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ESA's and Other Government-Funded Homeschooling Programs
Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate Share Forward ESA's and Other Government-Funded Homeschooling Programs   On January 29, President Trump signed the "Expanding Educational Freedom and Opportunity for Families" Executive Order. This order instructs that the "Secretary of Education shall issue guidance regarding how States can use Federal formula funds to support K-12 educational choice initiatives." For over 40 years MICHN has held the position that state funds have no place in private education options. We are equally opposed to federal funds targeted to families for private education. Government funding of private education options does not increase school choice. Rather, it diminishes choice because oversight and regulation always follow government funding. When all choices are funded and regulated by the government, there are no private choices. Government funding does not empower parents nor increase freedom. Rather, it entices parents into dependence on the government, and reduces freedom. As the Secretary of Education confirmation unfolds, and more details emerge about the ramifications of the Executive Order, we will keep you updated on the potential impact on homeschooling in Michigan   Read MiCHN's VP's Thoughts HERE! HSLDA explains why they (along with MiCHN) oppose tax-funded ESA's and other government-funded homeschooling programs:   MiCHN’s role is working to ensure that all families who choose to home educate in Michigan have the encouragement, support, and resources they need to do so with excellence, free from government interference. As you look for opportunities to disciple your children, we look for opportunities to come along side you with resources, encouragement, legislative updates, and more. We couldn’t do that without the financial support of so many generous people throughout the decades. Fight With Us HERE! These are quite uncertain times. Right now, MICHN would advise you to make sure your account is up to date and accurate with Homeschool Legal Defense Association. Be sure to visit their website, and if you have not done so already, BECOME A MEMBER today.   Coming Events         Copyright © 2022 MICHN, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 4407 W St. Joseph Hwy Lansing, MI 48917
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A Letter From a Homeschool Mom
Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate Share Forward     Dear Homeschool Mom, As the holiday season fades and a new year stretches before us, I want to take a moment to encourage your heart. The shift back into the rhythms of homeschooling can feel overwhelming, especially amidst the whirlwind of sports practices, sickness, special needs, teens, babies, and everything else life brings. But let me remind you of something precious: You are doing the work that the Lord has called you to do. The time you invest in your children, the lessons you teach, the love you pour out—it all matters deeply. Deuteronomy 6:5-9 calls us to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, and strength, and to impress His commandments on our children. It is in the ordinary moments of sitting at home, walking along the road, lying down, and getting up that this calling unfolds. As you dive back into your routines, remember that it doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful. It’s okay to take a snow day with friends and build memories. It’s okay to cut back on work if it’s too much. It’s okay to stop a book that’s not working for your family and try something new (or not). These decisions don’t mean you’ve failed; they mean you’re flexible, wise, and in tune with what your family needs. The days may feel long, but the years are fleeting. These moments—even the chaotic, messy, and tiring ones—are gifts. Your teens and little ones are watching your faithfulness, soaking up your quantity of time, and love. Even in the midst of challenges, you are shaping hearts, planting seeds, and building a legacy that will last far beyond these short years. When it feels hard, remember why you started. Recall the vision God placed in your heart for this journey. Lean into His strength on the days when you feel weak. Celebrate the small victories and trust that God’s grace will cover the gaps. So, dear moms, as you move forward into this new year, take a deep breath and rest in God’s promise to guide and sustain you. You are not alone. You are part of a community of women who understand the joys and struggles of this unique calling. Most importantly, you have a Father who sees every effort, every tear, and hears every prayer. Let’s walk this path together, cheering one another on and keeping our eyes fixed on the One who called us to it. The work you are doing is precious, and the impact will echo through generations.   With love and encouragement, The Moms of Your MiCHN Team     Don't Miss this Encouraging Opportunity!     And Grab the T-Shirt!!!     Register HERE!   MiCHN’s role is working to ensure that all families who choose to home educate in Michigan have the encouragement, support, and resources they need to do so with excellence, free from government interference. As you look for opportunities to disciple your children, we look for opportunities to come along side you with resources, encouragement, legislative updates, and more. We couldn’t do that without the financial support of so many generous people throughout the decades. Fight With Us HERE! These are quite uncertain times. Right now, MICHN would advise you to make sure your account is up to date and accurate with Homeschool Legal Defense Association. Be sure to visit their website, and if you have not done so already, BECOME A MEMBER today.   Coming Events       Copyright © 2022 MICHN, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 4407 W St. Joseph Hwy Lansing, MI 48917
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✨ Grab a Friend and Recharge: Hope & Encouragement for Homeschool Moms!
