Happiness

Happiness is an elusive goal for most people. I guess one can find it if he can find his purpose in life. It is not amassing wealth nor being comfortable nor luxurious. It is doing what you enjoy most and doing what you are purposed to do.

Like our household items, each is brought into the house for a purpose. For example an electric fan, you can use it as a display item to make your house more beautiful but it is never meant to function like that. The electric fan would be "happier" if you use it the way it is meant to be. Its manual would say it is an excellent fan.

Each denizen (star, human or planet) in the universe is created for a purpose. According to The Manual (The Bible), each is created to glorify God and enjoy His provision and goodness. With that in mind, happiness is not difficult find for it is nestled in seeking God's perfect plans. Read your Manual and know your purpose in life.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." - Jer 29:11 (NIV)

Parents as Teachers

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” -Proverbs 22:6,

My wife and I enjoy teaching our sons. Even this summer vacation, we continue to teach them new things, both practical and academic lessons.

Last weekend, I taught my 9-year son Paul how to ride a bike. Now he can do it on his own. My wife is a bit nervous whenever Paul navigates our street. I gave him some exposure on how to ride a bike on a main road and gave him pointers on the safety and respect for pedestrians and other vehicles.

We also teach them how to do household chores. That should give them idea on family responsibility.

Everyday we also teach them advanced lessons in Math. I am teaching our 13-year old son Nathan matrix operations and proving in geometry. In return he would explain to me the concepts on Biology that he learned during the day. My wife teaches Paul English and Grade 5 Math during the day. Every night I would teach Paul Algebra and problem solving techniques. In return Paul would tell me his discoveries while playing computer games during the day.

We also urge them to read the Bible. This year our target is finish reading the whole Bible from Genesis to Revelation. We started with Genesis in January. Nathan is way ahead having finished the Book of Job last week. I am catching up having finished the Book of Esther last night. My wife is lagging behind and is still in I Kings (I think). Paul reads in his own pacing.

The Bible is the best source of life principles, godly attitudes and truths about God and life. It is more important than Math, Science and English. We teach our kids the Bible because we want them to make God their first priority.

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." Proverbs 9:10.