We don’t like to think about it, but we know it to be true. There will be a day when our babies must navigate this world without us. It’s difficult to think about because there are so many things we want them to know – so many dangers we want them to avoid.

As moms, we just want so much for them. We want them to be happy. We want them to be productive members of society. We want them to be healthy, wealthy {so they can take care of us later ;)} and wise. Personally, I want my girls to be adventurous and to try new things. I don’t want them to just dream big; I want them to live big.

Ultimately, however, I want them to live all out, no holds barred, for Christ. I will not be satisfied with a mere knowledge of him. My desire for each of my girls is that they would be passionate in their pursuit of him and unashamed of their love for him. That they would settle for nothing less than all of him and all that he has for them – that is what I want.

Paul had a similar desire for his fellow believers when he wrote 2 Peter. Several nights ago, I read 2 Peter 1:15. I wrote “for my girls” in the margin.

And I will make every effort so that after my departure you may be able at any time to recall these things. {emphasis mine}

The things that Paul was referring to were the characteristics believers would need in order to have an effective and fruitful faith. A mere knowledge of Christ was not enough. There were other qualities that needed to be present {and increasing!} in order for faith to be fruitful (2 Peter 1:5-7.)

Virtue. Modesty, purity, moral in thoughts, feelings and actions.

Knowledge. General understanding, but also deeper knowledge.

Self-control. Mastery of one’s desires and passions.

Steadfastness. Constancy, patience and endurance.

Godliness. Reverence, respect.

Brotherly affection. The love which Christians cherish for each other.

Love. Affection, good will, benevolence.

How are we to instill these qualities in our children? Well, Paul tells us that, too.

Therefore I intend to always remind you of these qualities… – 2 Peter 1:12

I love that. Remind them always. When you rise up and when you lie down. When you are walking in the way. That’s what Scripture says. How does that translate into our daily lives? Don’t miss an opportunity to point out these characteristics when you see them in your children or in others. Talk about them on the way to school and at the dinner table. Point out, in Scripture, how Christ exhibited these qualities in various situations.

Remind them always.