View this email in your browser Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate Share Forward 🌟 Happy New Year from MiCHN! 🌟 Winter can be a tough time for moms, and we get it—you could really use some extra encouragement right now. That’s why MiCHN is thrilled to host a special overnight event just for homeschooling moms right here in Lansing, MI! Save the Date for Next Month!  February 21st & 22nd, join us for an inspiring time with September McCarthy, our featured speaker, who will be sharing "Hope for Your Homeschool." Make it a Weekend to Remember! Bring a friend and register together to enjoy a $15 discount on your combined registration with a shared Double Room—no code needed! Simply select the special discounted ticket option when you register. (Discount ends 1/4)  Spaces are limited, so don’t wait! Reserve your spot today on our website and start the new year with a boost of encouragement and connection. We can’t wait to see you there!    Discount Ends1/4!     Register HERE!   MiCHN’s role is working to ensure that all families who choose to home educate in Michigan have the encouragement, support, and resources they need to do so with excellence, free from government interference. As you look for opportunities to disciple your children, we look for opportunities to come along side you with resources, encouragement, legislative updates, and more. We couldn’t do that without the financial support of so many generous people throughout the decades. Fight With Us HERE! These are quite uncertain times. Right now, MICHN would advise you to make sure your account is up to date and accurate with Homeschool Legal Defense Association. Be sure to visit their website, and if you have not done so already, BECOME A MEMBER today.   Coming Events       Copyright © 2022 MICHN, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 4407 W St. Joseph Hwy Lansing, MI 48917
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Merry Christmas 2024
Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate Share Forward Merry Christmas from MiCHN! This Christmas season, we pray that the love and peace of our Savior fills your hearts and homes, now and throughout the coming year. Reflecting on 2024 This past year has been a testament to God's grace and mercy! As we look back, we are in awe of His incredible hand of protection over the past four decades. Looking ahead, we remain prayerful and committed to His continued provision as we work to protect our homeschool freedoms here in Michigan. Please continue to join us in praying for our elected officials, building bridges with them, and faithfully discipling the next generation. Thank You! A heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us for our 1st Annual Fundraising Event, celebrating 40 years of INCH/MiCHN’s ministry. Your support makes our work possible, and we are so grateful! Save These Dates for 2025 Home-Sweet-Homeschool Mom's Retreat: February 21–22 INCH 2025: May 15–17 Day at the Dome: October 1 If you’d like to make a year-end donation, there’s still time! Click HERE to give and support our ongoing mission. Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year, Your MiCHN Team     Don't Miss Our Upcoming Discount Starting 1/1!       MiCHN’s role is working to ensure that all families who choose to home educate in Michigan have the encouragement, support, and resources they need to do so with excellence, free from government interference. As you look for opportunities to disciple your children, we look for opportunities to come along side you with resources, encouragement, legislative updates, and more. We couldn’t do that without the financial support of so many generous people throughout the decades. Fight With Us HERE! These are quite uncertain times. Right now, MICHN would advise you to make sure your account is up to date and accurate with Homeschool Legal Defense Association. Be sure to visit their website, and if you have not done so already, BECOME A MEMBER today.   Coming Events       Copyright © 2022 MICHN, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 4407 W St. Joseph Hwy Lansing, MI 48917
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1 Week From Today We are Celebrating!🥳❄️
Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate Share Forward   Our 40-year journey: The history and future of homeschooling in Michigan South Church 5250 Cornerstone Dr. Lansing, MI December 12, 2024 7-9pm An event to celebrate 40 years of homeschool freedom and to tell the story of how those freedoms were won in Michigan. The evening will include several exciting features: A panel: will discuss the early days of the homeschooling movement and the fight involved with legalizing home education in our state will be moderated by Israel Wayne (a homeschooled graduate who serves as VP of MiCHN). Panel to include: -Mark and Chris DeJonge (DeJonge vs. Michigan: a landmark case for homeschool freedom) -David Kallman (the attorney who won the DeJonge case) -Steve Kallman (attorney fighting to maintain homeschool freedom in MI) -Dennis and Roxanne Smith (the founders of INCH -- now MiCHN) -James Muffett (founder of Citizens for Traditional Values and Student Statesmanship Institute) A video: from one of our own state representatives, the honorable Jamie Greene. A special word: from Samuel Johnson (our HSLDA attorney for Michigan) on the history and support HSLDA provides to families across our great state. Our keynote speaker: is Todd Wilson - The Familyman, speaking on “Hope for the Future.” A silent auction: is available now through December 12th at 8pm. Winners of the auctioned items will be announced at the end of the event. Special music: starting at 6:30pm provided by talented homeschool musicians, Living Water Strings Ensemble. Festive photo booth: starting at 6:30pm. Printed pictures available for you to take home. Even though childcare is not available, children are welcome to come. They are the essence of why we are here! Please come enjoy celebrating with us the 40-year history of homeschooling in Michigan. Want to come but the funds are tight? We would love to offer you the opportunity to come anyway!   Here are a couple options to help you come: Bring a couple of friends with you and enjoy a buy 3 tickets, get 1 ticket free discount. Only looking for a single ticket, receive $10 off your INCH 2025 registration. Register for the event here: Fundraising Celebration, Our 40-year Journey: The History & Future of MI Homeschooling - December 12, 2024 DeJonge story interview HERE Smith story interview HERE   We would love to have you join us! If you can’t join us, you can still participate in the silent auction. Also, please prayerfully consider donating to ensure we are able to continue this important work for years to come! Donate HERE. We also want to recognize our sponsors for this event. We couldn’t do all this without their support! Tim Hortons Jillian Stapleton Art, DBA PIONEERS Home Education Support Service Blessings, The team at MiCHN Michigan Christian Homeschool Network (Home of the INCH Conference)   Get Your Ticket HERE     Click the image to get your ticket today!   MiCHN’s role is working to ensure that all families who choose to home educate in Michigan have the encouragement, support, and resources they need to do so with excellence, free from government interference. As you look for opportunities to disciple your children, we look for opportunities to come along side you with resources, encouragement, legislative updates, and more. We couldn’t do that without the financial support of so many generous people throughout the decades. Fight With Us HERE! These are quite uncertain times. Right now, MICHN would advise you to make sure your account is up to date and accurate with Homeschool Legal Defense Association. Be sure to visit their website, and if you have not done so already, BECOME A MEMBER today.   Coming Events       Copyright © 2022 MICHN, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 4407 W St. Joseph Hwy Lansing, MI 48917
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From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!
Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate Share Forward To Our MiCHN Family,  As we gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, we are reminded of the many blessings we cherish—and you are among the greatest. Your steadfast support, prayers, and courage in standing up for the freedoms we hold dear have been a source of strength and encouragement to us all. Together, let's celebrate God's goodness to us as a nation and to our families. And let us continually give thanks for His kindness and protection of homeschooling in Michigan.  From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!     #GivingTuesday is a day to give back!   Following Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday—we celebrate #GivingTuesday, a day that empowers people like you and me to support causes we believe in. The past few years have rocked the education community. Threats to our homeschool freedom have increased even as we struggle to face the explosive needs of the growing homeschool community.  Because of generous donations from families like yours, many families seeking help this year were equipped and encouraged. Together, we can make a powerful impact on the future of homeschooling.  Will you partner with us to take a stand for homeschool freedom? Yes, Here's my #GivingTuesday gift.   With your support—and the Lord's help—we can continue to monitor school board meetings, build bridges with those the Lord has placed in our government, monitor legislation, and inspire and equip parents on their homeschool journey. Your gift will make a difference.  GIVE HERE   As the end of the year approaches here are some great ways YOU can support MiCHN as we support you! 1.       PRAY- that we will be able to continue the work needed to maintain the homeschool freedom in Michigan   2.       