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  11. <title>Faro de Luz</title>
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  14. <description>Una Familia Lejos de tu Familia </description>
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  25. <title>Faro de Luz</title>
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  31. <title>Building Confession Over Concealment in Your Family</title>
  32. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  34. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  35. <pubDate>Thu, 22 Jun 2023 21:19:19 +0000</pubDate>
  36. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  37. <category><![CDATA[Trish Newbery]]></category>
  38. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/?p=29972</guid>
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  59. <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>&nbsp;</p>
  60. <p>Every parent wants their kid to come to us on their best day and their worst day. On their worst day, we want our kids to confess instead of conceal what is happening in their lives. This is easier said than done, but here are three keys to foster confession over concealment in your home.</p>
  61. <p>1. Make Everything Discussable</p>
  62. <p>In our home, we have several rules and boundaries. One of the rules we tell our kids often is that everything is discussable and nothing is off limits. We tell them, “If you want to talk about something, just ask us.” Doing this has led to some great conversations in our home. We also have a key phrase that we use when our kids want to talk but are unsure of how to start the conversation. Our key phrase is “pots and pans,” and when they come up and use the phrase, we ask when they want to talk. Making everything discussable can be scary, but worth every second to foster confession over concealment.</p>
  63. <p>2. Model Vulnerability</p>
  64. <p>My oldest son was really struggling with school last year and we were not sure he was going to move on to the next grade. In talking about working hard, I was reminded of a time in seventh grade when I was failing math. I shared with him how I felt so dumb and how my teacher made me feel small because I couldn&#8217;t figure it out. After sharing this with him, he told me that’s exactly how his teacher made him feel. Because I was vulnerable, he opened up and talked even more.</p>
  65. <p>3. Build a Safe Home With Your Words</p>
  66. <p>Your words create worlds for your children and what we say and how we say it matters deeply. If you consistently respond negatively when your kids mess up, you create a home where failure is not allowed. If your words are passive-aggressive towards conflict, then your children may begin to avoid conversations with you. To build a safe home with our words, we must take an inventory and evaluate how words foster a safe place for open conversation. A starting place is to ask yourself: Do your words connect more than they correct?</p>
  67. <p>DIG DEEPER</p>
  68. <p>1 John 1:9 says, &#8220;If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.&#8221;</p>
  69. <p>Remind your family that God wants all His children to come to Him with an honest heart and that includes parents. Confession is a response to God&#8217;s incredible love for all of us and He is faithful when we turn to Him.</p>
  70. <ol>
  71. <li>Rate yourself: Do your words Connect more than they Correct?</li>
  72. <li>In what ways could you connect more with your (child)ren in order to create a safe space for confession?</li>
  73. <li>Do you model vulnerability and confession to your family?</li>
  74. <li>Is there a keyword or phrase you can adopt as a safe word to help promote conversation about a hard topic or confession?</li>
  75. </ol>
  76. <p>Visit <a href="https://empoweredhomes.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">empoweredhomes.org</a> for more great tips on healthy parenting.</p>
  77. <p>&nbsp;</p></div>
  78. </div>
  79. </div>
  84. </div>
  87. </div>
  88. ]]></content:encoded>
  92. </item>
  93. <item>
  94. <title>5 Ways for Your Family To Share The Love of Jesus With Others</title>
  95. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  97. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  98. <pubDate>Wed, 08 Feb 2023 18:38:21 +0000</pubDate>
  99. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  100. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  101. <category><![CDATA[Discipling Kids]]></category>
  102. <category><![CDATA[Family]]></category>
  103. <category><![CDATA[Family Values]]></category>
  104. <category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
  105. <category><![CDATA[Raising Kids]]></category>
  106. <category><![CDATA[Show Up]]></category>
  107. <category><![CDATA[Spiritual Practices]]></category>
  108. <category><![CDATA[Truth]]></category>
  109. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/?p=28050</guid>
  110.  
  111. <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
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  120. <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_1  et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child">
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  130. <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><div class="fusion-text fusion-text-1" style="--awb-text-transform: none;">
  131. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  132. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" style="--fontsize: 18; line-height: 1.5; --minfontsize: 18;" data-fontsize="18" data-lineheight="27px">There once lived a woman who loved others so well that her legacy has impacted generations.  Mother Teresa once wrote, “People who love each other fully and truly are the happiest people in the world. They may have little, they may have nothing, but they are happy people. Everything depends on how we love one another.”  This remarkable woman modelled her life after one greater than herself, Jesus.</p>
  133. </div>
  134. <div class="fusion-text fusion-text-2" style="--awb-text-transform: none;">
  135. <p style="font-weight: 400;">Jesus was once asked what the greatest commandment was.  He responded, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. This is the first and most important commandment. The second most important commandment is like this one. And it is, “Love others as much as you love yourself.” Matt. 12:  37-39</p>
  136. <p style="font-weight: 400;">It makes sense, as Christian parents, that we teach our children the importance of loving God and loving others.  Putting God’s love into practice through simple family practices is the surest way to show children the power of God’s love at work.</p>
  137. </div>
  138. <div class="fusion-text fusion-text-3" style="--awb-text-transform: none;">
  139. <p><strong>Here are five ways your family can share the love of Jesus with others.</strong></p>
  140. </div>
  141. <div class="fusion-text fusion-text-4" style="--awb-text-transform: none;">
  142. <p><strong>1. Teach your children the importance of courtesy.</strong></p>
  143. <p>Courtesy is defined as showing politeness in one’s attitude and behaviour toward others.  When children understand the importance of sensitivity to other’s needs, they are learning the act of selfless love.  Model courtesy in and outside of your home and encourage your children to do the same.</p>
  144. <p style="font-weight: 400;">Courtesy looks like showing respect for others, apologizing when you have done something wrong, using good manners (saying please, thank you), not embarrassing others, being honest, respecting elders (holding open doors, engaging in appropriate conversation), good table manners and respecting others property.  Paying attention to the simple courtesies of life is an example of God’s love.</p>
  145. </div>
  146. <div class="fusion-text fusion-text-5" style="--awb-text-transform: none;">
  147. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>2. Find out the need of another family/friend and meet that need.</strong></p>
  148. <p style="font-weight: 400;">For most of my early childhood I lived in a single parent home.  My mother was the sole caregiver and provider for our home and I remember one time coming home and finding bags of groceries sitting at our doorstep. We never knew where this generous gift came from but seeing this incredible act of kindness left an impression on me that we were loved and not forgotten.</p>
  149. <p style="font-weight: 400;">When you and your family see a need (it doesn’t have to be big), take the opportunity to express God’s love by responding to it.  It could be as simple as cutting a neighbours lawn when they are recovering from a surgery or prepping a meal for a family going through financial difficulties.  Involving your children in these simple acts will leave a lasting impression.</p>
  150. </div>
  151. <div class="fusion-text fusion-text-6" style="--awb-text-transform: none;">
  152. <p style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>3. Support an outreach mission and have your family get involved. </strong></p>
  153. <p style="font-weight: 400;">There are many ways to support local and international ministries.  Collect donations for the local foodbank.  Raise money for an organization that your family is passionate about.</p>
  154. <p style="font-weight: 400;">Here are some Alliance Initiatives to consider supporting:</p>
  155. <ul style="font-weight: 400;">
  156. <li>International Workers:  <a href="https://thealliancecanada.ca/product-category/international-workers/">https://thealliancecanada.ca/product-category/international-workers/</a></li>
  157. <li>Alliance Projects/Funds:  <a href="https://thealliancecanada.ca/product-category/international-workers/">https://thealliancecanada.ca/product-category/international-workers/</a></li>
  158. <li>Justice and Compassion Funds:  <a href="https://thealliancecanada.ca/product-category/international-workers/">https://thealliancecanada.ca/product-category/international-workers/</a></li>
  159. <li>Canadian New Ministry Ventures:  <a href="https://thealliancecanada.ca/product-category/international-workers/">https://thealliancecanada.ca/product-category/international-workers/</a></li>
  160. </ul>
  161. </div>
  162. <div class="fusion-text fusion-text-7" style="--awb-text-transform: none;">
  163. <p><b>4. Write cards, draw artwork or create care packages for the local seniors/retirement community. </b></p>
  164. <p>Statistics show that seniors living in care facilities experience higher rates of severe loneliness than those older people living in community-dwelling populations.   Bring joy to their day but showing them that they are loved and not forgotten.</p>
  165. </div>
  166. <div class="fusion-text fusion-text-8" style="--awb-text-transform: none;">
  167. <p><b>5. Begin a prayer journal with your children.  </b></p>
  168. <p>There is nothing more exciting than seeing God at work through the power of prayer.Create a daily routine of praying together by writing down the prayer requests of those you love and pray as a family daily for those needs.  Celebrate God’s answer to those prayers.  Here is a great family prayer journal to get you started:  <a title="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/737157744/our-family-prayer-journal" href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/737157744/our-family-prayer-journal">https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/737157744/our-family-prayer-journal</a></p>
  169. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  170. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  171. </div>
  172. <p><strong>About the Author: <a href="http://farodeluz.ca/category/bya-blog/stephanie-holmberg/">stephanie holmberg</a></strong></p>
  173. <p>Stephanie is a wife, mother, pastor, and friend who is passionate about seeing people live authentic, purpose-filled lives. When not working alongside her amazing kidmin team, you will find her at home spending time with her family, snuggling her furry friend Milo, or out exploring all the amazing places Edmonton has to offer.</p></div>
  174. </div>
  175. </div>
  180. </div>
  183. </div>
  184. ]]></content:encoded>
  188. </item>
  189. <item>
  190. <title>5 Tips To Manage Your Family’s Digital Use</title>
  191. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  193. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  194. <pubDate>Mon, 09 Jan 2023 20:54:25 +0000</pubDate>
  195. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  196. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  197. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/?p=28081</guid>
  198.  
  199. <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
  200. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_2 et_section_regular" >
  207. <div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_2">
  208. <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_2  et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child">
  213. <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_2  et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light">
  218. <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><div class="fusion-text fusion-text-1">
  219. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="18" data-lineheight="27px"><strong>What does a healthy media life look like for your family?  How can you manage online time for your children well?  Here are 5 handy tips to help manage your family’s digital use.</strong></p>
  220. <p data-fontsize="18" data-lineheight="27px">
  221. </div>
  222. <div>
  223. <h3 class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="30" data-lineheight="45px"><strong><span class="xcontentpasted0">1. Create a media use plan for your family. </span></strong></h3>
  224. </div>
  225. <div>
  226. <div>
  227. <p><span class="xcontentpasted0">It’s very easy for on-screen time to get out of control.  Help create a healthy balance by implementing a family digital device agreement.  Here is KidZone’s device agreement to get you started: <a href="http://farodeluz.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/2023-DIGITAL-DEVICE-AGREEMENT.pdf">http://farodeluz.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/2023-DIGITAL-DEVICE-AGREEMENT.pdf </a></span></p>
  228. </div>
  229. </div>
  230. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  231. <div>
  232. <h3 class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="30" data-lineheight="45px"><strong><span class="xcontentpasted0">2. Provide reasonable restrictions for media use. </span></strong></h3>
  233. <div>
  234. <p><span class="xcontentpasted0"> </span><span class="xcontentpasted0">Shockingly, the average age a child views pornographic images for the first time is at the age of seven.  Mature content providers are aware that if they hook a child on sexually explicit or violent content at a young age, they will more likely have them as a user of their content as they age.  Help prevent this by adding parental controls to all your media devices.   This article will provide you with some excellent parental control options:  </span><a title="https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-parental-control-software" contenteditable="false" href="https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-parental-control-software" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-parental-control-software</a><span class="xcontentpasted0"> </span></p>
  235. </div>
  236. </div>
  237. <p><span class="xcontentpasted0"><strong>3. </strong><strong>Be aware of what your children are watching. </strong></span></p>
  238. <div>
  239. <p><span class="xcontentpasted0">An informed parent is a wise parent.  Make yourself aware of what content your child is streaming.  Know what the popular TikTok trends, YouTube channels, and video games are.  </span><a title="https://www.pluggedin.com/" contenteditable="false" href="https://www.pluggedin.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Focus on the Family’s PluggedIn</a><span class="xcontentpasted0"> is an excellent, up-to-date website that can help keep you informed.   </span></p>
  240. </div>
  241. <h3 class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="30" data-lineheight="45px"><strong><span class="xcontentpasted0">4. Encourage Playtime </span></strong></h3>
  242. <div>
  243. <p><span class="xcontentpasted0">Playtime is key to a child’s learning, development, confidence and well-being.   Provide opportunities for structured and unstructured play.   Structured play includes outdoor games, swimming lessons, story time groups, music classes and family board games.  Unstructured play is when children are given space for personal creative play either alone or with others, imaginative play, exploring new places like playgrounds, parks, the backyard etc.  Each day, playtime is essential for healthy child development. </span></p>
  244. </div>
  245. <div class="fusion-text fusion-text-6">
  246. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="30" data-lineheight="45px"><strong><span class="xcontentpasted0">5. Lead by example and participate with them. </span></strong></p>
  247. <div>
  248. <p><span class="xcontentpasted0">Don’t let screen time be alone time.  Spending time with your child during screen time promotes bonding, social interaction and active learning.  Teach your children how to manage technology well so that they can avoid the dangerous pitfalls that some media platforms offer. </span></p>
  249. </div>
  250. </div></div>
  251. </div>
  252. </div>
  257. </div>
  260. </div>
  261. ]]></content:encoded>
  265. </item>
  266. <item>
  267. <title>Five Scriptures to Pray Over Your Children</title>
  268. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  270. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  271. <pubDate>Thu, 10 Nov 2022 21:05:10 +0000</pubDate>
  272. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  273. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  274. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/?p=28090</guid>
  275.  
