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Key Bible Verse: He will carry the lambs in his arms, holding them close to his heart (Isaiah 40:11). Bonus Reading: Isaiah 40:9–11

You should hug, handhold, and hold your children in your lap for no reason at all. But be sure to create special moments of affection each day—like bedtime kisses.

Arriving home from work presents a great opportunity. When our children were smaller, I turned this into "The Bear Hug Routine." I'd get near Deborah, for instance, and say, "Do you want a baby bear hug, a mama bear hug, or a daddy bear hug?"

The answer would be a giggle and "a baby bear." So I'd give Deborah a light squeeze and say "eek, eek, eek"—like a baby bear might sound.

Then Deborah would say in a little voice, "I want a mama bear hug, too, Daddy." So this time I'd wrap my arms around her, squeeze harder, and say "Mmmmmmmmmm."

"Now I want a daddy bear hug!" Deborah would hold very still, arms straight at her sides, eyes shut tight. I'd pick her up, squeeze like crazy, and yell, "Growwwwwwwwwwl!" amidst shrieks of laughter.

Even now, years later, Deborah still laughs when I ask if she wants a bear hug. Giving this affection to your teens may feel awkward—but never back off. They still need your loving touch.

—Dennis Rainey in Growing a Spiritually Strong Family

My Response: Roughhousing is one way to make physical contact. A way that works for me is …

Thought to Apply: Children of all ages need meaningful touch, particularly from a father. —Robert Salt (writer)

Adapted from Growing a Spiritually Strong Family (Multnomah, 2002) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Heavenly Father, help me to model Your tender love to my own children.

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