This program is not a "rewrite" of existing relationship programs with scriptures added on, but a fresh approach from Biblical Hebrew and Greek giving hope and practical tools to change hurtful patterns and restore wounded relationships.
"We became aware of A Child’s Heart when the founder, Jackie Cotton, attended the pilot of our adult seminar, based on the healing principles of Isaiah 61. In response to her request, we granted A Child’s Heart permission to adapt our adult curriculum, 'Building Healthy Relationships in an Unhealthy World,' for children [and teens and families]. This adapted curriculum is called 'A Child's Heart.' "
~ Valerie Acuff, founder of Skills for Living ~ www.skills.org
▪ This is not psychotherapy.
▪ This is not just reading or memorizing Bible stories.
▪ This is discovering more about who God really is and what His heart is toward us.
▪ This is learning how to use God’s instructions for living healthy lives.
TRUST, BONDING, CLOSENESS with GOD
God loves our family and will bless us for choosing His way.
(God wants to fill all the needs of my heart with His love.)
(God loves me and has a family plan to fill the longings of my heart.)
(God loves me and wants me to live in His love toward others.)
(God loves me and wants to show me the truth about my inner thoughts and feelings.)
(God loves me and will help me to choose reactions to anger that will strengthen my relationships.)
(God loves me and wants me to understand that my worth comes from Him, not from things that give me guilt and shame.)
(God loves me and will help me to obey the Safe People in charge of me.)
(God's trail to real freedom is forgiving others.)
(God loves me when my heart is breaking; He promises joy and hope.)
(God loves me and wants me to learn how to build understanding with others.)
(God loves me and wants me to learn how to solve problems that I have with another person.)
(God loves me and wants me to learn how to live in His love.)
Bible study lessons are taught by A Child’s Heart Guardians—leaders who keep this Bible study for just these children:
Children from broken homes are cocooned in their own Bible study support groups that mentor, honor, and provide them with a safe place once a week. They emerge from the cocoon, more secure in God’s love, to return to the whole church and society.
These group meetings can include snacks or a meal, and/or a large-group potluck at the end of each 6-8 week session.
Safe People will be a theme interwoven throughout the lessons—what Safe People are, how to choose Safe People, and how to call on Safe People when needed.
Nehemiah Community: Invite other churches in your area to start one of these support groups. Coordinate the content of the lessons and meet after the end of each 6-8 week session to share new understandings and growth. A potluck is an option for this meeting.