  276. <description><![CDATA[Praying for your child’s faith: Let _______ keep your words and store up your commands so that s/he will live.  Cause him/her to guard your teachings as the apple of [&#8230;]]]></description>
  277. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="fusion-text fusion-text-1">
  278. <div>
  279. <h3 class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="30" data-lineheight="45px">Praying for your child’s faith:</h3>
  280. <p><span lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"><span class="ContentPasted1">Let _______ keep your words and store up your commands so that s/he will live.  Cause him/her to guard your teachings as the apple of his/her </span><span class="ContentPasted1">eye</span><span class="ContentPasted1">, and</span><span class="ContentPasted1"> let them b</span><span class="ContentPasted1">e</span><span class="ContentPasted1"> written on the tablet of his/her heart.  Proverbs</span><span class="ContentPasted1"> 7:2-3</span></span><span class="ContentPasted1" data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
  281. </div>
  282. </div>
  283. <div class="fusion-text fusion-text-2">
  284. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="30" data-lineheight="45px"><span lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"><span class="ContentPasted1">Praying for your child’s character:</span></span></p>
  285. <p class="xparagraph"><span lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"><span class="ContentPasted1">Give _______ a wise and discerning heart so that s/he can distinguish between right and wrong.  1 Kings 3:9</span><span class="ContentPasted1">,12</span></span><span class="ContentPasted1" data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
  286. </div>
  287. <h3 class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="30" data-lineheight="45px"><span lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"><span class="ContentPasted1">Praying for your child’s safety:</span></span><span class="ContentPasted1" data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></h3>
  288. <div><span lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"><span class="ContentPasted1">Hem _______ in—behind and before; place your hand upon him/her so that wherever s/he goes and </span><span class="ContentPasted1">whatever s/he does, s/he will be accompanied by your presence.  Psalm 139:5-10</span></span><span class="ContentPasted1" data-ccp-props="{}">  </span></div>
  289. <div></div>
  290. <div>
  291. <h3 class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="30" data-lineheight="45px"><span lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"><span class="ContentPasted1">Praying for your child’s relationships:  </span></span></h3>
  292. <p><span lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"><span class="ContentPasted1">I pray that _______ would choose his/her friends carefully, for the way of the wicked leads them astray.  Proverbs 12:26</span></span><span class="ContentPasted1" data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
  293. </div>
  294. <div class="fusion-text fusion-text-5">
  295. <div>
  296. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="30" data-lineheight="45px"><span lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"><span class="ContentPasted1">Praying for your child’s future:</span></span><span class="ContentPasted1" data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
  297. <p><span lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"><span class="ContentPasted1">Thank you that no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what you have prepared for ________</span><span class="ContentPasted1">_ because</span><span class="ContentPasted1"> s/he loves you.  Cause him/her to be willing to wait on you, and act on his/her behalf. </span></span><span lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"><span class="ContentPasted1">1 Corinthians 2</span><span class="ContentPasted1">:9</span></span><span class="ContentPasted1" data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
  298. </div>
  299. </div>
  300. ]]></content:encoded>
  304. </item>
  305. <item>
  306. <title>Go The Distance</title>
  307. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  309. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  310. <pubDate>Thu, 13 Oct 2022 20:17:22 +0000</pubDate>
  311. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  312. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  313. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/?p=28095</guid>
  314.  
  315. <description><![CDATA[In the first 18 years of a child’s life, they will go through more mental and physical changes than at any other time in their lives. Let’s follow a typical [&#8230;]]]></description>
  316. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="fusion-text fusion-text-1">
  317. <p>In the first 18 years of a child’s life, they will go through more mental and physical changes than at any other time in their lives.</p>
  318. <p class="xparagraph"><span class="xnormaltextrun">Let’s follow a typical child’s change timeline: </span><span class="xeop"> </span><span class="xeop"> </span></p>
  319. <p class="xparagraph">1.       <span class="xnormaltextrun">In the first year of life, children have 100 billion neurons (roughly the number of stars in the Milky Way) more than at any other time in their lives.  They double their weight in just one year.</span><span class="xeop"> </span></p>
  320. <p class="xparagraph">2.     <span class="xnormaltextrun">By the age of one and two, they understand roughly 70 words and they learn to walk.</span><span class="xeop"> </span></p>
  321. <p class="xparagraph">3.     <span class="xnormaltextrun">At the age of 3 and 4, they have about one quadrillion connections between their brain cells (twice as many as an adult).</span><span class="xeop"> </span></p>
  322. <p class="xparagraph">4.     <span class="xnormaltextrun">By kindergarten/first grade, they are learning to read, tying their shoes and understanding humor.</span><span class="xeop"> </span></p>
  323. <p class="xparagraph">5.     <span class="xnormaltextrun">At Grades 2 &amp; 3, they begin to categorize information and understand different points of view.  </span><span class="xeop"> </span></p>
  324. <p class="xparagraph">6.     <span class="xnormaltextrun">In the fourth and fifth grades, their attention span increases up to 45 minutes and the average girl begins puberty.</span><span class="xeop"> </span></p>
  325. <p class="xparagraph">7.     <span class="xnormaltextrun">In the sixth grade, the brain undergoes a rapid growth of nerve cells and synapses similar to the first years of life.</span><span class="xeop"> </span></p>
  326. <p class="xparagraph">8.     <span class="xnormaltextrun">In the seventh &amp; eighth grades boys begin puberty and children gain 50% of their ideal adult weight.</span><span class="xeop"> </span></p>
  327. <p class="xparagraph">9.     <span class="xnormaltextrun">The grade 9/10 years we will see the majority of kids develop acne as a result of hormonal changes.</span><span class="xeop"> </span></p>
  328. <p class="xparagraph">10.  <span class="xnormaltextrun">The eleventh grade sees many teens driving a car legally.</span><span class="xeop"> </span></p>
  329. <p class="xparagraph">11.  <span class="xnormaltextrun">During the 18</span><span class="xnormaltextrun"><sup>th</sup></span><span class="xnormaltextrun"> year, your child takes on an adult appearance, but the brain (prefrontal cortex) is still developing and will continue to do so for another 5+ years.</span><span class="xeop"> </span></p>
  330. <p class="xparagraph"><span class="xnormaltextrun"><i>(Info from “It’s Just a Phase So Don’t Miss It, by Reggie Joiner and Kristen Ivy)</i></span><span class="xeop"> </span></p>
  331. </div>
  332. <div class="fusion-reading-box-container reading-box-container-1">
  333. <div class="reading-box">
  334. <div class="reading-box-additional">
  335. <p>Now that’s a lot of change!</p>
  336. </div>
  337. <div class="fusion-clearfix"></div>
  338. </div>
  339. </div>
  340. <div class="fusion-text fusion-text-2">
  341. <p class="xparagraph"><span class="xnormaltextrun">As parents, it’s our job to help them navigate these 18 years with safety and love.  This means, getting into the trenches with them and discovering their world.  Children need parents who understand and are willing to process these feelings and changes without shame.  </span><span class="xeop"> </span></p>
  342. <p class="xparagraph"><span class="xeop"> </span><span class="xnormaltextrun">Regardless of what phase your child is at, the way we respond to these changes and how we meet these basic needs will create a foundation for future relationships.  We want our children to have healthy, productive lives and the start of this is by being there at each stage of life, showing them the way and patiently walking beside them, even when the path is rocky.</span></p>
  343. </div>
  344. <div class="fusion-reading-box-container reading-box-container-2">
  345. <div class="reading-box">
  346. <div class="reading-box-additional">
  347. <p><span class="xnormaltextrun">Ephesians 6:4 says, “Parents, don’t be hard on your children.  Raise them properly.  Teach them and instruct them about the Lord.”  (CEV)</span><span class="xeop"> </span></p>
  348. </div>
  349. <div class="fusion-clearfix"></div>
  350. </div>
  351. </div>
  352. <div class="fusion-text fusion-text-3">
  353. <p class="xparagraph"><span class="xnormaltextrun">No matter what phase of life your child is at, there are always going to be challenges.  How we respond in these growth phases matter.  A child will become angry when we are impatient or trivialize their concerns.  </span><span class="xeop"> </span></p>
  354. <p class="xparagraph"><span class="xnormaltextrun">Remembering that from 0 to 18 years old, children’s bodies are going through many physiological changes that often are reflected in their behaviours.  Knowledge is power when you understand what phase of life they are in.  Don’t react but respond with understanding.  Show up day after day with tender, lovingkindness.  Point them to God’s truth about His purpose and plan for their lives.   Pray for them and with them.  Allow them to express what they think and feel without interrupting.  Gently direct them along the right path and you will have built a strong foundation for a lifetime.</span><span class="xeop"> </span></p>
  355. </div>
  356. ]]></content:encoded>
  360. </item>
  361. <item>
  362. <title>Back To The Basics</title>
  363. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  365. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  366. <pubDate>Thu, 15 Sep 2022 20:30:51 +0000</pubDate>
  367. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  368. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  369. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/?p=28104</guid>
  370.  
  371. <description><![CDATA[Ask any elementary child what the best TikTok content is right now and they will tell you.  Ask a child what their favourite YouTube channel is, they will describe it [&#8230;]]]></description>
  372. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="fusion-text fusion-text-1">
  373. <p>Ask any elementary child what the best TikTok content is right now and they will tell you.  Ask a child what their favourite YouTube channel is, they will describe it to you in detail.  Ask any child what the next big thing is in toy trends and they will excitedly share why they have to have it and how it will make their lives so much more fun!</p>
  374. </div>
  375. <div class="fusion-reading-box-container reading-box-container-2">
  376. <div class="reading-box">
  377. <div class="reading-box-additional">
  378. <p>Maybe you have heard the sayings, “Children are like sponges, they are going to absorb everything that is around them…” or “Children are mirrors, they reflect back to us all we say and do.”</p>
  379. </div>
  380. <div class="fusion-clearfix"></div>
  381. </div>
  382. </div>
  383. <div class="fusion-text fusion-text-2">
  384. <p>We like those sayings because they encapsulate the innocence of children and remind us how careful we need to be in what we model to them.  The thing is, our children are way more influenced by outside forces than we could ever imagine.</p>
  385. <p>Our job as parents is to be the gatekeeper to these influences.  We may do our best to buffer some of the toxic waste out there but at some point, our kids will come face to face with it and have to choose how they will respond.  And this is where the greatest offence comes in…how we prepare our kids for what the world offers.</p>
  386. <p>As a children’s pastor, I have spent hundreds of hours with children.  We prepare great programming that we pray will light a spark for Jesus in their hearts.  We are always pointing the children back to the Bible but here is where it gets complicated…some children know that the Bible is God’s Word, but most don’t know anything else about it.  The Old Testament and New Testament, chapter and verse are foreign concepts to them.  Bible illiteracy has quickly become the norm.</p>
  387. <p>In 2020, the United Kingdom Bible Society surveyed British children and found many could not identify common Bible stories. When given a list of stories, almost 1 in 3 didn’t choose the Nativity as part of the Bible and over half (59 percent) didn’t know that Jonah being swallowed by the great fish is in the Bible.</p>
  388. <p>British parents didn’t do much better. Around 30 percent of parents don’t know Adam and Eve, David and Goliath, or the Good Samaritan are in the Bible. To make matters worse, 27 percent think Superman is or might be a biblical story. More than 1 in 3 believes the same about Harry Potter. And more than half (54 percent) believe <em>The Hunger Games</em> is or might be a story from the Bible.</p>
  389. </div>
  390. <div class="fusion-reading-box-container reading-box-container-3">
  391. <div class="reading-box">
  392. <div class="reading-box-additional">
  393. <p>How do we help kids navigate biblical truth from fiction?  How do we prepare them to respond well to a world that is dishing out many options, both good and bad?</p>
  394. </div>
  395. <div class="fusion-clearfix"></div>
  396. </div>
  397. </div>
  398. <div class="fusion-text fusion-text-3">
  399. <p>Here’s the answer, we point our children to Jesus and teach them the living Word of God found in the Bible.  The Bible is the foundation of the Christian faith.  And whether we choose to read its pages or open up the latest Bible app…it is there where we find God’s answers for today’s questions.</p>
  400. <p>So how do we conquer biblical illiteracy with our kids?  Here are some ways to get you started:</p>
  401. </div>
  402. <div class="fusion-reading-box-container reading-box-container-4">
  403. <div class="reading-box">
  404. <div class="reading-box-additional">
  405. <p>1. Read the Bible together as a family.</p>
  406. <p>Find a short passage of scripture (remember this is not to be exhaustive), and read it together.  Ask your children some questions to help them process what they just heard:  What stood out to you?  What confused you?  How can you apply this to your life?</p>
  407. <p>2. Read separately and discuss together.</p>
  408. <p>Have your children who are at a higher reading level spend some time reading the passage during the day on their time and then discuss it together later at the dinner table.</p>
  409. <p>3. Tape Scripture to your kid’s bathroom mirrors.</p>
  410. <p>Every day they will be reminded of strong biblical truths as they go about their hygiene activities.</p>
  411. <p>4. Find a cool Bible that you kids will enjoy reading.</p>
  412. <p>There are so many options to choose from:  comic book bibles, colouring book bibles…</p>
  413. </div>
  414. </div>
  415. </div>
  416. ]]></content:encoded>
  420. </item>
  421. <item>
  422. <title>4 Ways to Teach Your Kids About Kindness</title>
  423. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  425. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  426. <pubDate>Sun, 14 Aug 2022 20:21:51 +0000</pubDate>
  427. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  428. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  429. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/?p=28099</guid>
  430.  