COME CELEBRATE- our 40th anniversary event with us on Thursday, December 12th 7:00-9:00pm at South Church in Lansing   3.       MAKE A FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION- to help support homeschooling families in our state on their journey with home education, unencumbered by government regulation.  MiCHN is a 501(c) tax deductible organization if you are looking for a year-end giving option    4.       MAKE A SHORT, SIMPLE VIDEO- share something from your homeschool journey that you’re thankful for; then attach it to an email and send it to MiCHN at [email protected] 5.       JOIN AN EVENT- we can stay connected and support each other when we are together. You can also, bring a friend, volunteer, and/or share our events on Facebook.  It is a pleasure to serve you and your family.  Get a Ticket to Celebrate HERE   MiCHN’s role is working to ensure that all families who choose to home educate in Michigan have the encouragement, support, and resources they need to do so with excellence, free from government interference. As you look for opportunities to disciple your children, we look for opportunities to come along side you with resources, encouragement, legislative updates, and more. We couldn’t do that without the financial support of so many generous people throughout the decades. Fight With Us HERE! These are quite uncertain times. Right now, MICHN would advise you to make sure your account is up to date and accurate with Homeschool Legal Defense Association. Be sure to visit their website, and if you have not done so already, BECOME A MEMBER today.   Coming Events   Copyright © 2022 MICHN, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 4407 W St. Joseph Hwy Lansing, MI 48917
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🌟 Come Join the Celebration!- 40th Year celebration and fundraising event
View this email in your browser Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate Share Forward Would you consider supporting the continuation of this ministry? It is with much joy and gratitude that we celebrate the amazing homeschool freedom we have here in Michigan. This freedom hasn’t come without costs, however.  Many Michigan families have gone before us, pioneering the way. We want to honor them as celebrate this 40-year milestone in our history. 1.       PRAY- that we will be able to continue the work needed to maintain the homeschool freedom in Michigan   2.       COME CELEBRATE- our 40th anniversary event with us on Thursday, December 12th 7:00-9:00pm at South Church in Lansing   3.       MAKE A FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION- to help support homeschooling families in our state on their journey with home education, unencumbered by government regulation.  MiCHN is a 501(c) tax deductible organization if you are looking for a year-end giving option    4.       MAKE A SHORT, SIMPLE VIDEO- share something from your homeschool journey that you’re thankful for; then attach it to an email and send it to MiCHN at [email protected] 5.       JOIN AN EVENT- we can stay connected and support each other when we are together. You can also, bring a friend, volunteer, and/or share our events on Facebook.  It is a pleasure to serve you and your family.  Get a Ticket to Celebrate HERE   MiCHN’s role is working to ensure that all families who choose to home educate in Michigan have the encouragement, support, and resources they need to do so with excellence, free from government interference. As you look for opportunities to disciple your children, we look for opportunities to come along side you with resources, encouragement, legislative updates, and more. We couldn’t do that without the financial support of so many generous people throughout the decades. Fight With Us HERE! These are quite uncertain times. Right now, MICHN would advise you to make sure your account is up to date and accurate with Homeschool Legal Defense Association. Be sure to visit their website, and if you have not done so already, BECOME A MEMBER today.   Coming Events
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How to Pray for Michigan
God gave us this promise in 2 Chronicles 7:14, “If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” As we humbly and diligently seek Him, our own hearts will be changed… and then we’ll see transformation in our families, our communities, our state, and our nation. 1.) Pray for FAMILIES “If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand.” Mark 3:25 • Pray for a return to traditional, Biblical family values, esteeming the things which God sees as important - especially the values of faith, life, truth, and freedom. (Job 22:21-22) • Pray for renewed passion and obedience to the Biblical view of marriage. (Gen 1:27) • Pray for a return to the Biblical mandate for parents to train their own children up in the fear of the Lord, instead of leaving the responsibility to others. (Prov 22:6) • Pray for the re-establishment of strong, healthy relationships between parents and children, between siblings, and between extended families, and multiple generations. (Mal 4:5-6) • Pray for unity and love in individual families, causing them to reach out to serve and offer hospitality; (Rom 12:9-13); Pray families will have eyes to see those who need help and encouragement.   