A gathering designed to connect women, mothers, and children to learn and be encouraged in their faith through devotionals and prayer.
Pray & Play is Playgroup with a Purpose!
Pray & Play uses inspiring devotionals to help mothers connect with God, each other, and their communities. These user-friendly devotionals set the scene for a fun and inspirational gathering, every time you get together.
And you can get together wherever you want: in a home, at the park, at a fast-food restaurant. Or maybe your group prefers a church, community center, or backyard. You choose! Just take this book along and share the encouragement inside it, wherever the Lord leads.
When you start, you will have:
• Connections with new friends
• Tips for improving your marriage
• Building blocks of faith and meaningful play for your children
• Prayer support for your family
Check out online Pray & Play resources at www.stonecroft.org/prayandplay, including a downloadable Leader’s Guide, videos, and ways to network with other Pray & Play groups.
Stonecroft Ministries
Our mission is to equip and encourage women to impact their communities with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Through small group Bible study and outreach groups across 64 countries, Stonecroft Ministries equips and encourages women of all ages, stages, and faces. Stonecroft’s culturally-relevant ministry materials and resources are grounded in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and help develop individuals into leaders who make each day count for eternity.
• Stonecroft Bible Studies guide participants simply, yet profoundly, into a rich relationship with the One who has so much to say to them.
• Stonecroft Biblical Training Tools include AWARE Evangelism (Always Watch And Respond with Encouragement).
• Stonecroft Life Publications clearly explain the life-changing Gospel message. (See “Good News” on page 39.)
• Training Events equip women in evangelism, prayer, and leadership.
• Tens of thousands of dedicated volunteers across America and in 64 countries, supported by Stonecroft’s field and Home Office staff, positively impact their communities with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Learn more about Stonecroft Ministries now! Visit us at stonecroft.org or call us at 800.525.8627.
The Basket of Your Heart
Mom Tip: Nurturing a Childlike Faith
(Jesus) said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” — Mark 10:14, NIV
You are Beautiful
Read Proverbs 31:10-31.
Devotional
Have you ever seen someone you know go from pretty to beautiful, as if she was being transformed right before your eyes? To some, pretty describes a woman who is attractive on the outside. Beautiful, however, describes attractive qualities found inside and out, like a rosebud that blossoms in fullness and fragrance.
How would you like to be described?
• A woman of great worth
• A woman of noble character
• A woman worth far more than rubies
This kind of beauty is evident in the lives of women who have allowed the God who created them to do the transforming. Over and over in the Bible, God provides examples of people who go from ordinary to extraordinary, from plain to beautiful. Nothing transforms a woman’s appearance more than being covered from head to toe in the grace of Jesus Christ.
When a woman comes to know God as her Savior, a sparkle appears in her eyes, and a radiance comes over her countenance. A holy, calm resolve appears and affirms that her God is real; she can walk with Him and trust Him with her life, problems, fears—anything. When a woman comes to know God and allows Him to fill her heart with His boundless, unconditional love, it shows on the outside. This kind of beauty has nothing to do with cosmetics or plastic surgery. On the contrary, it’s an inside job! A heart full of God’s love produces a face full of joy.
When I began attending a woman’s Bible study for the first time many years ago, it seemed as though these women had an indescribable beauty, something deeper than outward appearance. It wasn’t just their clothing, hairstyles, cosmetics, or their bodies. It was something beyond the surface. I wanted what they had.
I became very intentional about discovering what was at the root of such beauty. I began to study God’s Word, the Bible. I would listen to these women and began to seek God and know Him personally. Along the journey I learned some amazing truths about beauty. This beauty is a gift from God. Unlike lipstick, blush, and mascara—which seldom last longer than a few hours— spiritual beauty is different. It literally pours out of your pores and alters your appearance in a most appealing way. People will think you had a facelift, when in reality you had a “faith-lift.”
In Proverbs 31, King Lemuel’s mother talks to her son about the kind of woman he should consider marrying. She describes for him what a woman of noble character looks like. As women, we all leave a legacy. The woman King Lemuel’s mother described is a wonderful model for us. Throughout our lives we often seek women, mothers, and wives to set an example for us, women who model what a woman of noble character looks like.
This mother itemized some amazing characteristics and attributes that her son was to look for. If we allow these attributes to become part of our character, the beauty we display will be worth far more than rubies.
Desirable traits of the Proverbs 31 woman:
• Her husband has full confidence in her. She does him good and not harm all the days of his life.
• She works hard and diligently (in the home, outside, in the garden, at the workplace).
• She cooks, looks for good buys, budgets money, desires and tries to serve healthy meals.
• She has a heart of tenderness and compassion for the needy. She notices those in need and helps when she can. She does not look down on others less fortunate than herself.
• She is clothed in strength and dignity.
• She can laugh at the days ahead; she does not fear growing older, but sees it as a blessing.
• She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
This Proverbs 31 woman is a beautiful woman. She lives with a holy purpose. The result of being a woman with these traits is immeasurable. Above all else, she loves and fears her God! This, dear moms, is you: beautiful, transformed, and a model to those who know and love you.
• Do you have a woman in your life that you want to model as a mother or a wife?
• Where do you suppose the Proverbs 31 woman receives faithful instruction (verse 26)?
• What traits of the Proverbs 31 woman appeal to you the most, and why?
• Would you want to model this kind of woman to your son or daughter?
Building Blocks for Your Children
Talk to your children about how beautiful and unique they are. God made them special, with their own DNA, fingerprints, and personalities. He even knows the number of hairs on their heads.
God’s Word says:
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful. I know that full well.” — Psalm 139:14, NIV
• Ask your child to tell you the color of his/her hair and eyes.
• Is it different from other family members or friends?
• Talk to each child about how God made them beautiful, just the way they are.