  431. <description><![CDATA[Has your family ever taken a challenge to engage in random acts of kindness? That’s an exciting way to bless strangers and spread joy where it’s needed most; however, kindness [&#8230;]]]></description>
  432. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="fusion-text fusion-text-1">
  433. <p class="paragraph"><span class="TextRun SCXW118994403 BCX4" lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118994403 BCX4">Has your family ever taken a challenge to engage in random acts of kindness? That’s an exciting way to bless strangers and spread joy where it’s needed most; however, kindness is meant to be much more than a random act. As Christians, we’re to strive for </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW118994403 BCX4" lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118994403 BCX4">regular </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW118994403 BCX4" lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118994403 BCX4">acts of kindness— habits of compassion, empathy, and selflessness that become ingrained in everyday life. Colossians 3:12 uses the imagery of clothing ourselves in kindness (as well as mercy, humility, gentleness, and patience). Use these family activities to teach the value of “wearing” kindness everywhere.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW118994403 BCX4" data-ccp-props="{"> </span></p>
  434. </div>
  435. <div class="fusion-reading-box-container reading-box-container-1">
  436. <div class="reading-box">
  437. <div class="reading-box-additional">
  438. <p><strong>A Kind Touch:</strong> Play a kind version of Tag, with “It” using a feather to tag people out. When someone is out, another player can give them a hug or high-five to bring them back in. Afterwards, talk about the kind actions on display in the game— and how your family can put them into practice in daily life.</p>
  439. <p><strong>Seeing As God Sees:</strong> Play dress-up, with a few family members in fancy clothes and jewellery, and others trying to look dishevelled. Model your outfits. Then ask: “Who would you rather have as a friend? Why do we tend to treat certain people differently? Has your opinion about someone ever changed after you got to know them? Explain.” Read aloud James 2:1-5. Ask: “How does God want us to treat people, no matter what they look like? How can we change someone’s life through kindness?”</p>
  440. <p><strong>“Mirror, Mirror”:</strong> Read Colossians 3:17. Say: “Whatever we do or say, we can represent Jesus.” Give each family member an inexpensive pocket mirror. Use permanent markers to write the words of the Bible verse around the edges. Decorate the back of the mirror with words or pictures that remind you to be kind like Jesus.</p>
  441. <p><strong>Scoops of Kindness:</strong> Use plastic scoops for outdoor play, or make one by cutting two inches off the bottom of milk jugs. Take turns scooping a tennis ball high in the air, so another family member can catch it. Before each toss, shout out one way to show kindness to someone. Afterwards, review all the examples you shared and read aloud 1 John 4:19-21. Say: “God wants us to love others, and one way we do that is through acts of kindness. We can be loving and kind to one another because God loved us first!”</p>
  442. </div>
  443. </div>
  444. </div>
  445. ]]></content:encoded>
  449. </item>
  450. <item>
  451. <title>5 DIY Water Games to Keep Your Family Cool This Summer</title>
  452. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  454. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  455. <pubDate>Thu, 14 Jul 2022 20:34:28 +0000</pubDate>
  456. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  457. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  458. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/?p=28107</guid>
  459.  
  460. <description><![CDATA[1.  Water Bottle Spray Tag: Grab one of your water bottles hanging around your house, fill it up, and gather your family outside for a wet and fun game of tag! [&#8230;]]]></description>
  461. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="18" data-lineheight="27px"><strong><span class="TextRun SCXW30817988 BCX4" lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW30817988 BCX4" data-ccp-parastyle="No Spacing">1.  Water Bottle Spray Tag:</span></span> </strong>Grab one of your water bottles hanging around your house, fill it up, and gather your family outside for a wet and fun game of tag!</p>
  462. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="18" data-lineheight="27px"><strong>2.  DIY Sprinkler:</strong> <span class="TextRun SCXW30817988 BCX4" lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW30817988 BCX4" data-ccp-parastyle="No Spacing">Take an empty 2 litre bottle used for pop and have your kids poke holes in it.  Attach the open end of your bottle to your garden house using duct tape and turn the tap on! </span></span></p>
  463. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="18" data-lineheight="27px"><strong><span class="TextRun SCXW30817988 BCX4" lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW30817988 BCX4" data-ccp-parastyle="No Spacing">3.  DIY Water Blob: </span></span></strong><span class="TextRun SCXW30817988 BCX4" lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW30817988 BCX4" data-ccp-parastyle="No Spacing">Your kids will love rolling around on this modern version of a </span><span class="NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed SCXW30817988 BCX4" data-ccp-parastyle="No Spacing">water bed</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW30817988 BCX4" data-ccp-parastyle="No Spacing">.  </span></span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW30817988 BCX4" title="https://www.clumsycrafter.com/water-blob-tutorial/" contenteditable="false" href="https://www.clumsycrafter.com/water-blob-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW30817988 BCX4" lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW30817988 BCX4" data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">https://www.clumsycrafter.com/water-blob-tutorial/</span></span></a></p>
  464. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="18" data-lineheight="27px"><strong><span class="TextRun SCXW30817988 BCX4" lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW30817988 BCX4" data-ccp-parastyle="No Spacing">4. Experiment with Water Filtration</span></span>: </strong>STEM water activities are fun, educational, and perfect for summer time exploration! Scoop up water from a creek or lake, then see how different types of filtration work. <a href="https://teachbesideme.com/water-filtration-experiment/">https://teachbesideme.com/water-filtration-experiment/</a></p>
  465. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="18" data-lineheight="27px"><span class="TextRun SCXW30817988 BCX4" lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW30817988 BCX4" data-ccp-parastyle="No Spacing">5. Nighttime Water Balloon Fight: Light up the night and splash each other with these fun glows in the dark water balloons.  <a class="Hyperlink SCXW30817988 BCX4" title="https://www.thescrapshoppeblog.com/glow-in-dark-water-balloons/" contenteditable="false" href="https://www.thescrapshoppeblog.com/glow-in-dark-water-balloons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW30817988 BCX4" lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="none">https://www.thescrapshoppeblog.com/glow-in-dark-water-balloons/</span></a><span class="EOP SCXW30817988 BCX4" data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></span></span></p>
  466. ]]></content:encoded>
  470. </item>
  471. <item>
  472. <title>Top 10 Unique Places to Visit in Edmonton with Your Kids</title>
  473. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  475. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  476. <pubDate>Wed, 15 Jun 2022 20:43:44 +0000</pubDate>
  477. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  478. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  479. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/?p=28113</guid>
  480.  
  481. <description><![CDATA[1. NEON SIGN MUSEUM: Located outdoors and, thus, free of charge, this first-of-its-kind museum in Canada is home to 20 functional historic signs that tell the story of Edmonton’s “neon” past. It’s [&#8230;]]]></description>
  482. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="14" data-lineheight="21px"><strong>1. <a href="https://www.edmonton.ca/city_government/edmonton_archives/neon-sign-museum">NEON SIGN MUSEUM</a>: </strong>Located outdoors and, thus, free of charge, this first-of-its-kind museum in Canada is home to 20 functional historic signs that tell the story of Edmonton’s “neon” past. It’s always “open” and is located on the east wall of the TELUS building and the south wall of the Mercer Warehouse building on 104 Street and 104 Avenue.</p>
  483. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="14" data-lineheight="21px"><strong>2. <a href="https://yegscoot.com/book-your-scoot/">YEG SCOOT TOUR</a>: </strong>Edmonton is one of the few cities in Canada that allow scooters to be operated throughout the city, and they are really fun to ride! But besides renting them by the minute, you can also join a tour with YEG Scoot tours and get a guided scooter tour around the city and the river valley. They offer a number of different tours, including a Wanderlust Picnic tour, and make it easier to explore the city, especially if it’s your first time on a scooter.</p>
  484. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="14" data-lineheight="21px"><strong>3. <a href="https://www.ukrainianvillage.ca/">UKRAINIAN CULTURAL HERITAGE VILLAGE</a>: </strong>Located 25 minutes east of Edmonton, this open-air museum houses refurbished buildings from east-central Alberta that tell the tale of early Ukrainian settlement in Alberta from 1892 to 1930. These early settlers made a significant impact on Alberta’s identity and the museum, which opened in the 70s, showcases the stories of survival and perseverance through more than 35 restored historic buildings and costumed interpreters. The delicious Ukrainian food available at the concession is worth the drive alone.</p>
  485. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="14" data-lineheight="21px"><strong>4. <a href="https://albertarailwaymuseum.com/">ALBERTA RAILWAY MUSEUM</a>: </strong>Located in Northern Edmonton, the Alberta Railway Museum features a selection of still-operating and static locomotives and rolling stock. Founded in 1976 to preserve the province’s rich railway heritage, the museum features more than 75 engines and railcars, a number of original railway buildings, and many related artifacts. One of the highlights of visiting is having the chance to ride on one of the trains during the summer months.</p>
  486. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="14" data-lineheight="21px"><strong>5. <a href="http://www.edmonton-radial-railway.ab.ca/highlevelbridge/">HIGH LEVEL BRIDGE STREETCAR</a>: </strong>The High Level Bridge Streetcar is an important component of the city’s heritage. Streetcars were first introduced to Edmonton in 1908, and the city became famous for its unique streetcar ride over the North Saskatchewan River, one of the highest river crossings by a streetcar in the world. The streetcar’s rich and colourful history can be explored in the small streetcar museum in the Streetcar Barn at Strathcona, which features old photographs and pictures, uniforms, tickets, and several streetcar models. Visitors can enjoy a ride on the fully restored 1912 Edmonton Streetcar #33 across the High Level Bridge and take in the beautiful views.</p>
  487. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="14" data-lineheight="21px"><strong>6. <a href="https://www.rivervalleyadventure.com/">RIVER VALLEY ADVENTURE CO.</a>: </strong>River Valley Adventure Co. offers a range of guided tours throughout Edmonton, and they also provide sports equipment for visitors’ use on self-guided tours. The company offers a Segway tours through Edmonton’s urban parkland and a variety of sporting equipment such as badminton and volleyball sets, footballs, and croquet and bocce sets to enjoy with your family, as well as a range of fishing equipment to use on the river. Relax at the Urban Green Café over freshly brewed coffee and sustainable snacks after your outdoor adventure.</p>
  488. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="14" data-lineheight="21px"><strong>7. <a href="https://rutherfordhouse.ca/">RUTHERFORD HOUSE PROVINCIAL HISTORIC SITE</a>: </strong>Once the home of Alexander Cameron Rutherford, the first Premier of Alberta, Rutherford House Provincial Historic Site has been beautifully restored to its former glory and is now open for the public to explore and enjoy. The exquisite home, which was built in the Edwardian era, is fully furnished with unique antiques and vintage décor. Costumed interpreters lead visitors on guided tours through its hallowed halls to experience what life was like in the early 1900s. Named after the white lilacs planted in the estate’s magnificent garden, The Lilac Tree Museum gift shop has a selection of gifts, memorabilia, and home décor items to browse and purchase and is open during the same hours as the museum.</p>
  489. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="14" data-lineheight="21px"><strong>8. <a href="http://www.swefm.ca/">SOUTHWEST EDMONTON FARMERS’ MARKET</a>: </strong>The Southwest Edmonton Farmers’ Market is a famous farmer’s market that supports local farmers, artisans, and producers and provides fresh, locally grown, and sustainable produce to residents and visitors of Edmonton. The market is home to an incredible spectrum of vendors selling their wares, from artisans and craftspeople to local farmer’s selling fresh fruit and vegetables. You can also find charcuterie and cheeses, buskers, food trucks, and bakers boasting warm bread and freshly baked pastries. Visitors can enjoy nutrition tours around the market, learning all about the healthiest foods to choose, and a special Sprouts Kid’s Club is designed to introduce children to healthy foods and empower and encourage them to make healthy eating choices and decisions when it comes to food.</p>
  490. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="14" data-lineheight="21px"><strong>9. <a href="https://www.oldstrathconamall.com/">OLD STRATHCONA ANTIQUE MALL</a>: </strong>The Old Strathcona Antique Mall is the place to go to find both old and new treasures.  Featuring over 300 booths and over 130 antique dealers selling the finest antiques and collectibles, the market has been running for 16 years, and it continues to be one of the city’s most popular attractions. The market has an old-fashioned café where you can relax over some home-baked goodies, local ice cream, and freshly brewed coffee.</p>
  491. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="14" data-lineheight="21px"><strong>10. <a href="https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/elkisland">ELK ISLAND NATIONAL PARK</a>: </strong>Spanning 75 square miles (194 square kilometres), Elk Island is the largest fully enclosed park in Canada. It is home to a variety of diverse ecosystems and habitats, including native grasslands, northern prairies, boreal forests, and aspen park lands. The park is a wildlife haven, and it is the best place to see the world’s largest and smallest mammals – the wood bison and the tiny pygmy shrew. Visitors to the park can enjoy an array of activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, camping, kayaking/canoeing, and golfing in the summer, while the winter provides snow thick enough for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.</p>
  492. ]]></content:encoded>
  496. </item>
  497. <item>
  498. <title>A Prayer for the Frustrated Parent</title>
  499. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  501. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  502. <pubDate>Thu, 19 May 2022 20:39:40 +0000</pubDate>
  503. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  504. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  505. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/?p=28110</guid>
  506.  