2.) Pray for FREEDOM “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” 2 Corinthians 3:17 • Pray that people will understand that true freedom is found in Christ alone; that freedom is walking unchained from the stain and pain of our sin, living fully forgiven and in complete liberty to live as our Creator designed us. • There are many struggles, injustices, and battles that people are facing today as our freedoms are increasingly being eroded. Thank God for the privilege of growing up where for so long we have enjoyed great liberty and many blessings. • Pray that God would protect our freedoms, that we would each do our part to stand up for our freedoms, and for all those in our nation and around the world who are not so free -- especially for those who are oppressed, persecuted, in bondage, or slavery. • Pray that we would hold the things of this world lightly, knowing that our true citizenship and freedom is in heaven; that we would look to God, not the government or any other systems of this fallen world for our hope. 3.) Pray for THE CHURCH “His intent was that now, through the Church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms.” Ephesians 3:10 • Pray there would be revival in the Church as individual hearts are changed and renewed with great zeal and commitment to the mission and purpose of Jesus Christ (Matt 22:37) - resulting in an impact on our culture, including our government. • Pray for Unity within and between churches that reveals God’s love to the world. (Jn 17:23) • Pray for a hunger for God’s Word- to read it, study it, memorize it, live it, & obey it; that the Church clearly teaches its absolutes. (Ps 1:1-3) • Pray for Integrity - that God’s people look and act differently from the world. (1 Pet 2:11, 1 Cor. 13:6) • Pray a holy fear of the Lord is realized in the hearts of God’s people (Prov 9:10) and the fear of man would be eradicated from the Church, that we would operate according to God’s standards only. (Isaiah 43:1) 4.) Pray for GOVERNMENT Pray for your leaders, as well as the judges in our courts. Ask God to grant them wisdom to act with integrity. (1 Kings 3:28, 1 Timothy 2:1-2, Exodus 18:21, Proverbs 11:3, Romans 13:1-2) • Pray for the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the government to value one another, respect one another, and work together for the good of our nation, our state, and our communities. • FEDERAL GOVERNMENT: Pray for the President, VP, Cabinet Members, Congress Members, Supreme Court Justices. • STATE GOVERNMENT: Pray for the Governor, Executive Cabinet, Legislators, Michigan Supreme Court Justices and other Judges, Department Heads, State School Board and Superintendent. • LOCAL GOVERNMENT: Pray for your Mayor, City Council, Judges, County & Township Officials, School Board Members. 5.) Pray for MILITARY, LAW ENFORCEMENT, FIRST RESPONDERS “He appointed military officers over the people and assembled them…and encouraged them with these words: ‘Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him. With him only is the arm of flesh, but with us is the Lord our God to help us & to fight our battles…” 2 Chron. 32:6-8 • Pray for soldiers and officers in all branches of the armed forces, along with our law enforcement officers: police, sheriffs, fire-fighters, Immigration and border patrol, EMTs and paramedics, etc. • Pray for divine protection from the enemy. (Rom 5:1-5) • Pray for courage and dependence on God. (Ps 91) • Pray for perseverance to endure hardship. (Is. 43:2, Deut. 31:6) • Pray for wise leaders who inspire respect from those under their command. (Rom 13:1) • Pray for confidence and vision to persist in the face of negative publicity. (Ps 18:31-39) • Pray for chaplains who are divinely appointed to deliver hope and spiritual strength to those who are struggling. (Prov 4:11) • Pray for courage to share the truth of God’s Word with those they come into contact with. (1 Cor. 15:58) 6.) Pray for MEDIA: ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT “…Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things.” Philippians 4:8 • Pray that Christians in the arts and media will be bright lights shining in the darkness, finding favor and being filled with creative ideas that bring kingdom principles and life-giving messages of truth. (Prov 2:1-15) • Pray that decision makers within media would realize the need for truth-filled, family-friendly projects. (Prov 8:10-11) • Pray that journalists and reporters would be fair, unbiased, honest and factual in their reporting, and that believers would be discerning of the news, seeking truth, not swayed by emotions. • Pray that journalists, social media influencers, artists, and celebrities will be provided with repeated opportunities