7. Dig deeper.
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Time is a gift. The slower pace of summer allows extra hours to connect with God. It’s the perfect season to read the Word and stories of faith as a family. You can create prayer journals and talk to God together. Set a goal to memorize a Bible passage by the time school rolls around again. Volunteer in your church or community to put love in action.
If a hectic school year left you feeling far apart, plan plenty of one-on-one time with your kids. Plan a weekly trip for fro-yo just to talk and catch up. Take your son or daughter along while you run errands. Hear their heart during early morning walks while the family is still sleeping. Just listen. Make eye contact. Give undivided attention that says, “You’re the most important thing in my world right now.” The trust and closeness you build over the summer can prepare you all for what’s ahead in the new school year.
Some careful planning, a sense of normalcy, and plenty of time together makes for a sweet start to summer for everyone. As you celebrate the finish of a full school year, you can anticipate the priceless memories to come.
How abundant are the good things that you have stored up for those who fear you, that you bestow in the sight of all, on those who take refuge in you. (Psalm 31:19)
How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light. (Psalm 36:7-9)
Joanna Teigen and her husband Rob have shared over 25 years of marriage and life with five kids, plus a lovely daughter-in-law. They’re a neat-freak married to a mess, an explorer to a homebody, and an introvert to a “people person.” But they agree their vows are for always, children are a gift, and prayer changes everything. Joanna is the co-author of Powerful Prayers for Your Son, Mr. & Mrs.: 366 Devotions for Couples, and a variety of other resources for couples and parents. She looks forward to meeting you at growinghometogether.com.