  507. <description><![CDATA[If you are a parent, you have probably had at least one moment of frustration this week.  It happens…you step on that piece of Lego, your little one has discovered [&#8230;]]]></description>
  508. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="fusion-text fusion-text-1">
  509. <h6 class="paragraph fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="16" data-lineheight="28px"><span class="normaltextrun">If you are a parent, you have probably had at least one moment of frustration this week.  It happens…you step on that piece of Lego, your little one has discovered the bag of flour and has had a party with it, you are tired, irritated, and you feel that there is no end in sight to the craziness of your day.  </span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  510. <h6 class="paragraph fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="16" data-lineheight="28px"><span class="normaltextrun">When things get to this point how do you press pause, and recalibrate your mind and emotions?  Jesus is there in those moments, and he wants to give you his perspective and peace.  Find a quiet space (if possible) and pray this prayer. Allow his presence to calm you so that you can ease back into your day with a fresh outlook.</span></h6>
  511. </div>
  512. <div class="fusion-reading-box-container reading-box-container-1">
  513. <div class="reading-box">
  514. <div class="reading-box-additional">
  515. <h3 class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="30" data-lineheight="45px">“Father, may I not react in this moment in the blindness of my own emotions.  Rather, help me to see my children as you see me, a sinner in need of grace.  Help me to respond with a perspective that is not reactive and oblivious to the truth.  Instead, give me wisdom and patience to shepherd my child’s heart toward your mercy and ways.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.”</h3>
  516. </div>
  517. <div class="fusion-clearfix"></div>
  518. </div>
  519. </div>
  520. <div class="fusion-text fusion-text-2">
  521. <h6 class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="16" data-lineheight="28px"><span class="normaltextrun"><i>In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. (Romans 8:26-27)</i></span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  522. </div>
  523. ]]></content:encoded>
  527. </item>
  528. <item>
  529. <title>Just Listen</title>
  530. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  532. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  533. <pubDate>Wed, 13 Apr 2022 20:47:31 +0000</pubDate>
  534. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  535. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  536. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/?p=28116</guid>
  537.  
  538. <description><![CDATA[I remember the conversation as if it was yesterday.  I had the opportunity to meet with a prominent Christian leader and I couldn’t wait to soak in his wisdom.  As [&#8230;]]]></description>
  539. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="fusion-text fusion-text-1">
  540. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="16" data-lineheight="28px">I remember the conversation as if it was yesterday.  I had the opportunity to meet with a prominent Christian leader and I couldn’t wait to soak in his wisdom.  As our time together began, I remember feeling instantly at ease with him.  He was kind and attentive and began to ask questions about my life.  He actively listened to me as if what I was sharing had value to him.  His responses were well-timed and even though he didn’t say too much, I felt heard, encouraged and enriched by his wisdom.  As our conversation neared its end, I remarked how I felt like I talked his ear off.  He smiled and simply shared that people need to be seen and heard.  It’s in those moments that God imparts exactly what the person needs to know.  We just have to be still enough to listen.</p>
  541. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="16" data-lineheight="28px">Listening well is a discipline.  Modelling attentiveness to our children when there are so many distractions can be difficult but they need to feel seen and heard.  As parents, we have the unique privilege of being that sounding board for our kids. Listening to our kids is an important part of their development.   Here are some tips to get you started…</p>
  542. </div>
  543. <div class="reading-box">
  544. <div class="reading-box-additional">
  545. <ol>
  546. <li>
  547. <h3 class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="30" data-lineheight="45px">When you listen well, you communicate safety.</h3>
  548. </li>
  549. <li>
  550. <h3 class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="30" data-lineheight="45px">Use the phrase, “Tell me more…” Stop filling in the blanks for your kids and let them discover for themselves the answers by guiding them with good questions and prompts.</h3>
  551. </li>
  552. <li>
  553. <h3 class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="30" data-lineheight="45px">Watch your tone.  What we say matters but how we say it matters more.</h3>
  554. </li>
  555. <li>
  556. <h3 class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="30" data-lineheight="45px">Make eye contact.  Looking your child in the eyes tells them that they have your undivided attention.</h3>
  557. </li>
  558. <li>
  559. <h3 class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="30" data-lineheight="45px">Mirror their comments.  Repeat what your child is saying so that clarity can be given if needed.</h3>
  560. </li>
  561. <li>
  562. <h3 class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="30" data-lineheight="45px">Give appropriate physical touch.  Sometimes a soft touch of the shoulder, or holding their hand emphasizes that you are listening.</h3>
  563. </li>
  564. <li>
  565. <h3 class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="30" data-lineheight="45px">Give thoughtful responses.  Don’t use clichés.  They need to know that you believe what you are saying.  Pat answers do not work.</h3>
  566. </li>
  567. </ol>
  568. </div>
  569. <div class="fusion-clearfix"></div>
  570. </div>
  571. <div class="fusion-text fusion-text-2">
  572. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="16" data-lineheight="28px">Practice active listening daily with your kids.  They need to know that you truly see and hear them.</p>
  573. </div>
  574. ]]></content:encoded>
  578. </item>
  579. <item>
  580. <title>Asking For A Friend</title>
  581. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  583. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  584. <pubDate>Sat, 19 Mar 2022 18:00:13 +0000</pubDate>
  585. <category><![CDATA[Sermon Series]]></category>
  586. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/?p=25667</guid>
  587.  
  588. <description><![CDATA[Asking For A Friend is all about wrestling with the awkward and uncomfortable. It is time to ask the questions we all wonder about, but no one wants to ask. [&#8230;]]]></description>
  589. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img decoding="async" src="http://farodeluz.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Asking-For-A-Friend-R.jpeg" /></p>
  590. <h4>Asking For A Friend is all about wrestling with the awkward and uncomfortable.</h4>
  591. <p>It is time to ask the questions we all wonder about, but no one wants to ask. As we dig into these topics, we remember there is freedom in walking with Jesus!</p>
  592. <h3 style="text-align: center;">QUESTIONS? | <a href="mailto:&#105;nf&#111;&#64;&#98;e&#117;&#108;&#97;h.c&#97;" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span style="color: #000000;">&#73;&#78;&#70;&#79;&#64;BEUL&#65;H&#46;C&#65;</span> </a></h3>
  593. ]]></content:encoded>
  597. </item>
  598. <item>
  599. <title>Creating Family Values</title>
  600. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  602. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  603. <pubDate>Tue, 15 Mar 2022 04:09:10 +0000</pubDate>
  604. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  605. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  606. <category><![CDATA[Discipling Kids]]></category>
  607. <category><![CDATA[Family]]></category>
  608. <category><![CDATA[Family Values]]></category>
  609. <category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
  610. <category><![CDATA[Raising Kids]]></category>
  611. <category><![CDATA[Show Up]]></category>
  612. <category><![CDATA[Spiritual Practices]]></category>
  613. <category><![CDATA[Truth]]></category>
  614. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/2022/03/15/creating-family-values/</guid>
  615.  
  616. <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
  617. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_3 et_section_regular" >
  624. <div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_3">
  625. <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_3  et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child">
  630. <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_3  et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light">
  635. <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p class="paragraph">After the dedication of his baby brother in church, little Johnny sobbed all the way home in the back seat of the car. His father asked him three times what was wrong. Finally the boy replied, “That pastor said he wanted us brought up in a Christian home, and I want to stay with you guys!”</p>
  636. <p class="paragraph">As Christian parents, we often start off our parenting journey with great intentions; we dedicate our children, we try to live good christian lives and we assume our kids will learn how to live a godly life by osmosis. The thing is, as we and our little ones get older, they begin to evaluate for themselves if we are practicing what we are preaching. Have we modelled an authentic relationship with Jesus and taught them what that looks like?</p>
  637. <p class="paragraph">When it comes to parenting, all of us create family values whether intentional or not. For some, the priority of schooling and achievement is preached through rigorous weekly schedules and high expectations. A child begins to believe they are valuable when they produce good results. Love has to be earned rather than given.</p>
  638. <p class="paragraph">To help curb the unintentional road of negative family values, it is helpful to determine what matters to your family most. Creating clear family values can become a barometer of what spiritual health looks like in your home.</p>
  639. <p class="paragraph">Deuteronomy 6:4-7 provides us with an excellent framework of family values.</p>
  640. <p>“Listen, Israel! The Lord our God is the only true God! So love the Lord God with all your heart, soul, and strength. Memorize his laws and tell them to your children over and over again. Talk about them all the time, whether you’re at home or walking along the road or going to bed at night, or getting up in the morning.”</p>
  641. <p class="paragraph">This passage reminds us to stay focused and keep trying. Valuing our families matters. As you consider what your family values look like, here are 5 things to consider.</p>
  642. <p><strong>1. Focus your priorities on what matters most.</strong></p>
  643. <p>We are only given 936 weeks to raise our children and every moment counts. Parent your children with that end in mind.</p>
  644. <p><strong>2. Communicate in a way that gives the relationship value.</strong></p>
  645. <p>The true value of a child can only be found in Christ and it is our job as parents to communicate that who they are is way more important that what they do.</p>
  646. <p><strong>3. Put yourself first when it comes to personal growth.</strong></p>
  647. <p>Show your children what it means to be a follower of Jesus. Make spiritual disciplines a part of your life.</p>
  648. <p><strong>4. Increase the quantity of quality time you spend together.</strong></p>
  649. <p>Children crave your undivided attention. Schedule time with them where all distractions are removed and they just get you.</p>
  650. <p><strong>5. Pursue strategic relationship for your kids.</strong></p>
  651. <p>Who do you want speaking into your children’s lives? What kind of friendships do you want your children to have? Who do you trust to mentor them?</p>
  652. <p class="paragraph">The journey of parenting has many twists and turns so have your road map ready to go. Partner with those who will champion you along the way. You can do it!</p>
  653. <p><strong><span style="color: #58585a;">About the Author:</span> <span style="color: #00b4ad;"><a style="color: #00b4ad;" href="http://farodeluz.ca/category/bya-blog/stephanie-holmberg/">stephanie holmberg</a></span></strong></p>
  654. <p>Stephanie is a wife, mother, pastor, and friend who is passionate about seeing people live authentic, purpose-filled lives. When not working alongside her amazing kidmin team, you will find her at home spending time with her family, snuggling her furry friend Milo, or out exploring all the amazing places Edmonton has to offer.</p></div>
  655. </div>
  656. </div>
  661. </div>
  664. </div>
  665. ]]></content:encoded>
  669. </item>
  670. <item>
  671. <title>Centennial</title>
  672. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  674. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  675. <pubDate>Sat, 26 Feb 2022 19:00:16 +0000</pubDate>
  676. <category><![CDATA[Sermon Series]]></category>
  677. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/2022/02/26/100series/</guid>
  678.  
  679. <description><![CDATA[Beulah is 100 years old! In this series we are going celebrating the last 100 years and talking about what the start of our next 100 years are going to [&#8230;]]]></description>
  680. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img decoding="async" src="http://farodeluz.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Centennial-R.jpeg" /></p>
  681. <h4>Beulah is 100 years old!</h4>
  682. <p>In this series we are going celebrating the last 100 years and talking about what the start of our next 100 years are going to look like as a multi-generational, multi-ethnic, and multi-campus church awakening Greater Edmonton to King Jesus.</p>
  683. <h3 style="text-align: center;">QUESTIONS? | <a href="mailto:&#105;&#110;f&#111;&#64;&#98;e&#117;lah&#46;ca" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span style="color: #000000;">IN&#70;&#79;&#64;&#66;E&#85;LAH.&#67;&#65;</span> </a></h3>
  684. ]]></content:encoded>
  688. </item>
  689. <item>
  690. <title>4 Ways To Show Up For Your Kids</title>
  691. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  693. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  694. <pubDate>Fri, 18 Feb 2022 21:24:40 +0000</pubDate>
  695. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  696. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  697. <category><![CDATA[Discipling Kids]]></category>
  698. <category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
  699. <category><![CDATA[Raising Kids]]></category>
  700. <category><![CDATA[Show Up]]></category>
  701. <category><![CDATA[Spiritual Practices]]></category>
  702. <category><![CDATA[Truth]]></category>
  703. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/2022/02/18/4-ways-to-show-up-for-your-kids/</guid>
  704.  
  705. <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
  706. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_4 et_section_regular" >
  713. <div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_4">
  714. <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_4  et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child">
  719. <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_4  et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light">
  724. <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p class="paragraph">It had been a long day and I was zoning out on the couch playing some random game on my iPad.  I was tired and all I wanted to do was curl up and have some alone time.  As I settled in for the evening, my son entered the room with some very important news regarding why the Oilers needed a new coach or something along those lines.  I half listened to his very convincing arguments when the room was suddenly silent.  I lifted my eyes from the iPad and saw his disappointment.  He knew I was checked out and in exasperation asked if I was even listening to him and why I couldn’t look him in the eyes when he was talking to me.  He was right&#8230;I was checked out and he deserved better than that.  I apologized for my actions and realized that my attention to what he had to share really mattered.  It wasn’t about the Oilers, it was about him wanting to spend time with me where I was really present.</p>
  725. <p>Have you ever been there?  I think most of us have.</p>
  726. <p class="paragraph">The time we share with our kids matters and they don’t want to be just heard, they want to be seen.  Here are some practical ways where you can show up for your kids throughout the day.  Your intentional presence in their lives is essential.</p>
  727. <p><strong>1. Start off your child’s day with words of encouragement.</strong></p>
  728. <p>Let them know that you will be praying for them.  Tell them what giftings you see in them and more importantly, who God says they are.</p>
  729. <p><strong>2. Connect regularly by scheduling time to eat together.</strong></p>
  730. <p>Some of the best conversations with kids happens around the dinner table.  Ask about their day.  Come ready with an interesting question to kickstart the table chat.  Kids want to know that what they have to say is important to you.</p>
  731. <p><strong>3. At bedtime, talk about their day and help them to see God at work through their circumstances.</strong></p>
  732. <p>Pray with them and for them.  Read a bible story or devotional together and discuss what they learned.</p>
  733. <p><strong>4. Strengthen your relationship by adjusting your plans to show up when they really need you.</strong></p>
  734. <p>Move a meeting so that you can attend their soccer game.  When they know that they are the priority, they feel loved and seen.</p>
  735. <p><strong><span style="color: #58585a;">About the Author:</span> <span style="color: #00b4ad;"><a style="color: #00b4ad;" href="http://farodeluz.ca/category/bya-blog/stephanie-holmberg/">stephanie holmberg</a></span></strong></p>
  736. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  737. <p>Stephanie is a wife, mother, pastor, and friend who is passionate about seeing people live authentic, purpose-filled lives. When not working alongside her amazing kidmin team, you will find her at home spending time with her family, snuggling her furry friend Milo, or out exploring all the amazing places Edmonton has to offer.</div>
  738. </div>
  739. </div>
  744. </div>
  747. </div>
  748. ]]></content:encoded>
  752. </item>
  753. <item>
  754. <title>Hello world!</title>
  755. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  757. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  758. <pubDate>Wed, 16 Feb 2022 18:55:40 +0000</pubDate>
  759. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  760. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/?p=1</guid>
  761.  
