your Kids Need To See This

careyscotttalks — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 11:30:08 +0000

Happy Tuesday, friends!

Well, the countdown to school is underway… T-minus 1 week as of today.

We’re going to bed earlier in preparation for getting up earlier.
The kid’s new backpacks and lunch boxes have been picked out and purchased.
First-day outfits are clean and ready to wear.

And while I am looking forward to some semblance of a schedule, I am gonna miss those little critters. I’ve seen so much growth in them physically, emotionally but mostly… spiritually.

They are really starting to “get” God on a deeper level.

That does my heart good. I desperately want Sam and Sara to develop their own personal relationship with Him rather than just relying on or adopting mine.

My kids need to learn how to see God’s goodness and provision with their own eyes.

Well, I’m at CWAHM today talking about just that. And if you click here, you’ll see how I’m pointing them in that direction.

You know what, if you are trying to raise Godly kids… this is something you need to teach them, too.

Hope you can stop by!

Let’s Connect! Subscribe to this blog, Follow me on Twitter, Book Me to speak at your event, or Like my Facebook Fan Page

Brand Name Parenting, Part 1

Tim Floyd — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 00:01:49 +0000

Great Falls, VA - American corporations spend billions of dollars annually to create a brand for their products. The point is that whenever you see the golden arches, you instantly think of two or three positive ideas like happy kids, quick service, and tasty food that’s fun to eat. The sight of the familiar Apple trademark reminds most people of great computers, innovative technology, Ipads and Iphones. So when it comes to parenting, what is your brand? When your children think of you as their mom or dad, what are the two or three prominent ideas that most quickly come to mind?

There must be any number of brands from which to choose. There are chill, laid back parents and then there are strict parents who insist that the home is highly structured and regulated. Some people want to be fun parents while others want to impress their children with the priority of hard work. Some kids have absentee parents who work 80 hours a week and hire good child care helpers. Other children have helicopter parents who are always hovering nearby.

My brand has always been Christian parent. That is, I always wanted my daughters and son to know that the most important advantage in all of life is knowing Christ and walking with him. I always wanted to impress my children with the priority that when Jesus Christ comes first, everything else somehow falls into place. I got that conviction from a familiar passage in the Bible- Deuteronomy 6: 4-9. Take a moment to read that passage and I’ll share three quick thoughts with you.

First, Moses emphasizes that God must be the center of attention in a godly home. Granted, one part of the message here is that God may manifest himself in a variety of ways, but he’s only one God. We worship one God, not three or twelve or twenty. But when the passage elaborates that I must love God with all my heart, soul and strength, it’s a clear admonition that the Lord must be the center of attention in my home.

Contrast that to most 21st Century American homes where the kids are always the center of attention. Maybe it’s because so many divorced parents feel guilty while the rest of us are obsessed by self-esteem psychology. Maybe there are other reasons. But whatever the case, children are rarely out of sight and out of mind when their parents are in the same building. A generation ago, parents taught kids to go outside and cultivate respect and resourcefulness while their parents chatted inside. Today’s parents constantly talk to each other around their children, and display “My child is an honor student” bumper stickers when they drop the kids off at school and head for work.

Things look quite different in a home where God is #1 and the center of attention. Sure, there are conversations about grades, friends, challenges, problems, and movies. But there are also times when the Word of God is read and discussed. There are times with the problems we’ve been discussing are committed to the Lord in prayer. And sometimes when the topic of a popular movie or television show comes up, godly parents use the occasion to ponder what God’s take on the show might be. Does it glorify things that God hates, or does it reflect a worldview that includes faith and love? What kind of decision did the main character make, and how might a follower of Jesus Christ respond differently?

Crazy! Where did we get this idea that God expects us to raise scholars or athletes or budding movie stars? God has directed you and me to raise Christians; godly children who can mature to be Christ-like men and women. One way we rub off on the world with our salt and light is by sending out children who share those qualities.

Oops! I’m out of space. I’ll pick up with parenting lessons from Deuteronomy 6 next time we’re together.

Welcome to the Desert.

Praying Over Your Kid's Rooms

careyscotttalks — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 11:00:42 +0000

Happy Tuesday!