to hear and receive salvation. (Prov 8:35) • Pray for doors to open for those who are called to bring the truth of God’s Word via these avenues. (Deut 1:30) 7.) Pray for EDUCATION “If you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understand.” Proverbs 2:3-6 • Pray that parents catch a vision for discipleship, embracing their Godgiven role and responsibility to pass on their faith and teach their own children the ways of God. (Deut 6:7, Eph 6:4) • Pray for a return to the teaching of truth and Judeo-Christian ethics, and all subjects from a Biblical worldview. (Ps 1:1-2) • Pray for a safe, undistracted atmosphere conducive to learning. • Pray for excellence in educators & students alike. (Ex 18:20-21) • Pray for opportunities for every student to achieve their full potential. (Phil 1:9) 8.)Pray for a Culture that Values LIFE “I call heaven and earth as my witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live; that you may love the Lord your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days…” Deuteronomy 30:19-20 • Pray against a culture of death that seeks to kill and destroy those who aren’t seen as valuable, wanted, or who have been deemed a burden. • Pray for women facing unwanted pregnancies that they would choose life for their babies, experience help and healing, and that their eyes would be opened to see the precious gift God has given them! May the veil of deception be removed, and their hearts be softened to hear and receive the Truth. • Pray for God to thwart the efforts of abortion workers and industries that seek to take advantage of those in vulnerable positions for their own personal gain. 9.) Pray for TRUTH “The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart; whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbor, and casts no slur on others…” Psalm 15:2-3 • At the heart of every division is a lie- about who we are, who God is and how we ought to live according to His truth. Pray truth might overcome every falsehood in America today, from distortions in the media to the lies we accept in our daily lives. Pray that the Church sees through and combats these lies and stands strong for truth. • Ask God for reconciliation where there is conflict and brokenness. Pray for people to return to the Truth of the Bible and a restoration of unity and love in the mighty name and power of Jesus. • Pray against “identity politics” that seek to divide our nation even further. The Biblical reply doesn’t deny the reality nor the importance of identities to the human story. It does, however, begin with what unites all humanity—the Imago Dei, we are all created in the image of God. A biblical worldview starts in sameness, not differences. Only the gospel can unite, secure peace, and establish Truth. 10.)Pray for our ECONOMY: BUSINESSES AND TECHNOLOGY “I have filled him with the Spirit of God, giving him great wisdom, ability, and expertise in all kinds of crafts. He is a master craftsman, expert in working…” Exodus 31:3-4 • Pray for integrity among Christians in the marketplace – business owners and employees alike, so that they win the right to be heard. (1 Chron. 29:17) • Pray for impartation of ideas and resources to open principled godly businesses, especially in areas that need an economic boost. (Ps 132:15) • Pray that Christian workers will display Christ-like humility and service to their co-workers, customers, and clients. (Phil 2:3) • Pray for protection and favor over businesses being run according to scriptural principles- that they may be creators of economic blessing and givers to their communities. (Ps 34:7-9) 11.) Pray for our LEADERS in all Areas (in Families, the Church, Government, Business, Education, Media, Military, etc.) “I urge then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people- for kings and all those in authority...” 1 Timothy 2:1-2 • For SALVATION: Pray for the salvation of leaders who have not yet put their faith in Christ, this should be a top priority. Leaders, like all people, need the forgiveness of sins and new life that comes through putting one’s faith in Jesus. (Acts 4:10-12, Jn 14:6, Rom 10:9) • For DIVINE WISDOM: Those in positions of authority and influence are regularly called upon to make very difficult decisions that affect many people. Divine wisdom is available for those who ask God for it (James 1:5). Good decisions will seldom be made without God’s wisdom & direction. (Ps. 111:10, Prov 2). • For DISCERNMENT: Sometimes there is a fine line between a right or a wrong decision. Every day leaders are called upon to decide on issues that may or may not be good for the people they lead and represent. They clearly need the Lord’s guidance and discernment. (I Kings 3:9) • For COURAGE: It is only with courage that leaders can stand up for what’s right and true, and trust that God is the protector and defender of all right decisions, and that He will honor them for their bravery. (2 Sam 10:12). • For PERSEVERANCE: Leaders need prayer to withstand