  762. <description><![CDATA[Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start writing!]]></description>
  763. <content:encoded><![CDATA[
  764. <p>Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start writing!</p>
  765. ]]></content:encoded>
  769. </item>
  770. <item>
  771. <title>Toxic</title>
  772. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  774. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  775. <pubDate>Sat, 05 Feb 2022 19:00:32 +0000</pubDate>
  776. <category><![CDATA[Sermon Series]]></category>
  777. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/2022/02/05/toxic/</guid>
  778.  
  779. <description><![CDATA[At Beulah, we want to stop the spread of poisonous relationships. How do we do this when there are people around us who drain us, demean us, and distract us [&#8230;]]]></description>
  780. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img decoding="async" src="http://farodeluz.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Toxic-R.jpeg" /></p>
  781. <h4>At Beulah, we want to stop the spread of poisonous relationships.</h4>
  782. <p>How do we do this when there are people around us who drain us, demean us, and distract us from other healthy relationships? What happens if the toxic person is a lifelong friend, relative, or coworker? Aren’t we supposed to reach difficult people as Christians?</p>
  783. <h3 style="text-align: center;">QUESTIONS? | <a href="mailto:i&#110;fo&#64;be&#117;la&#104;&#46;c&#97;" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span style="color: #000000;">IN&#70;&#79;&#64;B&#69;&#85;&#76;AH.CA</span> </a></h3>
  784. ]]></content:encoded>
  788. </item>
  789. <item>
  790. <title>The Power of Encouragement</title>
  791. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  793. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  794. <pubDate>Thu, 13 Jan 2022 22:58:33 +0000</pubDate>
  795. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  796. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  797. <category><![CDATA[Discipling Kids]]></category>
  798. <category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
  799. <category><![CDATA[Raising Kids]]></category>
  800. <category><![CDATA[Spiritual Practices]]></category>
  801. <category><![CDATA[Truth]]></category>
  802. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/2022/01/13/power-of-encouragement/</guid>
  803.  
  804. <description><![CDATA[A recent New Year’s trend involves choosing one word as a theme or focus for the next 12 months. For parents, a great word to choose—and remember regularly—is “encourage.”   At [&#8230;]]]></description>
  805. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">A recent New Year’s trend involves choosing one word as a theme or focus for the next 12 months. For parents, a great word to choose—and remember regularly—is “encourage.” </span></span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  806. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">At times, it seems as if the parental job description involves being children’s #1 fan, but true encouragement goes much deeper than cheerleading. Genuine messages of love and support nurture a child’s sense of safety and well-being. Godly affirmations also build self-worth—one based not on individual merit but on the fact that our heavenly Father created and loves us.</span></span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  807. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Being an encourager also comes with fantastic “perks.” When you lift up others, you too will be uplifted.</span></span></h6>
  808. <p><span style="color: #333333; font-size: 18px;">“He who waters will himself be watered.&#8221;</span></p>
  809. <div class="_3QCsM9-LPIxe1EDTYYKDn0 QMubUjbS-BOly_BTHEZj7 allowTextSelection">
  810. <div lang="en-CA">
  811. <h4 style="text-align: right;">Proverbs 11:25 NASB</h4>
  812. </div>
  813. </div>
  814. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Encouragers follow Jesus’ example of service, humility, and generosity. Like Barnabas—a member of the early Christian community whose name means “son of encouragement” (see Acts 4:36)—you can serve God by selflessly encouraging others.</span></span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  815. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Parents need as much support and encouragement as they can get, too. Seek out other Christian parents so you can give and receive assistance, share insights and ideas, and pray for one another. </span></span><span class="eop"> </span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  816. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Read on to learn how to practice encouragement in your family. </span></span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  817. <p><b><span lang="EN-US">Fill’er Up!</span></b></p>
  818. <div class="_3QCsM9-LPIxe1EDTYYKDn0 QMubUjbS-BOly_BTHEZj7 allowTextSelection">
  819. <div lang="en-CA">
  820. <div>
  821. <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Decorate a glass jar and place it in a special spot in your home. Cut patterned papers into strips, giving family members their own pattern. Starting this January, fill the jar with love notes, Bible verses, quotes, and affirmations for each person. On Valentine’s Day, read the notes as a family. Carry on the tradition at regular intervals all year long to keep everyone’s “encouragement tanks” topped off.</span></span><span class="eop"> </span></p>
  822. <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b><span lang="EN-US">“Acts” of Encouragement<br />
  823. </span></b></span><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Beforehand, brainstorm situations where kids and adults might need encouragement (for example, taking a test, feeling sick, being new to a class or job). Write each one on a slip<b> </b>of paper. Then play Encouragement Charades. The person who picks a slip acts out that situation. The first person to guess it then acts out a way to offer encouragement. (Speaking is allowed for that part!)</span></span><span class="eop"> </span></p>
  824. <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b><span lang="EN-US">Be a Barnabas<br />
  825. </span></b></span><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Form pairs. Give each pair a book. Have one partner walk across a room and back with a book balanced on their head. Have the other partner walk along and offer encouragement. Then change roles. Afterward, ask: “How did it feel to have someone there all the time encouraging you?” Read aloud Acts 11:22-24. Ask: “What types of encouragement did Barnabas offer? What made him such a good encourager? What types of encouragement do you need most? In what ways can you encourage other people?”</span></span><span class="eop"> </span></p>
  826. <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b><span lang="EN-US">God Uses You!<br />
  827. </span></b></span><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Encourage family members by reminding them that God chooses and works through them. Say: “In the Bible, God chooses ordinary people for special tasks. David, a shepherd boy, defeated the giant Goliath and later became king. Mary, a teenage girl, became baby Jesus’ mother. Let’s see how God makes these choices.” Read aloud 1 Samuel 16:7. Ask: “What do you think God cares about? Why do you think God works through average, ordinary people? How does that encourage you to listen to and serve God?”</span></span><span class="eop"> </span></p>
  828. <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b><span lang="EN-US">That’s Encouraging!<br />
  829. </span></b></span><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Say: “Family members are special encouragers to one another, as we see in the Bible. When Mary hears she’s going to have baby Jesus, she visits her cousin Elizabeth.” Read aloud Luke 1:39-45. Ask: “How might Elizabeth have made Mary feel?<b><i> </i></b>What is it like when someone encourages you? What kinds of encouragement can we give each other?” Pray, asking God for help to encourage one another—especially family members.</span></span><span class="eop"><b><i> </i></b></span></p>
  830. </div>
  831. </div>
  832. </div>
  833. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  834. <p><strong><span style="color: #58585a;">About the Author:</span> <span style="color: #00b4ad;"><a style="color: #00b4ad;" href="http://farodeluz.ca/category/bya-blog/stephanie-holmberg/">stephanie holmberg</a></span></strong></p>
  835. <p>Stephanie is a wife, mother, pastor, and friend who is passionate about seeing people live authentic, purpose-filled lives. When not working alongside her amazing kidmin team, you will find her at home spending time with her family, snuggling her furry friend Milo, or out exploring all the amazing places Edmonton has to offer.</p>
  836. ]]></content:encoded>
  840. </item>
  841. <item>
  842. <title>Little Did I Know</title>
  843. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  845. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  846. <pubDate>Sat, 01 Jan 2022 19:00:48 +0000</pubDate>
  847. <category><![CDATA[Sermon Series]]></category>
  848. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/2022/01/01/little-did-i-know/</guid>
  849.  
  850. <description><![CDATA[There are many misunderstandings about the Christian Faith. Popular understanding is often not truth, but is skewed and misleading. How can we live in light of God&#8217;s truth? This series [&#8230;]]]></description>
  851. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h4>There are many misunderstandings about the Christian Faith.</h4>
  852. <p>Popular understanding is often not truth, but is skewed and misleading. How can we live in light of God&#8217;s truth? This series will dive into what the Bible says about the Gospel, heaven, who God is, the Holy Spirit, and giving.</p>
  853. <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ffffff;">MESSAGES FROM THE SERIES</span></p>
  854. <p>W3Nlcm1vbnMgZmlsdGVyX2J5PSJzZXJpZXMiIGZpbHRlcl92YWx1ZT0ibGl0dGxlLWRpZC1pLWtub3ciXQ==</p>
  855. <p>PAST SERMON SERIES</p>
  856. <h3 style="text-align: center;">QUESTIONS? | <a href="mailto:&#105;&#110;&#102;o&#64;b&#101;u&#108;a&#104;.&#99;&#97;" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span style="color: #000000;">&#73;N&#70;O&#64;&#66;E&#85;&#76;AH&#46;&#67;A</span> </a></h3>
  857. ]]></content:encoded>
  861. </item>
  862. <item>
  863. <title>A Thrill Of Hope</title>
  864. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  866. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  867. <pubDate>Sat, 25 Dec 2021 19:00:45 +0000</pubDate>
  868. <category><![CDATA[Sermon Series]]></category>
  869. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/2021/12/25/a-thrill-of-hope/</guid>
  870.  
  871. <description><![CDATA[Hope has been fully fulfilled in Jesus. He is Immanuel. God with us. God here today. God present in every single moment. Always with us. His peace is available to [&#8230;]]]></description>
  872. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Hope has been fully fulfilled in Jesus. He is Immanuel. God with us. God here today. God present in every single moment. Always with us. His peace is available to us, for his favour rests on us.</p>
  873. <h4>Hope is available for you today. New life is available for you today. And his name is Jesus.</h4>
  874. <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ffffff;">MESSAGES FROM THE SERIES</span></p>
  875. <p>W3Nlcm1vbnMgZmlsdGVyX2J5PSJzZXJpZXMiIGZpbHRlcl92YWx1ZT0iYS10aHJpbGwtb2YtaG9wZSJd</p>
  876. <p>PAST SERMON SERIES</p>
  877. <h3 style="text-align: center;">QUESTIONS? | <a href="mailto:in&#102;&#111;&#64;&#98;e&#117;l&#97;h.&#99;&#97;" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span style="color: #000000;">I&#78;FO&#64;&#66;&#69;U&#76;&#65;&#72;.CA</span> </a></h3>
  878. ]]></content:encoded>
  882. </item>
  883. <item>
  884. <title>Christmas Eve 2021</title>
  885. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  887. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  888. <pubDate>Thu, 23 Dec 2021 19:00:50 +0000</pubDate>
  889. <category><![CDATA[Sermon Series]]></category>
  890. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/2021/12/23/christmas-eve-2021/</guid>
  891.  
  892. <description><![CDATA[http://farodeluz.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Christmas-2021-BACKGROUND-1024&#215;576.jpg http://farodeluz.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Christmas-2021-WORDMARK-1024&#215;357.png Every year we anticipate a celebration. One that reminds us that there is a Prince of Peace, that there is a Wonderful Counsellor. This season we invite you [&#8230;]]]></description>
  893. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>http://farodeluz.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Christmas-2021-BACKGROUND-1024&#215;576.jpg</p>
  894. <p>http://farodeluz.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Christmas-2021-WORDMARK-1024&#215;357.png</p>
  895. <p class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="16" data-lineheight="28px">Every year we anticipate a celebration. One that reminds us that there is a Prince of Peace, that there is a Wonderful Counsellor. This season we invite you to come and join your voice with ours. Together we will rise above our circumstances to rejoice, proclaim, and share this great story. For unto us a Saviour has come.</p>
  896. <h4 class="fusion-responsive-typography-calculated" data-fontsize="16" data-lineheight="28px">Weary World Rejoice!</h4>
  897. <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ffffff;">CHRISTMAS EVE MESSAGES<br />
  898. </span></p>
  899. <h3 style="text-align: center;">QUESTIONS? | <a href="mailto:&#105;nfo&#64;b&#101;ulah.&#99;a" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span style="color: #000000;">&#73;&#78;&#70;O&#64;BE&#85;&#76;AH&#46;&#67;A</span> </a></h3>
  900. ]]></content:encoded>
  904. </item>
  905. <item>
  906. <title>Be Prepared</title>
  907. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  909. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  910. <pubDate>Wed, 15 Dec 2021 20:42:57 +0000</pubDate>
  911. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  912. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  913. <category><![CDATA[Discipling Kids]]></category>
  914. <category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
  915. <category><![CDATA[Raising Kids]]></category>
  916. <category><![CDATA[Spiritual Practices]]></category>
  917. <category><![CDATA[Truth]]></category>
  918. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/2021/12/15/be-prepared/</guid>
  919.  
