At this time of year, people in some denominations lead into Easter by preparing their hearts and drawing closer to God through a formal time of prayer, fasting, and giving. But even if your denomination doesn’t formally practice this observance, drawing our hearts closer to God is still a worthwhile pursuit.
In Matthew 13 Jesus talked about how good soil was key to a good harvest. A farmer who ignores the soil will have bad soil, but if he works to make the soil good, it will produce a great harvest.
So it is with us. Jesus said that we can “produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted.” That’s both overwhelming and exciting!
When we pray, fast, and give, we’re preparing the “soil” of our hearts. We’re aligning ourselves with God and his great work.
And it’s never too early to teach our children to work the soil of our hearts. How can your family create soil-strengthening habits?
ASK GOD:
1. To help you look for ways to grow closer to him—and not just at certain times of the year.
2. For opportunities to teach your kids how to block out distractions and focus on him.
3. To help you be intentional with the way you lead your kids.