Verse to Remember
“Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.”
— Proverbs 31:28, NIV
Prayer Time
Find another mom to pray with and share heart to heart.
Pray for:
Our Children
Our Marriages
Our Neighbors
Our Schools
Our Churches
Our Nation and Leaders
Special Requests
Connecting
How can I use what I’ve learned today to positively impact my relationships with God, my family, and others?
Teachable Moments
“You shall teach [God’s commandments] diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.” — Deuteronomy 6:7, NKJV
Devotional
The Israelites came out of the wilderness after 40 years and were about to enter the Promised Land. God instructed Moses to tell the people to love and obey God and to teach their children about God’s commandments. The Hebrews were extremely successful at making their religion an important part of their family lives. They believed that religion should be life-centered.
We need to help our children understand that God is not just at church; He is everywhere. The locations for instruction from verse 7 include sitting at home, traveling, lying down, and rising. These locations offer teachable moments throughout the day. These are times to talk, pray, sing, do something for others, even look something up in the Bible. Prayerfully prepare for teachable moments, and use life situations as opportunities to talk with children about God.
• Can you share a “teachable moment” with us?
• What important lesson can you teach your children about God?
Sometimes as parents we feel helpless, confused, and ineffective, but God knows all about parenting. He designed family life. God gives us everything we need to teach our children. When we follow His commandments, we are prepared to teach our children.
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.” — Deuteronomy 6:5, NKJV
Please take time to read the entire chapter of Deuteronomy 6. It contains the underlying principle in God’s method of teaching. Every aspect of family life offers children lessons in order for them to live godly lives.
• Has there ever been a time when God was pushed to the bottom of your list?
• Talk to your children about what happens when God is crowded out of our lives.
• How do you handle times when God isn’t first in your life?
Building Blocks for Your Children
Gather the children around, sitting on the floor or in laps. Sing the song “Open, Shut Them”—use your hands to demonstrate (open hands, then make a fist, clap, open hands, fold in your lap).
Open, shut them
Open, shut them
Give a little clap, clap, clap
Open, shut them
Open, shut them
Put them on your lap
Talk to your children about how blessed you are. God chose you to be your child’s mother. Wow, what a privilege! Talk about responsibilities and privileges. Now it’s time to pray. Talk to the children about prayer time and their behavior during this time. Have them stay sitting on laps during the prayer time today—this is a teachable moment!
Verse to Remember
“You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength.” — Deuteronomy 6:5, NLT
Prayer Time
Find another mom to pray with and share heart to heart. Lift each other up in the Lord. Thank God for your children and pray for opportunities to teach them. Give God the glory.
Pray for:
Our Children
Our Marriages
Our Neighbors
Our Schools
Our Churches
Our Nation and Leaders
Special Requests
Connecting
How can I use what I’ve learned today to positively impact my relationships with God, my family, and others?
Greenhouse
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” — Romans 12:2, NIV
“I will speak to you in a parable. I will teach you hidden lessons from our past—stories we have heard and known, stories our ancestors have told us.” — Psalm 78:2-3, NLT
“[God] decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our forefathers to teach their children.” — Psalm 78:5, NIV
“We will not hide these truths from our children.” — Psalm 78:4, NLT
“So the next generation might know them—even the children not yet born—and they in turn will teach their own children. So each generation should set its hope anew on God, not forgetting his glorious miracles and obeying his commands.” —Psalm 78:6-7, NLT
Devotional
Is my home a greenhouse where souls are refreshed with the water of the living God?
Have you ever gone to a country nursery, one that is charming, inviting, lush, and well watered? While strolling around looking at shrubs and plants, a greenhouse catches your eye. What are they growing in there? What fantastic blooming plants are thriving in this temperature-controlled building, a building within the nursery, yet set apart?
Your home is much like a greenhouse: in the world but not of the world, a cultivating center where hearts are nurtured while learning godly character and biblical truth. Lives are protected from the storms of life; souls are watered with the Word of the living God. Nutrients are given to the soil of your families’ hearts to keep them soft and teachable. It is a place of safety, peace, instruction, discipline, and unconditional love.
This greenhouse is where you daily and consistently strengthen each individual living there, providing them time to grow strong, secure, and independent. Allow the sun (Son) to shine through the windows; this will bring light to every situation and warmth to every room.
This greenhouse is where you teach your children to know and love God. Then they will put their trust in Him and tell their own children the mighty deeds of their Lord.
• How is your house safe from the rest of the world?
• Share a time when you were able to share God’s love with your children.
• How can we teach our children to put their trust in God and not forget His deeds but keep His commands?
• What are some ways that you daily teach your children God’s Word?
Building Blocks for Your Children
From “Seeds” (Author Unknown):
A little seed for me to sow
A little earth to make it grow
A little hole, a little pat,
A little wish, and that is that,
A little sun, a little shower.
A little while—
And then, a flower!
Discuss with the children what it takes to grow a plant from a seed. You can demonstrate this by having some sunflower seeds, a small pot with soil, and a watering can. Talk to them about how we need to be watered with the Word of God daily in order to grow spiritually.
Share a story of when you took a stand for God or another person.
• Were you scared?
• What was the outcome?
Discuss with your child how taking a stand for God might mean they have to explain why they attend church or Sunday school, or why they pray.
• Remind them to do everything with gentleness and love.
• Remind them they are never alone; God will help them.
Verse to Remember
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” — Romans 12:2, NIV
Prayer Time
Let us worship the Lord in His greatness and holiness, praising Him for providing and protecting us.
Pray for:
Our Children
Our Marriages
Our Neighbors
Our Schools
Our Churches
Our Nation and Leaders
Special Requests
The Basket of Your Heart
“So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.”