  920. <description><![CDATA[As Christmas approaches, we can get so busy getting things ready for the big day. Christmas shopping, baking, parties, and concerts fill our schedules. Our calendars are so full making [&#8230;]]]></description>
  921. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun">As Christmas approaches, we can get so busy getting things ready for the big day. Christmas shopping, baking, parties, and concerts fill our schedules. Our calendars are so full making sure our gift lists are checked off and our family Christmas photos are done that sometimes we forget to revel in the joy that this time of year brings. We spend so much time in preparation for Christmas day, I wonder how much of that time is spent preparing our hearts for the true Wonder of Christmas? This holiday season, I encourage you to take moments of personal and family reflection on the true meaning of Christmas. Try some of these activities with your family to deepen the quality of time spent together.</span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  922. <div class="_3QCsM9-LPIxe1EDTYYKDn0 QMubUjbS-BOly_BTHEZj7 allowTextSelection">
  923. <div lang="en-CA">
  924. <div>
  925. <ul>
  926. <li class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b>Guest Prep | </b></span><span class="normaltextrun">Brainstorm things your family does to get ready for guests. Discuss what you’d do differently if Jesus came to stay at your house. Read aloud Mark 1:3-4. Say: “John the Baptist told many people that Jesus was coming. We, too, can let others know what Christmas is about—our Saviour’s birth.” Pray, asking God to bless your family’s plans for his Son’s arrival.</span></li>
  927. </ul>
  928. <ul>
  929. <li class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b>Holding onto Hope | </b></span><span class="normaltextrun">At breakfast, discuss each day’s Christmas-related plans. Talk about how anticipating this special time is like or unlike what Mary and Joseph hoped for as they waited for Jesus.</span></li>
  930. </ul>
  931. <ul>
  932. <li class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b>Preparing a Place | </b></span><span class="normaltextrun">Have children design place cards and decorate paper plates for a meal. Afterward, read Luke 14:12-24 and talk about how God loves each of us and invites us to a heavenly feast. Say: “While we’re preparing our hearts for Jesus, God is preparing a place for us in heaven.”<b> </b>Close in prayer, thanking God for each family member by name.</span></li>
  933. </ul>
  934. <ul>
  935. <li class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b><span lang="EN-US">Waiting for the Promise | </span></b></span><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Discuss why waiting is tough—and how it feels when a long wait is finally over. Read aloud Jeremiah 33:14-16. Say: “This prophet told people that the Messiah, Jesus, was coming. More than 500 years<b> </b>later, God’s<b> </b>promise was fulfilled.”<b> </b>Brainstorm promises you could make that might be worthwhile in 500 years. Say: “Knowing that God always keeps his promises helps us trust him while we’re waiting.”</span></span></li>
  936. </ul>
  937. <ul>
  938. <li class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b>“Spread” the News | </b></span><span class="normaltextrun">Set out<b> </b>sugar cookies, frosting, blunt knives, and sprinkles. While kids decorate cookies, discuss ways we can “spread” the good news about Jesus’ birth and add “sprinkles” of joy to people’s lives.</span></li>
  939. </ul>
  940. <ul>
  941. <li class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b>Nativity Copycats | </b></span><span class="normaltextrun">Encourage kids to follow the examples of people in the Bible: loving Jesus as Mary and Joseph did, praising Jesus as the angels did, telling others about Jesus as the shepherds did, and giving Jesus gifts as the wise men did.</span></li>
  942. </ul>
  943. <ul>
  944. <li class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b>Christmas Concert</b></span><span class="normaltextrun"> | Let younger children ring bells, play music boxes, and dance to Christmas carols. Say: “Knowing that Jesus is coming makes us happy!”</span></li>
  945. </ul>
  946. <ul>
  947. <li class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b>The Big Picture | </b></span><span class="normaltextrun">On a long piece of paper, outline a Christmas design. Each day in December, spend a few minutes colouring in the details together. As the mural comes into focus, discuss how to stay focused on Jesus. Display the completed mural in a window.</span><span class="eop"> </span></li>
  948. </ul>
  949. </div>
  950. </div>
  951. </div>
  952. <p>Get Social</p>
  953. <p>Recent Posts</p>
  954. <p>Categories</p>
  955. <p>Authors</p>
  956. <p><strong><span style="color: #58585a;">About the Author:</span> <span style="color: #00b4ad;"><a style="color: #00b4ad;" href="http://farodeluz.ca/category/bya-blog/stephanie-holmberg/">stephanie holmberg</a></span></strong></p>
  957. <p>http://farodeluz.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Stephanie-1.png</p>
  958. <p>Stephanie is a wife, mother, pastor, and friend who is passionate about seeing people live authentic, purpose-filled lives. When not working alongside her amazing kidmin team, you will find her at home spending time with her family, snuggling her furry friend Milo, or out exploring all the amazing places Edmonton has to offer.</p>
  959. ]]></content:encoded>
  963. </item>
  964. <item>
  965. <title>God With Us</title>
  966. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  968. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  969. <pubDate>Fri, 26 Nov 2021 03:33:16 +0000</pubDate>
  970. <category><![CDATA[Sermon Series]]></category>
  971. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/2021/11/26/god-with-us/</guid>
  972.  
  973. <description><![CDATA[Jesus is Immanuel. &#8230; even when you ask if your life matters … even when you feel unseen and not important … even in the midst of evil … even [&#8230;]]]></description>
  974. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h4>Jesus is Immanuel.</h4>
  975. <p>&#8230; even when you ask if your life matters<br />
  976. … even when you feel unseen and not important<br />
  977. … even in the midst of evil<br />
  978. … even in the midst of silence</p>
  979. <h4>Live with confidence because God is with you. Jesus Christ our Immanuel!</h4>
  980. <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ffffff;">MESSAGES FROM THE SERIES</span></p>
  981. <p>W3Nlcm1vbnMgZmlsdGVyX2J5PSJzZXJpZXMiIGZpbHRlcl92YWx1ZT0iZ29kLXdpdGgtdXMiXQ==</p>
  982. <p>PAST SERMON SERIES</p>
  983. <h3 style="text-align: center;">QUESTIONS? | <a href="mailto:i&#110;&#102;o&#64;beula&#104;&#46;c&#97;" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span style="color: #000000;">IN&#70;&#79;&#64;B&#69;UL&#65;&#72;.&#67;&#65;</span> </a></h3>
  984. ]]></content:encoded>
  988. </item>
  989. <item>
  990. <title>Biblical Food For Thought</title>
  991. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  993. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  994. <pubDate>Wed, 24 Nov 2021 23:40:42 +0000</pubDate>
  995. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  996. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  997. <category><![CDATA[Discipling Kids]]></category>
  998. <category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
  999. <category><![CDATA[Raising Kids]]></category>
  1000. <category><![CDATA[Spiritual Practices]]></category>
  1001. <category><![CDATA[Truth]]></category>
  1002. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/2021/11/24/biblical-food-for-thought/</guid>
  1003.  
  1004. <description><![CDATA[Children, no matter their social class, often define themselves by their possessions and wants. Meanwhile, our materialistic culture insidiously distracts from what kids really need: to connect, to be satisfied, and to [&#8230;]]]></description>
  1005. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Children, no matter their social class, often define themselves by their possessions and wants. Meanwhile, our materialistic culture insidiously distracts from what kids <i>really</i> need: to connect, to be satisfied, and to matter.</span></span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  1006. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Ultimately, children want attention and relationships more than things. Through connections with Jesus and his followers, kids learn that they’re special because of their identity in Jesus—and that only he offers eternal, priceless treasure.</span></span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  1007. <h4>Jesus says, “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and I will give you everything you need.&#8221;</h4>
  1008. <h4 style="text-align: right;">Matthew 6:33</h4>
  1009. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">To give kids the wealth of God’s kingdom in their hearts, we must let them experience spiritual hunger. “I lose touch with my own body when I never allow myself to feel physical hunger,” Phil Vischer writes in <i>Children’s Ministry</i> magazine. The “VeggieTales” creator adds: “Likewise, our kids lose touch with their spiritual selves—their true selves—when they’re never given the space to feel spiritual hunger. Space to ask big questions. Space to wonder. And space to feel (gasp!) <i>small.”</i></span></span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  1010. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">How do we help kids who are full of (or desirous of) earthly things hunger for the things of God? Parents can set a good example, have family devotions, pray with children, and engage in conversations that whet an appetite for Jesus.  </span></span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  1011. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">In 1930, missionary Frank Laubach sat on a hill overlooking a town in the Philippines where he felt called to share the Gospel. While reflecting on the task, he heard God say, “You must awaken hunger there, for until they hunger they cannot be fed.” That hunger, sometimes called a “God-shaped hole,” is a yearning for eternity and for answers to life’s biggest questions: What is my purpose? Is this world all there is? Our world and its stream of distractions is intent on reducing children’s hunger pangs for the divine, but you can remind them that Jesus wants our life to be otherworldly.</span></span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  1012. <h4><span lang="EN-US">Help awaken your child’s biblical hunger with these activities:</span><span class="eop" style="font-size: 16px;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></h4>
  1013. <div class="_3QCsM9-LPIxe1EDTYYKDn0 QMubUjbS-BOly_BTHEZj7 allowTextSelection">
  1014. <div lang="en-CA">
  1015. <div>
  1016. <ul>
  1017. <li class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b><span lang="EN-US">Edible Garden | </span></b></span><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">For discussions about God’s creation or being thankful for food, create a colourful display of vegetable flowers and plants. With some imagination, cucumbers become flower petals, a celery stalk is a stem, and spinach becomes the leaves. Set out ranch dip and consume the art. </span></span></li>
  1018. <li class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b><span lang="EN-US">Tablet Treats | </span></b></span><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">While learning about the Ten Commandments, make tablets out of graham crackers, vanilla frosting, and raisins. As kids add each raisin, see if they can remember each commandment. This snack also works with lessons about Jesus teaching in the temple and Paul’s letters to the church. </span></span></li>
  1019. <li class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b><span lang="EN-US">Cross Talk | </span></b></span><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">When discussing how Jesus died on the cross for us, make an edible object lesson with pretzel sticks and candy coating. Melt according to instructions and then dip pretzels. On paper plates or wax paper, connect sticks into cross shapes. When cool, enjoy.</span></span><span class="eop"> </span></li>
  1020. <li class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b><span lang="EN-US">Gone Fishin’ | </span></b></span><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Spread peanut butter or cream cheese on a paper plate. Fill another paper plate with Goldfish crackers and set it nearby. Have family members dip one end of a pretzel stick into the peanut butter or cream cheese. Then, using their pretzel “fishing rods,” have them “catch” fish by touching the dipped pretzel ends to crackers and picking them up to eat. (Avoid double dipping.) Use this to talk about following Jesus and fishing for people.</span></span><span class="eop"> </span></li>
  1021. <li class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b><span lang="EN-US">Prayer Necklace | </span></b></span><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">For a fun reminder to pray, string circle-shaped cereal onto thin licorice whips. Tie the ends together to make necklaces. During devotions, encourage family members to eat a piece of cereal as each prayer request or praise is shared.</span></span><span class="eop"> </span></li>
  1022. <li class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b><span lang="EN-US">Cheesy Blocks | </span></b></span><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Use cheese cubes to build structures from events in the Bible (tower of Babel, wall of Jericho, house built on the rock, and so on). Insert toothpicks to stabilize the structures, and let kids gobble up their creations later.</span></span><span class="eop"> </span></li>
  1023. <li class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b><span lang="EN-US">Ultimate Nourishment | </span></b></span><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Prepare and eat slices of bread with honey. <a href="webextlink://Read aloud Luke 10:38-42 and talk about Mary and Martha.">Read aloud Luke 10:38-42 and talk about Mary and Martha.</a> Ask: “Which is more nourishing: bread or honey?” Say: “The Bible says Jesus is the bread of life. Jesus feeds our souls when we spend time with him. Busy bees make honey, which is sweet but not very nourishing. Being busy doesn’t feed our souls.” Ask: “How can you spend more time with Jesus, the bread of life, this week? How can we share his ‘food’ with others?”</span></span><span class="eop"><br />
  1024. </span></li>
  1025. </ul>
  1026. </div>
  1027. </div>
  1028. </div>
  1029. <p>Get Social</p>
  1030. <p>Recent Posts</p>
  1031. <p>Categories</p>
  1032. <p>Authors</p>
  1033. <p><strong><span style="color: #58585a;">About the Author:</span> <span style="color: #00b4ad;"><a style="color: #00b4ad;" href="http://farodeluz.ca/category/bya-blog/stephanie-holmberg/">stephanie holmberg</a></span></strong></p>
  1034. <p>http://farodeluz.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Stephanie-1.png</p>
  1035. <p>Stephanie is a wife, mother, pastor, and friend who is passionate about seeing people live authentic, purpose-filled lives. When not working alongside her amazing kidmin team, you will find her at home spending time with her family, snuggling her furry friend Milo, or out exploring all the amazing places Edmonton has to offer.</p>
  1036. ]]></content:encoded>
  1040. </item>
  1041. <item>
  1042. <title>Listen Up</title>
  1043. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  1045. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  1046. <pubDate>Fri, 22 Oct 2021 18:26:07 +0000</pubDate>
  1047. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  1048. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  1049. <category><![CDATA[Discipling Kids]]></category>
  1050. <category><![CDATA[Faith]]></category>
  1051. <category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
  1052. <category><![CDATA[Raising Kids]]></category>
  1053. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/2021/10/22/listen-up/</guid>
  1054.  
