Andrew Anyanwu

The month of February to many is known as the month of love , this is the month when you start to notice more hearts in shops , the colour red , boxes of chocolates , red roses , little flying babies holding bows and arrows , and valentine ’ s cards .

It is all about revealing or appreciating relationships you have or would like to have . As Christians we can relate to this month on a far deeper level as our faith in God , through the amazing work Jesus had done for us , invites us to have relationship with him .

What can be a struggle sometimes for children and even parents is actively participating in this relationship every day , amongst all the other things that our days may consist of : work , school , cooking , and homework , the list can sometimes seem endless .

Parent and Child devotional – To be done together As you go through the following verses , relate what the verses mean to you the parent and then ask your child age-specific similar questions and try to then apply it to your lives .

Kids Net February dates every Sunday

Jesus initiates our friendship with him : we cannot earn his affection . “ You did not choose me , but I chose you and appointed you ” ( John 15:16 ).

We don ’ t have to be perfect to be friends with Jesus : in fact , he ’ s glad to be friends with sinners ( which is what we all are ). “ Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus . But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered , ‘ This man welcomes sinners and eats with them ’” ( Luke 15:1-2 )

Friendship with Jesus brings us joy : “ As the Father has loved me , so have I loved you . Now remain in my love . If you keep my commands , you will remain in my love , just as I have kept my Father ’ s commands and remain in his love . I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete ” ( John 15:9-11 ).

Jesus asks us to respond to his love and friendship by loving others : “ A new command I give you : Love one another . As I have loved you , so you must love one another . By this everyone will know that you are my disciples , if you love one another .” ( John 13:34-35 ). Also read with your child John 15:12-15

Possible further questions

• Describe your closest human friendship . What characteristics make it strong ?

• What stands in the way of deepening your friendship with Jesus ? Explain .

• Jesus is omniscient — he knows everything . Jesus also loves you unconditionally . How do these two truths impact your friendship with him ?

• The friendship we enjoy with Jesus is meant to be shared by loving others . What specific ways will you reach out to others in friendship this week ?

• How should relationship with Jesus look like in your life ? - Colossians 3:12-13

Application assistance 1 Read the Bible 2 Pray 3 Spend quiet time with God 4 Attend cell regularly ( parents and children ) 5 Share Your Faith ( relationship )

As you rely on the Holy Spirit for power , read the Bible , pray , spend time with other Christians , and tell people about Jesus , God will produce His character in you . And there ’ s no question : you will experience spiritual growth .

Our relationship with God , will affect all our other relationships . So if you want to have a better relationship with anyone , you will have to get closer to God . Let Jesus be your valentines , every day . God bless .

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