— Galatians 5:16, NIV
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. Against such things there is no law.”— Galatians 5:22–23, NIV
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.” — John 15:1, NIV
Devotional
God made us in His image and He knows what is best for us. He understands the war that rages within the human heart to do what is right or wrong. Our God is holy and personal, and yet He is very practical.
God teaches us lessons through creation to help us understand simple concepts of living. In John 15, Jesus tells us that He is the vine and that if we are to bear good fruit, we must abide in Him. Think about what Christ is saying: He is telling us that no branch can bear fruit by itself. The branch must remain on the vine. If the branch remains and abides on the vine, it will bear much fruit.
It is the same with you and me. As women, wives, and mothers, we desire to exhibit the fruit of God in our daily lives. Our days are filled with many activities and tasks that must be done. The second our feet hit the floor, someone or something calls out for our time and attention. If we have spent time abiding in the vine, our responses to those we love and life’s circumstances will be greatly affected.
I have seen this example in women who have mentored me. I would love to pass along a practical way of abiding and producing the kind of fruit that will touch and bless those with whom you come into contact on a daily basis.
• Get an index card and write out the Galatians passage about the fruit of the Spirit. Consider putting it in a pretty frame in your bedroom, so it will be the first thing you see when your feet hit the floor.
• Use the verse as a prayer or as part of your prayer for the day.
• You will find that this verse will become part of your heart, and you will be able to call upon it when you need it.
• Here is a visual explanation of how God might cultivate fruit within your heart. Fill a basket with all kinds of fruit. With a felt pen, write the name of each fruit on the individual pieces.
(For example, write “JOY” on the apple, “LOVE” on the banana, “PEACE” on the orange, etc.) As you take the time to thank God for this day and ask Him to fill your heart with His fruit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control— know that throughout the day, God will give you opportunities to share this fruit.
• When your child throws a temper tantrum, you have the opportunity to exhibit selfcontrol and patience.
• If someone says something that makes you want to lash out, you have the opportunity to give a little kindness.
• When your husband walks in late and the kids have already eaten, you have the love of Christ to offer him instead of anger.
At the end of the day, your basket will be empty and you must return again to the vine. What is the benefit of filling your heart each day with this fruit? What can you do to make abiding in the vine a priority?
Take time right now to write the fruit of the Spirit on an index card. Keep it with you and read it often.
Building Blocks for Your Children
From the song, “Have Patience”: Have patience, have patience, don’t be in such a hurry. Have patience, have patience don’t be in such a hurry.
Talk to your children about the fruit of the Spirit and how they can choose to have them and give them away.
Verse to Remember
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. Against such things there is no law.” — Galatians 5:22–23, NIV
Prayer Time
Find another mom to pray with, share your concerns heart to heart, and lift each other up in the Lord.
Pray for:
Our Children
Our Marriages
Our Neighbors
Our Schools
Our Churches
Our Nation and Leaders
Special Requests
Mom Tip: Nurturing a Childlike Faith
It’s never too early to start laying the groundwork for passing on our precious godly inheritance. Studies show newborn babies turning toward the sound of their mother’s voice moments after birth. Psalm 139:13 describes how God “knit me together in my mother’s womb.” Just think—a mother-to-be can pat her pregnant belly, sing “Jesus Loves Me,” and know in her heart that both God and her baby are listening!
Now that you are able to teach your children about God face-to-face, get them their own ageappropriate Bibles and read Scripture together. Point out passages that apply to situations they may be in right now.
• Do thunderstorms scare them? Show them where Jesus calmed the storm on the lake (Matthew 8:23-27), or where God used a whirlwind to take Elijah up into heaven (2 Kings 2).
• Do they feel so small that they wonder if God knows who they are? Show them 1 Kings 13:2, where King Josiah was prophesied by name 300 years before he took the throne at the age of 8 (2 Kings 22:1).
• Is there a bully in their lives? Read about David and how he stood up to a giant, even when all his friends ran away (1 Samuel 17).
Surround your children with activities and acquaintances who encourage them to look at things from God’s point of view. When we make God an important part of every day, the groundwork is set for them to develop their own relationship with a very personal Savior. (See “Good News” on page 39.)
“Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’” —Matthew 19:14, NIV
DEVOTIONALS — PART II
Teaching Our Children
Take Time to Sing and Dance
Words
are Powerful
You are a Gardener
Mom Tip: Fantasy or Falsehood?
(Jesus) said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”
— Mark 10:14, NIV
Teaching our Children
“My son, keep your father’s commands and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. Bind them upon your heart forever, fasten them around your neck. When you walk, they will guide you; when you sleep, they will watch over you; when you wake, they will speak to you.” — Proverbs 6:20-21, NIV
“Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road and when you lie down and when you get up.” — Deuteronomy 11:18-19, NIV
Devotional
Your teachings have great importance. What you teach your children impacts their everyday life. Your instructions are lights for their lives and speak to them even when you are not there.
We have the privilege of shaping the minds of our children. Simple acts done each day, simple seeds sown consistently, one at a time, seemingly small, but the harvest they reap will not be measurable.
There is a story about a young man who used to sit on his mother’s lap everyday while she read her Bible. She would slowly run her fingers under each word as she read. This is how he learned to read as a boy, but he learned more than reading during his times on his mother’s lap. He learned about God, about right and wrong, and about good and evil. His mind was forming and pondering every word she read. He said his mother didn’t mean for this to happen; she just loved reading her Bible. He said learning about God and good and evil didn’t come from a sermon at church; those lessons came from his mother’s attempt to establish and strengthen her own walk with God.
What an opportunity we have been given! We have the privilege of showing our children who God is by our attempts to establish and strengthen our own relationship with God. It has been said that faith is caught, not taught. There are so many things we can teach our children by simply modeling faith.
• What do you desire to teach your child?
• How can you model love for your God in the small, everyday routine?