  1055. <description><![CDATA[“God gave you two ears and one mouth for a reason.” Like most parents, you’ve likely heard—or at least thought—this before. The symbolism rings true: Listening more than we speak shows [&#8230;]]]></description>
  1056. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h6>“God gave you two ears and one mouth for a reason.” Like most parents, you’ve likely heard—or at least thought—this before. The symbolism rings true: Listening more than we speak shows that we care about people’s needs and feelings. Listening also helps us understand others better and grow closer to them.<span lang="en-US"><br />
  1057. </span></h6>
  1058. <h6>That applies to our faith lives, too. Because listening is an integral component of worship and prayer, it’s vital for maintaining a strong relationship with our Creator and Saviour. God speaks to us through his Word, through his answers to prayer, and through our fellow Christians traveling on this journey with us.<span lang="en-US"> </span></h6>
  1059. <h6>Being a good listener—to people as well as to God—is an acquired skill. Even adults need reminders and practice to remain alert, open, and attentive to one another and to God. That’s especially true these days, when many distractions and other “voices” threaten to pull us away from faithfully following our true Leader.<span lang="en-US"><br />
  1060. </span></h6>
  1061. <h6>Faith becomes “sticky,” according to researcher Kara Powell, through give-and-take conversations among parents and children. That means it’s important to listen as much—or more than!—you talk. Kids’ questions and observations provide a window into their faith development and into how we can encourage continued growth.<span lang="en-US"><br />
  1062. </span></h6>
  1063. <h5><strong>So, put on your “listening ears” to discover even more auditory insights through some of these family activities.<span lang="en-US"> </span></strong></h5>
  1064. <div class="_3QCsM9-LPIxe1EDTYYKDn0 QMubUjbS-BOly_BTHEZj7 allowTextSelection">
  1065. <div>
  1066. <div>
  1067. <div lang="en-CA">
  1068. <div>
  1069. <div>
  1070. <div>
  1071. <ul>
  1072. <li><b>Look &amp; Listen </b>Hide a small object and tell family members you’ll give them clues to find it. Play loud music and start saying clues without shouting. Afterward, discuss how the noise affected the ability to hear and how people overcame that. Read aloud (or summarize) 1 Samuel 3:1-21 and ask: “How did Samuel know when God was speaking to him? How can we learn to hear God’s voice?” Say: “Let’s remind each other to tune out earthly noises so we can hear God!”<span lang="en-US"> </span></li>
  1073. </ul>
  1074. </div>
  1075. <div>
  1076. <ul>
  1077. <li><span lang="en-US"> </span><b>Be Still </b>For this exercise, allow adequate time between steps. Hand out paper and pencils. Read aloud Psalm 46:10 and say: “Think about what this verse means.” (Pause.) Say: “Close your eyes and listen for sounds nearby.” (Pause.) Say: “Now listen for God’s voice.” (Pause.) Say: “Write or draw what you feel and hear.” When everyone’s finished, discuss your experiences and how being still helps us hear God better.<span lang="en-US"><br />
  1078. </span></li>
  1079. </ul>
  1080. </div>
  1081. <div>
  1082. <ul>
  1083. <li><b>Stop, Drop &amp; Follow </b>Read aloud (or summarize) Acts 9:1-20. Have family members act out being Saul. Shine a flashlight and say: “Drop to the ground! Saul couldn’t see, so close your eyes.” (Pause.) Say: “Now stand up and listen up!” Give a simple instruction, such as clapping hands, stomping feet, or repeating a phrase. Then have everyone open their eyes and stand up. Repeat, issuing a new command each time. Afterward, ask: “What was it like to listen to and follow directions when you couldn’t see? What did Jesus want Saul to do?” Say: “Jesus wants us to listen to him and follow him. Then we can tell others about Jesus so they can follow him, too!”<span lang="en-US"><br />
  1084. </span></li>
  1085. </ul>
  1086. </div>
  1087. <div>
  1088. <ul>
  1089. <li><b>“I” Am Listening </b>Give each person 10 marbles. Say: “Mingle and talk about your day—but without saying the word <i>I. </i>If you do, anyone who hears it gets a marble from you.” After five minutes, count marbles. Ask: “What was it like to avoid saying <i>I?” </i>Read aloud Philippians 2:3-4. Ask: “Why does God tell us to focus on others, not on ourselves? How does listening closely show that we care about other people?”<span lang="en-US"> </span></li>
  1090. </ul>
  1091. </div>
  1092. <div>
  1093. <ul>
  1094. <li><b>Actions Speak Volumes </b>On index cards, write the names of famous Bible people (one per card). Take turns silently acting out what each is known for. Read aloud Ecclesiastes 3:7. Ask: “How did you know who those people were? Why do we often remember actions more than words? How can we combine our actions and words to tell about Jesus?”<span lang="en-US"> </span></li>
  1095. </ul>
  1096. </div>
  1097. </div>
  1098. </div>
  1099. </div>
  1100. </div>
  1101. </div>
  1102. </div>
  1103. <p>Get Social</p>
  1104. <p>Recent Posts</p>
  1105. <p>Categories</p>
  1106. <p>Authors</p>
  1107. <p><strong><span style="color: #58585a;">About the Author:</span> <span style="color: #00b4ad;"><a style="color: #00b4ad;" href="http://farodeluz.ca/category/bya-blog/stephanie-holmberg/">stephanie holmberg</a></span></strong></p>
  1108. <p>http://farodeluz.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Stephanie-1.png</p>
  1109. <p>Stephanie is a wife, mother, pastor, and friend who is passionate about seeing people live authentic, purpose-filled lives. When not working alongside her amazing kidmin team, you will find her at home spending time with her family, snuggling her furry friend Milo, or out exploring all the amazing places Edmonton has to offer.</p>
  1110. ]]></content:encoded>
  1114. </item>
  1115. <item>
  1116. <title>Emotionally Healthy Spirituality</title>
  1117. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  1119. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  1120. <pubDate>Sat, 09 Oct 2021 16:43:31 +0000</pubDate>
  1121. <category><![CDATA[Sermon Series]]></category>
  1122. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/2021/10/09/emotionally-healthy-spirituality/</guid>
  1123.  
  1124. <description><![CDATA[Emotional health and spiritual maturity cannot be separated. It is impossible to be spiritually mature while remaining emotionally immature. We can find ourselves moving through the motions of Christian disciplines, [&#8230;]]]></description>
  1125. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h4>Emotional health and spiritual maturity cannot be separated. It is impossible to be spiritually mature while remaining emotionally immature.</h4>
  1126. <p>We can find ourselves moving through the motions of Christian disciplines, activities, and behaviours, but deeply rooted behavioural patterns from our pasts can continue to hinder us from an authentic life of maturity in Christ. We can neglect to reflect on what is going on inside of us and around us and become too busy to slow down to be with God. If not addressed, we run the risk of remaining stuck as spiritual infants, failing to develop into spiritually and emotionally mature adults in Christ.</p>
  1127. <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ffffff;">MESSAGES FROM THE SERIES</span></p>
  1128. <p>W3Nlcm1vbnMgZmlsdGVyX2J5PSJzZXJpZXMiIGZpbHRlcl92YWx1ZT0iZW1vdGlvbmFsbHktaGVhbHRoeS1zcGlyaXR1YWxpdHkiXQ==</p>
  1129. <p>PAST SERMON SERIES</p>
  1130. <h3 style="text-align: center;">QUESTIONS? | <a href="mailto:i&#110;&#102;&#111;&#64;&#98;&#101;&#117;la&#104;.ca" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span style="color: #000000;">&#73;N&#70;&#79;&#64;BE&#85;L&#65;H.&#67;&#65;</span> </a></h3>
  1131. ]]></content:encoded>
  1135. </item>
  1136. <item>
  1137. <title>Address Rebellion with Love</title>
  1138. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  1140. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  1141. <pubDate>Thu, 23 Sep 2021 21:21:34 +0000</pubDate>
  1142. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  1143. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  1144. <category><![CDATA[Discipling Kids]]></category>
  1145. <category><![CDATA[Faith]]></category>
  1146. <category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
  1147. <category><![CDATA[Raising Kids]]></category>
  1148. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/2021/09/23/address-rebellion-with-love/</guid>
  1149.  
  1150. <description><![CDATA[After a summer of “freedom” and relaxed rules, September’s return to school and schedules often poses a challenge for children. On top of that, 2021 has been filled with new [&#8230;]]]></description>
  1151. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h6><span lang="en-US">After a summer of “freedom” and relaxed rules, September’s return to school and schedules often poses a challenge for children. On top of that, 2021 has been filled with new restrictions and limits that are tough for everyone to comply with and comprehend. </span></h6>
  1152. <h6><span lang="en-US">As the pandemic drags on, kids are likely to have more questions about why they need to wear masks and why they can’t enjoy certain activities or venues that are temporarily shut down.</span></h6>
  1153. <h6><span lang="en-US">Although rules are set for our own good, following them isn’t always fun or easy. Because of sin, all humans rebel against authorities and against God. Children are no exception, as new parents quickly discover. From a surprisingly young age, little ones begin asserting their independence by pushing back against limits and saying “no!” Just as God deals with our rebellion out of love, he instructs parents to raise and discipline children lovingly. That approach molds them into followers of Jesus who strive to obey God and respect other people.</span></h6>
  1154. <h6><span lang="en-US">Rebellion takes different forms as children grow (see the next page), so you’ll need to adapt your approach to rule-setting and discipline. No matter your children’s age, however, one of the most important things you can do is pray for them—and for yourself in the vital role of parent. Thank Jesus for each of your children by name, and ask Jesus to work in their hearts and lives, giving them a strong desire to always follow God faithfully. </span></h6>
  1155. <h4><span lang="en-US">Use these strategies for dealing with rebellion as children grow:</span></h4>
  1156. <ul>
  1157. <li>
  1158. <h4><b><span lang="en-US">Birth to 2 years:</span></b><span lang="en-US"> Accept that God gives even infants and toddlers unique temperaments. Provide lots of comfort, physical touch, and warmth.</span></h4>
  1159. </li>
  1160. <li>
  1161. <h4><b><span lang="en-US">3 to 4 years: </span></b><span lang="en-US">Listen carefully, and respond to physical and emotional needs. Explore what upsets children. Model Jesus’ love through affection.</span></h4>
  1162. </li>
  1163. <li>
  1164. <h4><b><span lang="en-US">5 to 7 years: </span></b><span lang="en-US">Offer choices and clear consequences for disobedience. Balance your growing demands with warmth and reason.</span></h4>
  1165. </li>
  1166. <li>
  1167. <h4><b><span lang="en-US">8 to 12 years: </span></b><span lang="en-US">Be consistent. Express trust, and praise kids for jobs well done. When kids fall short, ask what they can do differently next time.</span></h4>
  1168. </li>
  1169. </ul>
  1170. <h6><span lang="en-US">Here’s some great ideas to try at home:</span></h6>
  1171. <h6><b><span lang="en-US">Commandments 2.0 </span></b><span lang="en-US">As a family, work to reword each of God’s Ten Commandments as a loving rule with positive purposes; for example, “Because I want you to be protected from religions that would mislead you, don’t worship any other god besides me.”</span></h6>
  1172. <h6><b><span lang="en-US">Walking with God </span></b><span lang="en-US">Either trace one another’s feet on paper or make footprint impressions with plaster of Paris. As prints dry, read Joshua 22:5 (NIV) and discuss what it means to “walk in obedience” with God. Also talk about what it’s like to veer from God’s path—and how he brings us back to his ways.</span></h6>
  1173. <h6><b><span lang="en-US">Grace Abounds </span></b><span lang="en-US">During family devotions about people in the Bible who rebelled, address not only the consequences each person faced but also God’s abundant grace. For example, King David paid a hefty price for sinning, but he asked for—and received—forgiveness.</span></h6>
  1174. <h6><b><span lang="en-US">Going God’s Way </span></b><span lang="en-US">Beforehand, use tape to mark start and finish lines at opposite ends of a room.<b> </b>Share times you’ve done the opposite of what you should have done. Gather on the starting line and say: “See how fast you can get to the finish line—but you must crawl or crabwalk backward. Go!” Read John 1:35-40. Ask: “How was this game like or unlike following Jesus? When it’s tempting to do the opposite, how can we live God’s way?”</span></h6>
  1175. <h6><b><span lang="en-US">Rules Roulette </span></b><span lang="en-US">Search online for outdated rules that were in communities and schools years ago—or that might still remain today. Share some funny rules with family. Then read Luke 16:17. Ask: “Why do rules exist? Why do they sometimes need to change? How does it feel to know that God’s rules will never change?”</span></h6>
  1176. <h6><b><span lang="en-US">Starting Over </span></b><span lang="en-US">As a family, choose an item to draw on an Etch-A-Sketch. Every 60 seconds, pass the toy to someone else. When it returns to you, start drawing and say, “Oops, I messed up!” Shake the toy. Say: “Sometimes we mess up by not following God’s rules, but he lets us start over.” Read Luke 15:11-32. Discuss how the prodigal son rebelled against his father but got a second chance.</span></h6>
  1177. <p>Get Social</p>
  1178. <p>Recent Posts</p>
  1179. <p>Categories</p>
  1180. <p>Authors</p>
  1181. <p><strong><span style="color: #58585a;">About the Author:</span> <span style="color: #00b4ad;"><a style="color: #00b4ad;" href="http://farodeluz.ca/category/bya-blog/stephanie-holmberg/">stephanie holmberg</a></span></strong></p>
  1182. <p>http://farodeluz.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Stephanie-1.png</p>
  1183. <p>Stephanie is a wife, mother, pastor, and friend who is passionate about seeing people live authentic, purpose-filled lives. When not working alongside her amazing kidmin team, you will find her at home spending time with her family, snuggling her furry friend Milo, or out exploring all the amazing places Edmonton has to offer.</p>
  1184. ]]></content:encoded>
  1188. </item>
  1189. <item>
  1190. <title>Not A Game Of Thrones</title>
  1191. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  1193. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  1194. <pubDate>Fri, 10 Sep 2021 21:08:02 +0000</pubDate>
  1195. <category><![CDATA[Sermon Series]]></category>
  1196. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/2021/09/10/not-a-game-of-thrones/</guid>
  1197.  
