Two Little Characters

USGN article
by Barbi Franklin
July 1999

Terry & I have started a system where each year Tyler & Travis are focusing on a new character trait. The goal is to help develop Godliness in these two little characters lives as well as giving them a firm foundation for understanding how to mature into adulthood.

The assignments are, first, to memorize verses & discuss them with mom throughout the year. Then, before their birthday rolls around again, they write a paper describing what they've learned. On their birthday, we reward them with a very special gift that they can keep for the rest of their lives (Tyler got a steel sword for display on his wall last year).

The character trait study for Tyler's 1st year was "humility". I got permission from him to include the following excerpts from his 6 page "Humility Paper" that I thought you might like to read. Tyler wrote:

"Experiences: Humility brings peace between Travis and me...

A few days ago, we were at a Chinese restaurant and they had just seated us when Dad said, "Oh, I forgot my glasses!" Then he asked if Travis or I could go get his reading glasses out of the van. Now, since I know what being disciplined feels like, I've been trying harder to prove that I can be a humble servant. I'm trying to make a track record of giving in and being the 'Jesus Boy'. So I quickly said, 'I'll do it!'

Mom immediately responded with gratitude and affirmation to my willingness to help. That made me happy..."

And he also wrote:

"Things I understand now: A humble spirit makes us strong.

A good example of a humble person in the Bible would probably be Moses. He kept a humble spirit even while keeping authority! He could tell Pharaoh what God wanted him to say, and still stay humble! I think that I would like to be like him. Just because you're humble doesn't mean you can't be strong and bold in the Spirit. Being humble actually reveals strong character!"

Hopefully when these boys are out on their own, they'll be ready to make their own decisions wisely with the counsel of the Word and through the help of the greatest counselor of all...the Holy Spirit.

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©1999 Terry & Barbi Franklin.