• Our words are so powerful. Do you have catchy phrases?
• What will you read to your children during the day and night that will shape their minds and hearts?
Building Blocks for Your Children
Let’s play a game! Teach the children how to play “Red Light/Green Light.” Talk to them about obeying the directions of the one saying “red light” or “green light.” Explain how this is related to obeying parents and God’s Word.
From “God’s Wisdom for Little Boys” by Jim and Elizabeth George: God teaches children that they should obey The rules set by others and do what they say. And God’s little boy/girl makes no exceptions— He always minds and follows directions.
• Do your children have boundaries?
• Do you stick to the boundaries you have set for your children and yourself?
• What are you teaching your children with the boundaries that you have set for them?
• Talk to your children about the boundaries you have set for them and why they need to obey you.
Verse to Remember
“Children, always obey your parents, for this pleases the Lord.” — Colossians 3:20, NLT
Prayer Time
Let us worship God in His majesty and holiness, praising Him for providing and protecting us.
Pray for:
Our Children
Our Marriages
Our Neighbors
Our Schools
Our Churches
Our Nation and Leaders
Special Requests
Connecting
How can I use what I’ve learned today to positively impact my relationships with God, my family, and others?
Take Time to Sing and Dance
“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs.” — Psalm 100:1-2, NIV
“Let them praise the LORD for his great love and for the wonderful things he has done for them. Let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving and sing joyfully about his glorious acts.” — Psalm 107:21-22, NLT
“Let [us] praise his name with dancing and make music to him with tambourine and harp.” — Psalm 149:3, NIV
“Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
— Ephesians 5:19-20, NIV
Devotional
So many memories are made within the walls of our homes as we raise our children and live life. Growing up, I had a friend whose home was filled with music and celebration. I remember walking up to her house and hearing the pleasant sounds of the piano coming from her open window. It was so inviting and uplifting. It was such a comforting and reassuring sound. My friend’s mother would always invite us to sing along as she played the music. We would sing and dance and swing each other around. Those times in her home brought joy to my heart and encouragement to my soul.
As a young mother, I desired to fill my own home with music and dancing. Many days I would put praise music on just before I had to wake up the children to get them ready for school. Today, as “Nana,” I love to put on music and dance with my grandchildren. I love to watch their faces light up as they sing and jump and dance through the house.
Yes, music and praise have a way of filling our hearts and homes with joy. They can help lift the dark cloud of depression and energize and revitalize your body, soul, and spirit. It is good to celebrate life and the goodness of God. It can put a spring in your step and help change the mood in your home. Music can fill your mind with good thoughts, thankfulness, and praise. Singing and dancing can lift our spirits and the spirits of those within our home. It can also create a soothing and calm atmosphere.
• What kinds of sounds are coming from your home?
• When was the last time you sang and danced like a child?
• Share some ways you use music to celebrate life with your family.
Building Blocks for Your Children
Find a children’s worship CD and play it for the children. Have them dance and sing with the music. Encourage them to be free to express how much fun it is to dance and sing. Explain that we can do this and praise Jesus at the same time.
• Play music at home and when you are driving in your car.
• Be available to dance with your children when a song they recognize is playing and they want to dance.
Verse to Remember
“Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise.” —James 5:13, NIV
Prayer Time
Find another mom to pray with and share heart to heart.
Pray for:
Our Children
Our Marriages
Our Neighbors
Our Schools
Our Churches
Our Nation and Leaders
Special Requests
Connecting
How can I use what I’ve learned today to positively impact my relationships with God, my family, and others?
Words are Powerful
“Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies.” — Psalm 34:13, NIV
“The mouths of the righteous utter wisdom and tongues speak what is just.” — Psalm 37:30, TNIV
“Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.” — Proverbs 21:23, TNIV
“Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves and their religion is worthless.” — James 1:26, TNIV
“Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.” — James 3:5-6, TNIV
Devotional
Our words are powerful. We can remember words spoken to us years ago. One small word can brighten our day or sear our hearts.
The tongue may be small like a rudder on a ship, and it is just as powerful. A rudder is a moveable flat piece hinged at the stern of a ship for the purpose of steering the vessel. Though small, it can steer a large vessel into safe waters or stormy seas. The words we speak can turn a conversation toward calm seas or stormy waters.
Have you ever pressed the button on top of a can of whipping cream or shaving cream and dispensed too much? No matter how hard you try, there is no way to put the cream back into the can.
This is what it is like when we speak a word or words to someone. The words cannot be put back into our mouths no matter how much we wish they could.
Literally speaking, the tongue is an organ of taste and speech. Figuratively speaking, the tongue is the rudder of the soul. The words that come from the mouth emanate from the soul, and can sometimes be glib, scolding, flattering, cynical, dividing, gossiping, contentious, and angry. Our words can also be loving, kind, encouraging, and soothing to the soul. You might say that our words can bring life into our marriages and relationships, or death. They can build up our children and help them understand life’s truths, or they can demean our children and cause them to lose hope.
The following statements can really help when raising a family and dealing with life’s situations:
• “Say what you mean, mean what you say, but don’t say it mean.”
• “You never have to apologize for speaking words of kindness.”
Questions to ponder:
• How might thinking before we speak make a difference in the mood of our home and the outcome of a conversation?
• How do the Bible verses above help you understand the power of words?
• Can you give an example of the outcome of speaking before thinking?
• Can you give an example of a time when you really thought before you spoke and saw a positive outcome?
Building Blocks for Your Children
Depending on the ages of the children present, you can try the following ideas for demonstrating to your children how powerful our words are. (You may want to do this outside or in a place where it is okay to make a mess.) Take a tube of toothpaste and have a child squirt out a sizable amount. Ask the children to put the toothpaste back into the tube. (They will, of course, respond after trying and making a bit of a mess.) Talk about how once we let the words we speak come out of our mouths, we can’t put them back in our mouths. We must choose to think about what we want to speak before we say the words.