  1198. <description><![CDATA[Beulah is a church of disciple-makers who equip and empower one another to follow Jesus, be continually changed by Him, and join Him in what He is doing in the [&#8230;]]]></description>
  1199. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>
  1200. <div>Beulah is a church of disciple-makers who equip and empower one another to follow Jesus, be continually changed by Him, and join Him in what He is doing in the world. Our vision is to awaken Greater Edmonton to King Jesus by creating radically ordinary and awe-inspiring moments to help people explore, encounter, and know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour.  There can only be one King.</div>
  1201. </div>
  1202. <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ffffff;">MESSAGES FROM THE SERIES</span></p>
  1203. <p>W3Nlcm1vbnMgZmlsdGVyX2J5PSJzZXJpZXMiIGZpbHRlcl92YWx1ZT0ibm90LWEtZ2FtZS1vZi10aHJvbmVzIl0=</p>
  1204. <p>PAST SERMON SERIES</p>
  1205. <h3 style="text-align: center;">QUESTIONS? | <a href="mailto:&#105;nf&#111;&#64;b&#101;u&#108;&#97;h.&#99;a" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span style="color: #000000;">I&#78;&#70;&#79;&#64;B&#69;U&#76;AH&#46;&#67;A</span> </a></h3>
  1206. ]]></content:encoded>
  1210. </item>
  1211. <item>
  1212. <title>The Faith-Growth Mindset</title>
  1213. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  1215. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  1216. <pubDate>Tue, 24 Aug 2021 17:59:02 +0000</pubDate>
  1217. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  1218. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  1219. <category><![CDATA[Discipling Kids]]></category>
  1220. <category><![CDATA[Faith]]></category>
  1221. <category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
  1222. <category><![CDATA[Raising Kids]]></category>
  1223. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/2021/08/24/the-faith-growth-mindset/</guid>
  1224.  
  1225. <description><![CDATA[With a new school year on the horizon, attention turns to goals for learning and growing. To encourage academic improvement, many schools now emphasize what psychologist Carol Dweck calls the [&#8230;]]]></description>
  1226. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">With a new school year on the horizon, attention turns to goals for learning and growing. To encourage academic improvement, many schools now emphasize what psychologist Carol Dweck calls the “growth mindset”—a belief that anyone can learn and grow with effort. Potential is unlocked when children believe they can learn from challenges and by working hard.</span></span><span class="eop"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></h6>
  1227. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">By contrast, a “fixed mindset” is a belief that one’s basic abilities and talents are predetermined. These kids (and adults) aren’t interested in learning how to improve because they don’t believe they can. </span></span><span class="eop"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span><span class="eop"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></h6>
  1228. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Dweck’s approach is relevant beyond the classroom; in fact, it applies to faith growth, to some degree. People with a fixed mindset believe they’re bad and can’t change, that imperfections are shameful, and that if they face challenges, something must be wrong with their faith. </span></span><span class="eop"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></h6>
  1229. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Those with a growth mindset, however, realize it’s okay to share their sins and struggles with others. They know that Jesus loves and forgives them no matter what, and they believe they can grow closer to Jesus by trusting him during life’s inevitable challenges.</span></span><span class="eop"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></h6>
  1230. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">One thing we <i>do</i> want to be fixed in kids’ minds is their innate, God-given value. God made us in his image and wants to be in relationship with us despite our shortcomings. Because we don’t have to prove our worth to God, we can focus instead on growing closer to him. </span></span><span class="eop"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></h6>
  1231. <h4 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Instilling a faith-growth mindset can be as simple as altering the praise and feedback you give your children. Follow these guidelines:</span></span><span class="eop"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></h4>
  1232. <ul>
  1233. <li class="paragraph">
  1234. <h4><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Let kids know God already loves them—no matter what.</span></span><span class="eop"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></h4>
  1235. </li>
  1236. <li class="paragraph">
  1237. <h4><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Say the goal is to be best friends with God, not to appear good.</span></span><span class="eop"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></h4>
  1238. </li>
  1239. <li class="paragraph">
  1240. <h4><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Praise kids for the effort they put into resisting a temptation.</span></span><span class="eop"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></h4>
  1241. </li>
  1242. <li class="paragraph">
  1243. <h4><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Praise kids for getting to know God, not just knowing <i>about</i> him.</span></span><span class="eop"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></h4>
  1244. </li>
  1245. <li class="paragraph">
  1246. <h4><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Encourage kids to ask Jesus for help when they’re struggling.</span></span><span class="eop"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></h4>
  1247. </li>
  1248. <li class="paragraph">
  1249. <h4><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Encourage kids to share their failures with trusted friends and adults.</span></span><span class="eop"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></h4>
  1250. </li>
  1251. </ul>
  1252. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Here are some activities to do as a family to help instill a faith-growth mindset:</span></span><span class="eop"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></h6>
  1253. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b><span lang="EN-US">Pressing On<br />
  1254. </span></b></span><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Gather origami paper, Glue Dots, and scissors. Download craft instructions from </span></span><span lang="EN-US"><a title="http://www.childrensministry.com/origami-star" href="http://www.childrensministry.com/origami-star" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="normaltextrun">childrensministry.com/origami-star</span></a></span><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US"> and make a sample ahead of time. Show family members the star and have them make their own. Offer encouragement and help, as needed. Read <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+3%3A12-15&amp;version=CSB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Philippians 3:12-15</a> and say: “Paul loved Jesus but still messed up. He pressed on, just as you did with this craft.” Ask: “How can these verses help you press on, even when you mess up?”</span></span><span class="eop"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></h6>
  1255. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b><span lang="EN-US">Take Aim!<br />
  1256. </span></b></span><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">For this outdoor game, divide a rectangular area in half. Play “volleyball” with an inflated balloon and squirt guns. Players can use unlimited squirts to move the “ball.” Afterward, ask: “What was this game’s goal? How did we work to reach it? What are some goals you have? Who helps you reach them?” Read <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+16%3A7-8&amp;version=CSB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Psalm 16:7-8</a>. Say: “God instructs you and goes before you as you aim for goals!”</span></span><span class="eop"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></h6>
  1257. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b><span lang="EN-US">Growth Takes Time<br />
  1258. </span></b></span><span class="normaltextrun"><span lang="EN-US">Fill clean baby food jars halfway with heavy cream. (You can add a marble, but use caution.) Secure the lids. Ask: “Does this look like butter? Do you think you can <i>make</i> it into butter?” Say: “Shake a jar while we talk.” Read <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+17%3A14-20&amp;version=CSB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Matthew 17:14-20</a>. Ask: “How much faith does it take to do the impossible? What tough thing do you need God’s help with?” Shake jars a few more minutes, until butter forms. Enjoy some on bread. Then discuss how it can take time to see God’s miracles—and how we shouldn’t give up!</span></span><span class="eop"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></h6>
  1259. <p>Get Social</p>
  1260. <p>Recent Posts</p>
  1261. <p>Categories</p>
  1262. <p>Authors</p>
  1263. <p><strong><span style="color: #58585a;">About the Author:</span> <span style="color: #00b4ad;"><a style="color: #00b4ad;" href="http://farodeluz.ca/category/bya-blog/stephanie-holmberg/">stephanie holmberg</a></span></strong></p>
  1264. <p>http://farodeluz.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Stephanie-1.png</p>
  1265. <p>Stephanie is a wife, mother, pastor, and friend who is passionate about seeing people live authentic, purpose-filled lives. When not working alongside her amazing kidmin team, you will find her at home spending time with her family, snuggling her furry friend Milo, or out exploring all the amazing places Edmonton has to offer.</p>
  1266. ]]></content:encoded>
  1270. </item>
  1271. <item>
  1272. <title>Beyond Happy: Finding Joy in God</title>
  1273. <link>https://farodeluz.ca/%oracion%/</link>
  1275. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Beulah Alliance Church]]></dc:creator>
  1276. <pubDate>Fri, 13 Aug 2021 16:38:06 +0000</pubDate>
  1277. <category><![CDATA[KidZone]]></category>
  1278. <category><![CDATA[Stephanie Holmberg]]></category>
  1279. <category><![CDATA[Discipling Kids]]></category>
  1280. <category><![CDATA[Faith]]></category>
  1281. <category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
  1282. <category><![CDATA[Raising Kids]]></category>
  1283. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://beulah.ca/staging/3976/2021/08/13/beyond-happy-finding-joy-in-god/</guid>
  1284.  
  1285. <description><![CDATA[In today’s society, happiness is often associated with external circumstances, possessions, and wealth. The Bible, however, teaches that happiness is more of an internal condition—and that it results from God’s [&#8230;]]]></description>
  1286. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun">In today’s society, happiness is often associated with external circumstances, possessions, and wealth. The Bible, however, teaches that happiness is more of an internal condition—and that it results from God’s blessing, love, and grace. </span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  1287. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun">Studies show that spirituality is a key factor in children’s happiness, even more so than it is for adults. Researcher Mark Holder found that spirituality accounts for up to 16% of children’s happiness, more than three times the typical number for grownups. “It’s a whopping big effect,” he says, admitting that he’d assumed children’s spirituality “would be too immature to account for their well-being.” </span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  1288. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun">Jesus doesn’t promise his followers they’ll be happy, but he does give us many reasons to be joyful—even when earthly life is filled with challenges and trials. Scripture reminds us to always rejoice, or “be full of joy in the Lord” (Philippians 4:4). </span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  1289. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun">“Joy,” not happiness, is listed as a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), and true joy comes from being friends with Jesus. Believing in a Saviour who offers forgiveness and eternal life leads to inner joy and peace, as well as “outer joy” that’s evident to others. Living in a joy-filled way, no matter what we’re facing, is a powerful witness to other people—especially to those who don’t yet know Jesus. </span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  1290. <h4><span id="en-CSB-29167" class="text Gal-5-22">But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, </span> <span id="en-CSB-29168" class="text Gal-5-23">gentleness, and self-control. The law is not against such things.</span></h4>
  1291. <h4 style="text-align: right;">Galatians 5:22-23 CSB</h4>
  1292. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b>Rejoice in the Lord Always<br />
  1293. </b></span><span class="normaltextrun">Attitudes are contagious, as most parents know. A negative attitude can cast a cloud over an entire family. For children, negativity may be a way to seek love and attention. Instead of excluding or punishing a child with a sour attitude, show God’s love through your actions and words (including prayer). Immediately stop any negative comments and put-downs before things escalate, but correct children in private if possible. Praise children’s efforts to overcome a negative attitude. Most of all, let kids know that Jesus loves them unconditionally—and that true joy comes only from him. </span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  1294. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b>Spread the Joy<br />
  1295. </b></span><span class="normaltextrun">Have family members stand in a line behind you. Say: “I’ll turn around and show a happy or silly face to the next person, who then turns around and imitates it to the next person, and so on. When the face reaches the back of the line, that person runs to the front and makes a new face to spread.” After everyone gets a turn, read aloud <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+49%3A13a&amp;version=CSB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Isaiah 49:13a</a>. Talk about why you love God and how he gives you smiles of joy. </span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  1296. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b>Restoring Our Joy<br />
  1297. </b></span><span class="normaltextrun">Give family members two minutes to each shape a lump of clay into a “joy crusher,” or something that gets in the way of their happiness. When time’s up, share your creations. Read aloud <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James+1%3A2-4&amp;version=CSB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">James 1:2-4</a> and discuss how we can be joyful during troubles—and why. Then read John 15:11 and discuss how Jesus and his love bring us joy. Without a time limit, reshape the joy crushers into actions or attitudes that can restore our joy. </span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  1298. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b>Rejoice Race<br />
  1299. </b></span><span class="normaltextrun">Form a circle of chairs, with one less chair than the number of family members. Have everyone else sit while you stand and be It. Explain that It will point to someone and say, “Rejoice in the Lord!” That person must give a reason to rejoice (or be thankful) before It counts to 10. If they can’t, they become the new It. If It says, “Everyone rejoice in the Lord!” all players (including It) must stand and find a new seat. The person left standing is the new It. After playing, read <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Thessalonians+5%3A16-18&amp;version=CSB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">1 Thessalonians 5:16-18</a> and discuss why it’s important to give thanks joyfully. </span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  1300. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b>Smile-o-Meters<br />
  1301. </b></span><span class="normaltextrun">Use Fruit Roll-Up snacks or tape-shaped bubble gum to measure one another’s biggest smiles. Then place all the “smiles” on a clean table. Read <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job+8%3A21&amp;version=CSB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Job 8:21</a>. Ask: “What makes you happy or joyful? How big do you think God smiles when he thinks of you?” Unroll a long smile for God and enjoy the treats. </span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
  1302. <h6 class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><b>Don’t Steal My Joy!<br />
  1303. </b></span><span class="normaltextrun">Blindfold one person sitting at a table by three beanbags of “joy.” Other family members should take turns trying to sneak up and steal the joy. The blindfolded person must listen carefully, then point and yell, “Stop thief!” Give everyone a turn. Then read <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+10%3A10&amp;version=CSB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">John 10:10</a> and ask: “In real life, what are some things that steal our joy (for example, worry, anger, jealousy, fear, lack of sleep)? How does Jesus give us joy that can never be taken away from us?” Read <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+15%3A9-11&amp;version=CSB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">John 15:9-11</a>. Say: “When we remember that Jesus loves us and we obey him, joy stays inside us!” </span><span class="eop"> </span></h6>
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  1308. <p><strong><span style="color: #58585a;">About the Author:</span> <span style="color: #00b4ad;"><a style="color: #00b4ad;" href="http://farodeluz.ca/category/bya-blog/stephanie-holmberg/">stephanie holmberg</a></span></strong></p>
  1309. <p>http://farodeluz.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Stephanie-1.png</p>
  1310. <p>Stephanie is a wife, mother, pastor, and friend who is passionate about seeing people live authentic, purpose-filled lives. When not working alongside her amazing kidmin team, you will find her at home spending time with her family, snuggling her furry friend Milo, or out exploring all the amazing places Edmonton has to offer.</p>
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