Practical Words for Encouraging Your Daughterনমুনা

Day Three “I can see you’re growing stronger inside.” Scripture: Philippians 4:6-7; 1 Peter 5:7 How quickly dark clouds can fill the skies of our daughter’s heart. When she’s young, the smallest things (to you) can fill her heart with foreboding. Whether young or old, the best solution to our troubles, is to take our eyes off of ourselves and focus instead on the God of the Bible—the God who loves us. Remember that a word of reassurance from you is powerful. But don’t stop there. Offer your daughter a word from the Word. Philippians 4:6–7 teaches us what to do when the clouds close in: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (NKJV). And 1 Peter 5:7 says to “[cast] all your care upon Him, for He cares for you” (NKJV). Reversals in life come in all shapes and sizes. And one thing that is guaranteed is that a reversal of some kind is coming to your child. Didn’t get picked for the team? Didn’t get properly recognized for her effort? Didn’t get to go on that trip because of (fill in the blank)? Along with Scripture verses, be sure to share with your daughter stories of those who have overcome challenges. The lives of others can have a powerful, positive effect on her perspective. For example, Nick Vujicic was born without arms and legs. What kind of life could he expect to have with such disadvantages? You could sum it up in one word: amazing! Nick travels the globe as an evangelist and motivational speaker. He has kept his eye on a God who has bigger plans for him than he could have imagined. Has your daughter faced a reversal or a hardship? If she’s not through it yet, love her, comfort her, and give her a vision of the future. Reversals are only temporary. How we react to them changes everything. If she is through the challenge and is triumphing, help her see that she is growing strong on the inside. Lord, so often I want to keep [name] from any pain or disappointment. Yet it is through struggle that we grow closer to You! I pray that both of us would use times of loss to turn to Your comfort, truth, and hope in Your Word. Amen.