• Talk to your children about thinking about their words before they speak.
• Discuss how words can hurt other’s feelings and why we need to speak kind words.
Verse to Remember
“Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.” — Psalm 34:13, TNIV
Prayer Time
Let us find another mom to pray with and share heart to heart.
Pray for:
Our Children
Our Marriages
Our Neighbors
Our Schools
Our Churches
Our Nation and Leaders
Special Requests
You Are a Gardener
“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” —Galatians 5:22-23, NIV
“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” —Colossians 2:6-7, NIV
“She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.”—Proverbs 31:26, NIV
Devotional
You may not see yourself as a gardener, but rest assured—you are one. The soil you are tending each and every day is the soil of the human heart.
Our children’s hearts are fertile fields where seeds are sown on a daily basis. You have the opportunity to plant love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. As gardeners, we can protect our precious fields from destructive intruders that would come in and try to harm the soil. The seeds we plant will be positively affected if our life is rooted in the Word of God.
There will be many opportunities as we walk along the way to fill the soil of our children with the marvelous wonders of the Lord’s creation. We could point up to the beautiful full moon and tell our children, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the works of His hands” —Psalm 19:1, NIV. When we see a beautiful flower, we could stop and take a moment to share the beauty and the fragrance of such a treasure.
When your heart is filled with thankfulness because of what God has done for you, it spills over into the soil of your child’s heart. What a privilege to help your children learn to appreciate the simplest of things because of the words you use to celebrate life. As a mother, you are willing to struggle through seasons of drought, then rejoice at the smallest growth. Responding to life’s circumstances with patience and self-control are ways we can enrich the tender shoots as they grow.
It is important to not grow weary in tending these precious soils. One day there will be a harvest so great you will have to build extra barns in order to store the blessings and rewards that you will receive.
• What are some ways you are tending your children’s hearts?
• What kind of destructive intruders could come in and harm the soil of your child’s heart?
• How are you sowing seeds of God in the everyday life of your child?
• Do you have some new ideas you want to implement that encourage celebrating your family?
Building Blocks for Your Children
From “High Chair Devotions” by Marilyn J. Woody:
God is watching from above
With a kind of tender love.
When I eat, when I play, He is with me every day.
God is watching from above With a kind and tender love.
Jesus welcomed all the little children to come and see Him. He said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these” —
Mark 10:14, NIV. Jesus then took the children in His arms and blessed them. Even today, Jesus loves and cares for the little children.
Take some time now to gather the children and read them this precious promise from Jesus. During the prayer time, be intentional with the children present. Pray for them and bless them, as Jesus did.
• Pray with your children.
• Read a children’s Bible. You’ll be amazed to see the childlike faith that we are to have.
• Model Christ Jesus to your children.
Verse to Remember
“The Lord watches over you.” — Psalm 121:5, NIV
Prayer Time
Let us find another mom to pray with and share heart to heart.
Pray for:
Our Children
Our Marriages
Our Neighbors
Our Schools
Our Churches
Our Nation and Leaders
Special Requests
Mom Tip: Fantasy or Falsehood?
Imagination.
It captivates children, spurring them to create wonderful worlds and whimsical adventures. Imagination is a good thing—except when it’s used to dream up some way to avoid taking responsibility when we’ve done wrong.
The next time you catch your little one in a lie, try this:
• Keep your cool. The goal is to discipline and redirect, not punish.
• Expose the lie. “You didn’t tell the truth when you said…”.
• Acknowledge their motivation. “It can be scary to tell someone when you mess up,” or “You still wanted it, even though I said no.”
• Show why lying is wrong. Explain how your child or others were hurt, or could have been hurt, by the lie.
• Tie the fine to the offense. Stole a cookie? No dessert after dinner.
• Be consistent and clear. Take a no-tolerance stand against dishonesty and apply it to all your children—and yourself.
• Teach through roleplay. Make up situations where kids have to decide whether to lie or tell the truth. In your scenarios, the truth-teller always wins, even if it’s sometimes tough to do the right thing.
• Set a good example. Resist stretching the truth yourself, and children will follow your lead.
“Surely they are my people, children who will not deal falsely.” — Isaiah 63:8, ESV
DEVOTIONALS — PART III
Am I Prepared Spiritually for Each Day?
Manners and Tools for Building Godly Character
The Gift of Forgiveness
Laughter is Medicine for the Soul
Mom Tip: Cultivating Kindness
(Jesus) said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”
— Mark 10:14, NIV
Am I Prepared Spiritually for Each Day?
“Does a maiden forget her jewelry, a bride her wedding ornaments? Yet my people have forgotten me, days without number.” — Jeremiah 2:32, NIV
“Be careful that you do not forget the LORD, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.” — Deuteronomy 6:12, NIV
“Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced.” — 1 Chronicles 16:12, NIV
“Remember your Creator in the days of your youth.” — Ecclesiastes 12:1, NIV
Devotional
Each day, we wake up and get ready for another day. We pick out what we will wear, put on our make-up, and comb our hair. Finally, we add jewelry, maybe a belt and some fun shoes. Now we are ready to tackle the day!
Our morning routine begs some questions: How much time do I spend getting ready spiritually for each day? Did I spend time asking God to guide me through this day? Did I spend time with Him in His Word, meditating and pondering it so I can take the empty basket of my heart and have Him fill it with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control?
Or am I more concerned about getting beautiful, cleaning house, and getting on with my day than I am about the condition of my heart? Caring for our outward appearance isn’t wrong as long as we don’t neglect our inner thoughts, our attitudes, and our God. The prophet Jeremiah noted that women are unlikely to forget their accessories, but God’s people are prone to forget Him. If we are honest, we would admit that we are much like the Israelites. In the midst of our busy lives, God often gets pushed to the bottom of our to-do list. We must be intentional if we want to grow spiritually.
