All in The BetterMom Updates

10 Reasons to be Thankful

Carlie Kercheval
Following God, Hope, Prayer, The BetterMom Updates

One thing that life has taught me, specifically the Christ-centered life, is to be thankful. There are so many reasons to give thanks to God. I find that if we focus on the little, everyday things, it makes for a more joy-filled and peaceful life. But if we are being truthful, there are times that we are so self-centered that we forget to give God thanks for the simple, everyday things life brings our way.

Last night while I was in prayer I heard the Lord whisper softly, "Remind my people to be thankful." And while this post will be seen by many, please know dear sister, that I write this list for myself just as much as I write it for you. As you read the items on this list, think of some things that you could be more appreciative of. Be sure and make a conscious decision to be thankful. There is always something to be thankful for, even in the most difficult situations - God is in the midst of it all. Let's cultivate an attitude of thankfulness today, and every day.

My Favorite Family Read Alouds {For Cold Winter Days!}

Kristen Kill
Babies, Boys, Fun For Kids, Girls, Homemaking, Homeschooling, Parenting, Teens, The BetterMom Updates, Toddlers

We love to get lost in books around here. I’m always on the hunt for titles to read to my whole crew…and I mean my whole crew. With four kids spanning the ages of thirteen down to six, I have to keep hunting for books we can all chew on and sit still for. We love to cuddle up on couches, on the floor or under the covers with big cups of tea and a great story. It is really the sweetest moments we make together. As the cold weather gets colder, we need this time more and more.

If you're looking for books to warm the hearts in your home too, here is my list of favorite Read- Alouds that children (and adults) of every age will find captivating!

The Verse That You Need Taped To Your Refrigerator

Jessica Smartt
Following God, The BetterMom Updates

A few months ago, we came home from the hospital with our newborn baby daughter. One summer night our little family was gathered out on the driveway, kids playing, my husband and I still in the beaming/wow-we-did-it/exhausted stage.

Our sweet neighbors came over to say hi; they'd just had a baby, too.

After the "she's-beautiful"s and "how-are-you-doing"s were over, our friend leaned in and said something that just jolted me out of my sleep-deprived haze.

"Guys, I need to tell you something," he said. "You wanna know your verse for this season? It's John 10:10."

Oh, I remembered that verse. We used it when I worked as Young Life leader in college. "I have come that you might have life, and have it to the full."

When I Forget To Ask

Natalie
Following God, Hope, Parenting, Prayer, The BetterMom Updates

Some days seem longer than others.

Those days when I am not the mom I want my kids to learn from.

The other night after each of my children fell asleep I went into their rooms. I felt like I didn't enjoy them that day.

It wasn't until they fell asleep, when I realized that my patience level was embarrassing to admit. I held each of their hands and watched their peaceful faces as they were sleeping. I began to cry and ask God for help. I thought about how it was the only time I had asked him for help that day.

I talked to each of my dreaming babies about how much I love them. How much I really do enjoy them but I forget about what really matters. I forget that speaking truth to their hearts is much more important than how they act on the outside.

4 Practical Ways to Reach the Heart of Your Child

Christin
Discipling Children, Following God, Parenting, Prayer, The BetterMom Updates

Our children are in a stage of shaping and growing while under our care. They have so much potential and we have so much influence in this season. Often we have goals and ideals for our children that we want to implement but aren't sure how to do that in a practical way.

And sometimes I think we can overcomplicate something that can really be quite simple. Sometimes it's not always easy making the hard decisions for our children, but the Bible gives us some great direction as parents.

So here are 4 things you can do to reach the heart of your child.

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