I hope you had a wonderful weekend and are enjoying the summer with your kids. Oh my gosh… we had such a great time at the beach last week. I’m convinced I could live there permanently. The ocean does me and my family good.

It’s our happy place.

Well today at CWAHM, I’m talking about praying over your kid’s rooms. Do you do that?

I remember a good friend suggest it to me years ago because my kids were having nightmares. I have to admit it sounded a little coo-coo-cacho to me then, but it is a very common practice in my house now.

Why? Because I’ve seen it work time and time again.

It has restored a peaceful environment
It has calmed anxious and fearful little hearts
It has strengthened my faith in the power of prayer

These prayers are just another powerful weapon in your parenting arsenal.

Keep in mind, though, that these are not prayers you pray when you’re tucking your kids in at night. Nope. These are prayers you pray once your kids have slipped into sweet slumber or while they are outside jumping on the trampoline.

As I tell my kids, “This is grown-up stuff.”

Maybe you’re not sure where to start or what to say. No worries. If you click here, I’ll provide you with a sample prayer that you can tweak to make your own or use as is.

Praying over your child’s room isn’t magic. There is nothing weird or mystical about it.

What you’re essentially doing is taking authority over your home and asking God to fill it with His presence. You are also praying against any plans the Enemy may have to cause distress to your children.

In other words, you’re cleaning house.

Hope you’ll take a minute to read my blog by clicking here. As parents trying to raise Godly kids, we need to pray divine protection over our children any chance we get.

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Making God More Real To Your Kids

careyscotttalks — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 11:00:12 +0000

Hello friends! What a glorious day!

It’s CWAHM Tuesday (click here to head on over now).
The sun is shining.
My kids are at Vacation Bible School.
I’m home – alone.
My laundry is folded and put away (miracle!).

Yes, life is good.

I wonder… how is your summer is going?

Are you avoiding the summer shift (click here to read about that) or have you been unable to find that God-time we so desperately need?
Are you enjoying your children or looking to sign them up for every summer camp available?
Is your schedule manageable or are too many balls in the air?

No one would argue that this is a challenging time for us moms, but it’s also a great opportunity to pour into our children.

It’s the perfect chance to undo some of those hurtful and painful things that side-swiped our kids during the school year. Every kids gets their self-esteem dinged during school. They all navigate feelings of rejection. Many face struggles that are heart-breaking.

But summer is a great time to reverse the damage.

And I’m talking on CWAHM today about just that. I am highlighting one important weapon that may be missing from our parenting arsenal.

Trust me, you’ll want to make sure you’re doing this! Why?

It is essential to healing their hearts.
It helps make God real to them and not just someone mommy prays to.
It equips them to engage in spiritual warfare.

Click here to head on over. And if you have a minute, I’d love to know what your thoughts are about this one thing. Is it something you are already doing?

Sisters, if you are wanting to raise Godly kids… then you need to make this part of your parenting battle plan.

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Beware The Summer Shift

careyscotttalks — Tue, 24 May 2011 11:00:14 +0000

Hello friends!

I’m at CWAHM today talking about a difficulty I bet we all face during the summertime. To jump right over to my blog, you can click here.

Well sisters, while these next few months might mean:

Sun kissed skin and sun bleached hair,
Water time, be it the ocean, lake or pool,
Barbeques with family and friends,
Camping and gooey chocolately smores, and
Watermelon slices and seed spitting contests…

… they also pose some logistical challenges.

With kids out of school, our lives get crazy busy. On top of our demanding jobs and unending housework… even while maintaining our friendships and trying to keep our sanity… even with going on exciting vacations and hosting out-of-town guests… we have these sweet, yet demanding, little people to entertain.

You know what that means, yes? It means we have to be careful of the Summer Shift.

Come again?

Well, it’s simple. You see for these next few months, our schedules ramp up and our lives become busier than normal. Because of that, some things tend to quietly shift in our lives and eventually end up off our radar screens altogether.

Sometimes without us even realizing it.

So unless we are intentional about refreshing our relationship with God daily, He can easily become a casualty of the summer shift.