• While taking a shower, thank God for His cleansing power, the cleansing Jesus provides to us.
• While dressing, thank God for clothing us with the righteousness of Christ.
• While applying lotion, ask God to soften our hearts for the lost.
• While applying make-up, thank God for being the foundation of our lives.
• While putting in contacts or donning glasses, ask God to give us eyes to see His glory and to view other people the way He does.
• While adding earrings, ask Him to make us good listeners to our children, our husbands, our friends, and the still, small voice of our God.
If we begin each day in this way, our basket will be filled with luscious fruit to be given freely.
Building Blocks for Your Children
From Little Girls Bible Storybook by Carolyn Larsen: Saying thank you is just a nice thing to remember to do. Tell your children about a time when someone did a very nice thing for you. Did you remember to thank them? Can you recall a time when you helped someone and they thanked you? How did you feel? Did you want to do something for that person again? Make a list together of things God has done for you. Thank Him together. Try to remember to thank Him for one thing every day.
Verse to Remember
“Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim His greatness. Let the whole world know what He has done.” — 1 Chronicles 16:8, NLT
Prayer Time
Find another mom to pray with. Share your concerns heart to heart, and lift each other up in the Lord.
Pray for:
Our Children
Our Marriages
Our Neighbors
Our Schools
Our Churches
Our Nation and Leaders
Special Requests
Connecting
How can I use what I’ve learned today to positively impact my relationships with God, my family, and others?
Manners and Tools for Building Godly Character
“Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.”
— Proverbs 22:6, NIV
“Even a child is known by his actions, by whether his conduct is pure and right.”
— Proverbs 20:11, NIV
“Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.” — Colossians 3:20, NIV
Devotional
When I was a little girl, I loved to eat dinner at my girlfriend’s house. Her mother was a great cook and she made the table so pretty. It wasn’t so fancy that you felt uncomfortable, but she always seemed to celebrate mealtime. My friend had two brothers and two sisters, so the table was always filled with energy and chatter. But there was something different about her home. There was a reverence, or a respect, that was exhibited around the table. They all bowed their heads before eating and thanked God for the food and for each other. There was a sweet time of bonding that took place. Even when it seemed a little chaotic, there was a joy that flowed from just being together.
There was quite a different scene going on in my home. My father would usually eat his food while sitting in front of the TV, if he was home at dinner time. The table was never intentionally set or organized. It was more of a “come and get it” and “fend for yourself” mentality. No thank were ever given nor blessing said, and I can’t remember a time when we all just sat and ate and enjoyed one another’s company.
I guess that’s why I am so drawn to families who are intentional about mealtime. Mealtime can be an amazing avenue to teaching life skills, manners, and community to children. When I had my own family, I made a point to plan ahead and make mealtime a time we could look forward to. As a busy mother of three on a shoestring budget, it was not fancy, but the times around the table with our children are some of the best memories we’ve made as a family.
Let me share some ways I celebrated my family at mealtime:
• I planned meals and used coupons from the Sunday paper to save money.
• I had my children help me set the table and sometimes, just for fun, we would take a walk, cut wildflowers, and put them in a vase in the center of the table.
• On birthdays or special occasions, I would have the children write their names on a card with fun stickers and we would set them around the table as place cards.
• I started using a little stuffed animal called “The Manners Pig” at dinnertime. The Manners Pig sat in the middle of the table and if someone failed to use their manners, the little pig would sit in front of them until the next person was caught. The one with the Manners Pig in front of him or her at the end of the meal was to clear the table.
Here are the rules we wrote and put next to our little Manners Pig:
• Always thank God for the food and for those who prepared it.
• Keep your elbows off the table.
• Speak after you have swallowed your food.
• Say please and thank you when passing food.
• Ask to be excused from the table.
Building Blocks for Your Children
From “Thank You for the World So Sweet” (Author Unknown): Thank You for the world so sweet, Thank You for the food we eat. Thank You for the birds that sing, Thank You, God, for everything.
• What are some of the ways you are teaching your children manners at the dinner table?
• Why do you think it is important to teach young children to use good manners?
• How can you make meal time a priority in your home?
• Can you share some of the mealtime prayers you use?
Verse to Remember
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.” — Psalm 136:1, NASB
Prayer Time
Find another mom to pray with and share heart to heart, lifting each other up in the Lord.
Pray for:
Our Children
Our Marriages
Our Neighbors
Our Schools
Our Churches
Our Nation and Leaders
Special Requests
The Gift of Forgiveness
“[Love] keeps no record of wrongs.” — 1 Corinthians 13:5, NIV
“Forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us.” — Matthew 6:12, NLT
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other.” — Ephesians 4:32, NIV
Devotional
You have probably heard the statement that “children learn more from what we do than from what we say.” This is so true. I love to watch my grown married children live life. I enjoy observing my daughters and my daughter-in-love as mothers. As I visit their homes, I see them struggle each day to live lives of consistency— showing love, encouragement and discipline to their children.
On one occasion, I was overwhelmed as I watched my daughter-in-love model the concept of forgiveness to her children. As my two granddaughters played chase through the house, the sound of breaking glass came from the dining room. My daughter-in-love rushed over to the girls and spotted her five-year-old and three-year-old daughters as they stood wideeyed looking at the broken tea cup. They both knew that this was a special tea cup from their grandmother. They also knew that they were not supposed to be throwing their dolls up into the air in the dining room.
“Go to your room, girls,” she said with calm intensity. As the girls were leaving the room, the five-year-old looked at her mother with tears in her eyes and asked, “Do you forgive me?” The three-year-old hiding behind her sister asked, “Me too?” My daughter-in-love looked at the girls with tears in her own eyes and said, “Yes, girls, I forgive you. So does God. Why don’t you go talk to Him while you are in your room?”
Motherhood provides amazing opportunities to give our children the priceless gift of forgiveness. Forgiveness is a gift, but it doesn’t always come easy and very often it will cost us something. If we are going to model forgiveness to our children, we have to give up our:
• Anger
• Pride
• Resentment
Forgiveness is a sacrificial act of our will. Because Jesus forgives our sins, He tells us to forgive others. In this way, the seeds of bitterness will not take root in our hearts and we are able to exhibit the love and forgiveness of Christ. We also model this forgiveness to our husbands, family members, and friends.
Our children are listening, and they are watching.
• What conversations do your children overhear when you are talking on the phone? Do they hear words of bitterness or forgiveness?
• How can we model forgiveness within our homes?
• How has the forgiveness of Christ affected your life?
• Have you received the free gift of forgiveness from God?
The Bible tells us that all have sinned, and that no one can live a life good enough to be in the presence of God (Romans 3:23). This is why He sent His on and only Son, Jesus Christ, to earth. He lived a perfect life and then He gave His life as a sacrifice, and because He died, His blood covers all of our sins.
But that isn’t all. He lay in a tomb for three days— and then He rose again! If we receive this free gift from Him, not only will our sins be forgiven, we will one day rise again and live with Him for all of eternity. His very Spirit comes to live within us and we then become part of the family of God. (See “Good News” on page 39.)
Building Blocks for Your Children
Think about some examples when you have needed to explain what forgiveness is to your children. There are many opportunities every day to teach our children about the forgiveness Christ gave each of us. As children become more aware of sin (naughty behavior, disobedience, and wrongdoings to others), they need to also understand forgiveness.
The opportunity to model forgiveness when a sin has been committed enables the child to form a healthy picture of our heavenly Father. You can help your children understand there is forgiveness for their wrongs and it’s free—all they have to do is ask. We must be quick to usher the spirit of forgiveness into the lives of our children.
Verse to Remember
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” — Ephesians 4:32, NIV
Prayer Time
Find another mom to pray with and share heart-to-heart.
Pray for:
Our Children
Our Marriages
Our Neighbors
Our Schools
Our Churches
Our Nation and Leaders
Special Requests
Laughter is Medicine for the Soul
“A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.”
— Proverbs 17:22, NKJV
“A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance, but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.” — Proverbs 15:13, NKJV
“Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward.” — Psalm 127:3, NKJV
“Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one’s youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them. . . .” — Psalm 127:4-5, NKJV
Devotional
Life can get crazy, out of control, and just plain exhausting. It is easy to become so overwhelmed that we lose sight of God’s blessings. God’s Word gives us great perspective and encouragement for each season of our lives.
• Do you ever find yourself exhausted from lack of sleep?
• Do you have a list of to-do’s that never seems to get completed?
You’re not alone! The frustrations of life and the cares of the world can so easily entangle and poison our homes.
What can defuse and absorb such tension?
Laughter!
Laughter is medicine for the soul. It is also a great shock absorber for the bumps in the road of life. A home filled with laughter is very healing and refreshing. Where there is laughter, hope and faith can grow. If we allow the love of Christ to fill our hearts, joy will come easily. The demands of your day may not change, but you will have the ability to lift your family above the circumstances. Yes, a merry heart is like good medicine!
• What are some ways laughter and a merry heart might change the scenario of your crazy schedule?
• How can you bring a merry heart into the atmosphere of your home?
• What kind of example would this set for your children?
• What kind of home would your husband come home to?
Building Blocks for Your Children
Sing “If You’re Happy and You Know It” (Author Unknown):
If you’re happy and you know it, Clap your hands (Clap hands twice)
If you’re happy and you know it, Clap your hands (Clap hands twice)
If you’re happy and you know it, Then your face will surely show it
If you’re happy and you know it, Clap your hands. (Clap hands twice)
Talk to your children about different moods. Ask them about your moods and how they feel when you are happy, sad, mad, frantic, etc. Tell your children that just as they are affected by your mood, so others are affected by their moods. If time allows, play a game of charades with the children. Have them guess your moods by your facial expressions.
Verse to Remember
“A cheerful heart is good medicine.” — Proverbs 17:22, NIV
Prayer Time
Find another mom to pray with and share heart to heart, lifting each other up in the Lord.
Pray for:
Our Children
Our Marriages
Our Neighbors
Our Schools
Our Churches
Our Nation and Leaders
Special Requests
Connecting
How can I use what I’ve learned today to positively impact my relationships with God, my family, and others?
Mom Tip: Cultivating Kindness
Kindness is one of the finest legacies we can share with our children because learning to show grace to others affects so many aspects of their lives, both now and as they grow older.
Try these tips for cultivating kindness in your children:
• Start at home. Treat your spouse and children kindly.
• Let kids see you work through some challenges. Watching parents weather difficult times with the right response makes a powerful impression on young minds.
• Outlaw brother/sister bullying. Don’t allow sibling rivalry to morph into abuse.
• Resist gossiping. Curb badmouthing of coworkers, neighbors, or family members.
• Speak well of others. Accentuate their positive qualities and praise their successes.
• Do good deeds. Encourage and equip your child to perform acts of kindness, such as dropping coins in the offering plate, donating toys, or helping you make and deliver a meal to omeone in need.
• Pray out loud. Pray when you hear sirens, asking God to help the people involved. Pray for friends and family members going through tough times. Pray for homeless people. Pray often and simply, showing kids they can instantly connect with the God who cares about them—and about others.
Plant compassionate seeds early, and you’ll not be disappointed in the harvest.