And unfortunately when we model that for our kids, they see it as… normal.

Make no mistake, your children learn by example. They watch you. They learn how to do their lives by watching you do yours. So if your goal is to raise kids who see God as a 24/7/365 God, then you need to model a relationship with Him where He doesn’t become a casualty of the summer shift.

How?

Click here to come visit me at CWAHM, and I’ll offer some suggestions on how to keep God at the center of your family’s summer.

Ya’ll come on over now… ya hear?

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Do You Bless Your Kids With Your Words?

careyscotttalks — Tue, 10 May 2011 11:30:22 +0000

Because of your position as a parent, you are a powerful force in the lives of your children.

Your kids watch how you act in situations to see what’s right and wrong.
They trust you to take care of their needs.
When they have questions, they look to you for answers.
You help set their moral compass to point towards good or evil.
Your kids learn how they should be treated based on how you treat them.

And while all of these are important to keep in mind, you hold the most power in their lives with your words.

Did you ever consider that?

With a word you can encourage them or deflate them. With one sentence, you can allow them to feel loved or unwanted. You have the ability to make them feel great worth or feel like a burden.

Oh yes… your words are so very, very powerful indeed.

I’m talking about this exact topic today at CWAHM. I’m discussing how we can choose to curse or bless our kids. And we do have a choice.

When we bless them, we are essentially speaking life into them. We are agreeing with God’s hope and desire for them. We are making our voice louder than the Enemy’s voice.

And not only should we do it… we are called to do it!

Maybe you’re not sure where to start or what to say.
Maybe you need more information on why you should bless your kids.
Maybe you have no idea when or where this should happen.

I can help! Click here and I’ll take you over to CWAHM where I’m answering all these questions. Plus, I’m sharing a few sample blessings that we say to our kids.

Friends… as long as there is breath in your lungs, be intentional in blessing your children.

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Lessons From a Swimming Pool

careyscotttalks — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 12:00:14 +0000

I took the kids to an indoor swimming pool up in the mountains over the weekend.

It was just a day trip to visit some friends who were vacationing up there. Wayne was out of town and Sam and Sara had a lot of energy to burn. I saw it as a win-win situation.

But the dreaded “it” happened.

Shortly after we arrived, some little kid pooped in the pool. You can handle a poop devo, right?

Not only did the mom and kid act like nothing happened that afternoon, but I discovered that the same thing had happened the night before with the same family. Can someone say Little Swimmers?

Anyway, the pool closed and the kids scrambled to find something else to occupy them. Hard to do when the sole reason we were all there was to swim.

It struck me as interesting how that kid’s “deposit” effected the rest of us.

He wasn’t trying to be hurtful or destructive.
His intentions weren’t to ruin things for the other swimmers.
He probably never even considered that the rest of us would care about his “business.“

He was just livin’ his life and doing what he wanted to do.

I think sin can be the same way.

We aren’t necessarily thinking about how our bad choices will affect our children when we engage in sinful activity.

We don’t connect that our potty mouth comments can essentially “okay” it for our kids to do the same.
We don’t understand that the horrible things we scream at our husband in anger can cause deep insecurities for our children.
We don’t see that our self-loathing teaches our kids that they, like us, should think little of themselves.
We don’t realize that our constant talk about our weight affects the way our daughters look at their bodies and how our sons look at women.
We don’t get that when we gossip in ear-shot, our kids think it’s normal and acceptable.

As parents, we have an intense responsibility to be role-models for our kids. And what we do and say deeply affects them… even when it has nothing to do with them.

Just like the kid that pooped in the pool, when we are careless with our words and our actions – our kids are affected.

Let’s remember that we have little ears and eyes tuning in.

Look, parenting isn’t for sissy’s. There is so much to do and so much to remember knowing that even when you watch your P’s and Q’s, you’re still messing them up.

But if we stand strong trying to do what God instructs us to do, we will bless our kids.

“The Godly walk with integrity; blessed are their children who follow them.” (Proverbs 20:7)

Free yourself from the expectation that you’ll be a perfect and blameless parent because we are incapable of it. But we can walk with integrity.

I’m lacing up my sneakers.

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