“As God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” — Colossians 3:12, NIV
Good News
You Can Know God
To know God, it does not matter what has happened in the past. No matter what you’ve done, no matter how you’ve lived your life, God is personally interested in you right now and He cares what happens to you.
God understands your frustration, your loneliness, your heartaches. He wants each of us to come to Him, to know Him personally, so He can enable us to live a life pleasing to Him.
God says, “I have loved you with an everlasting love.”—Jeremiah 31:3b, NASB
Jesus Died for You
Jesus Christ, God’s Son, not only died to pay the penalty for your sin, but He conquered death when He rose from the grave. He is alive today and will come to live in you. He will give you a new beginning as you surrender the control of your life to Him.
Because of our sins, we are separated from a Holy God. When you confess your sins, believe in your heart that Jesus is Lord, and ask Him to enter your life, He will enable you, by His Spirit, to live a life pleasing to God. He will give you a new life that will last forever—eternally.
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”—John 3:16, NASB
A Prayer for a New Beginning
To begin eternal life with Jesus now, pray a prayer like the one suggested here:
Jesus, I do believe You are the Son of God, and that You died on the cross to pay the penalty for my sin. I confess my sin and ask You to make me clean. Come into my life to be my Savior and Lord and make me a member of Your family.
I want to follow You and make You the center of my life.
Thank You for Your gift of eternal life and for Your Holy Spirit, who has now come to live in me. I ask this in Your name. Amen.
Signed:
Date:
If you prayed this prayer, you have just made the most important decision of your life. Stonecroft would like to support you with prayer and offer you a copy of A New Beginning, a short Bible study that will help you as you begin your new life in Christ. To request a copy, e-mail connections@stonecroft.org. If you’d like to talk with someone right now about this prayer, call 1-888-NEED-HIM.
After Pray & Play, What’s Next?
PRAY & PLAY
Stonecroft’s Field and Home Office staff stand ready to advise you and answer any questions you may have about starting another group. We provide:
• Leader’s Guide
• Materials
• Guidance from Field and Home Office staff
• Connection with a vibrant, growing network of Stonecroft women offering prayer and friendship through every stage of life
For details, visit www.stonecroft.org/prayandplay or call us at 800.525.8627.
MOMS ON THE RUN
These one-time, rejuvenating events—held at a church, community center, or other locale— are designed to give busy mothers the break they need and deserve.
• Time for some grown-up conversation and a chance to interact with someone taller than your kneecaps
• Food to enjoy that you don’t have to share or cut into small pieces
• Practical tips for functioning in a mom’s hectic, multi-tasking world
• Interactive discussion with people sharing this same season of life
• Affirmation and encouragement to reassure you of your value as a woman and mother
Child care is provided on-site, the atmosphere is fun and casual, and the cost is affordable.
For more information about Moms on the Run and details on how to plan your own event, visit stonecroft.org or call us at 800.525.8627.
Stonecroft Stuff
Order these and other Stonecroft Resources at our online store at stonecroft.org.
WHY BELIEVE? INVESTIGATE EVIDENCE FOR FAITH (4 lessons)
Does God exist? Is the Bible true? Those seeking answers to these questions and more can explore compelling evidence through this study that shows why faith is a reasonable response in a skeptical world.
$7.00.
Study Book - #104105. Guidebook - #104106.
COLOSSIANS—THE INDWELLING CHRIST (8 lessons)
This study for growing Christians describes our union with Christ and the power that is available to those who trust in Him.
$7.00.
Study Book - #104203. Guidebook - #104204.
PHILIPPIANS—SHARE MY JOY IN CHRIST (10 lessons)
Happiness depends on what happens; joy does not. The book of Philippians shares the secret of joy: a life that is centered on Jesus Christ. His joy frees us from worry, carries us through hardship and suffering, and opens our hearts to love and serve others.
$7.00.
Study Book - #104305. Guidebook - #104306.
CONNECTING WITH GOD—A GUIDE TO PRAYER (8 lessons)
Our Heavenly Father desires to have a close, intimate relationship with us. Prayer is our heart-to-heart communication with Him. This study examines the purpose, power, and elements of prayer, sharing biblical principles for effective prayer. It also presents Prayer Profiles of real people who prayed and how God answered.
$7.00.
Study Book - #104201. Guidebook - #104202.
Discounts available to Stonecroft volunteers. See our online Store at shop.stonecroft.org for details.
Stonecroft Stuff — Bible Studies
WHO IS JESUS?
(6 lessons)
Help others discover who Jesus is, why He came to Earth, and how this affects us as individuals.
$7.00.
Study Book - #104109. Guidebook - #104110.
WHAT IS GOD LIKE?
(6 lessons)
This study presents biblical truths about God and shows how to know Him in a life-transforming way.
$7.00.
Study Book - #104111. Guidebook - #104112.
WHERE IS THE HOLY SPIRIT?
(6 lessons)
Participants learn about the Holy Spirit, our power source for everyday living, who works in perfect harmony with God the Father and Jesus the Son.
$7.00.
Study Book - #104113. Guidebook - #104114.
AWARE Evangelism
This dynamic Stonecroft Biblical Training Tool—”Always Watch and Respond with Encouragement”—equips and engages people in the joys of evangelism.
$8.00. #719538.
10 Smart Things Women Can Do to Build a Better Life (10 lessons)
A smart choice for your next topical study. Learn to “Concede Control,” “Live Generously,” “Grasp Grace,” and more. Journal also available.
$10.00. #731471.
Stonecroft Ministries Tote Bag
15 ½” high x 13 ½” wide x 3” deep. (Pen and water bottle not included.)
$11.50. #723185.
Discounts available to Stonecroft volunteers. See our online Store at stonecroft.org for details.
&Play Pray
devotionals help mothers connect with God, each other, and their communities. This user-friendly book sets the scene for a fun and inspirational gathering, every time you get together.