the pressures, tests, and trials that will surely come their way. Even when it seems their careers or businesses may be at stake, they must persevere, not give up, and continue doing what is right. (James 1:2, 2 Tim 4:7) • For HUMILITY: Leaders often have great power, deal with immense sums of money, and can be put up on pedestals or receive special treatment. This can quickly go to their heads and lead to arrogance and pride. Pray that God keeps them on their knees, dependent upon Him, heading His instruction so they may be led by Him and rightly lead others. (1 Pet 5:5, Is 66:2) • For TEACHABILITY: When leaders are wise and resist the temptation of pride, a teachable spirit will be evident. We must all acknowledge that there is always more to learn, and that God has much still to teach us. (Prov 9:9, Eccl 4:13) • For MORAL INTEGRITY: Leaders often face incredibly strong temptations and may be away from their families for long periods with little or no accountability. Pray for them to have strength to resist these temptations that can destroy not only their lives and families, but severely mar their Christian testimony. (Ps 25:21, Is 33:15-16) • For SELF-CONTROL: Leaders regularly face situations and pressures that can cause them to struggle to control their attitudes, actions, and words. They cannot control their circumstances, but they can control their responses, this is essential for their success. (Prov 25:28, 2 Tim 1:7)
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MiCHN Moment-How to Have an Interactive and Educational Election Experience With Your Kids-Nov '24
Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate “Come, let’s return to the Lord. For he has torn us, and he will heal us; he has wounded us, and he will bind up our wounds. He will revive us after two days, and on the third day he will raise us up so we can live in his presence. Let’s strive to know the Lord. His appearance is as sure as the dawn. He will come to us like the rain, like the spring showers that water the land….For I desire faithful love and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.”  Hosea 6:1-3, 6 CSB Before voting, the most important work we can do is to pray. Pray for our nation and pray for our leaders as God has commanded. Today, I offer you a prayer as we prepare to vote for the next president of the United States of America.   Heavenly Father, we come before You humbled and in need of Your mercy, for You alone are our healer and restorer. As we approach the upcoming election, we ask that You guide our nation back to You. Your word reminds us that though we have been torn, You will heal us; though we have been wounded, You will bind our wounds. Just as Jesus was raised on the third day, You raise us up to live in Your presence and to seek Your face with all our hearts.   Lord, awaken our hearts as a nation to Your faithful love, not mere ceremony or empty words. You desire that we know You deeply, to love and serve You with all that we are. We pray for leaders who will govern with wisdom, compassion, and integrity, who will strive to know You and lead with hearts transformed by Your Spirit.   May we, as a people, desire You above all else, dedicating ourselves to live out Your love in the world. Guide us to take action that brings others into Your love and truth, that we might share the hope we have in You. Let this election be a step toward unity, peace, and justice, and may we honor You in all that we do.   In Jesus’ mighty name, who gave Himself so we might have life eternal with You, we pray. Amen. Blessings, Mike Winter President, MiCHN   How to Have an Interactive and Educational Election Experience With Your Kids Elections are rich with lessons that go beyond politics—they introduce history, critical thinking, and the importance of praying for our leadership.   1. Start with the Basics: Going over Election Terms Start with a simple explanation of what an election is and why it matters. Break down complex terms and talk about the basics, such as voting, candidates, and the idea of leadership. Election Voting Candidates Campaign Policies Parties 2. Bring History into the Mix Elections provide a perfect opportunity to dive into American history. Share the story of how voting rights have evolved, including important milestones. Create a Timeline Talk About Past Presidents: Read famous quotes/ speeches Discuss the Freedoms We’ve Fought For More Terms: Inauguration Day  3. Show How Voting Works Kids are naturally curious about the practical side of things. Show them how voting works, and if possible, bring them along to vote. Practice Voting: Create a mock election at home with sample ballots. This can be as simple as choosing between dinner options or a favorite family vacation. Take Your Kids to Your Polling Place Discuss Voting Methods: Explain different voting methods, like in-person voting, mail-in ballots, and early voting. More Terms: Swing States, Electoral College, Polls 4. Talk About the Importance of Issues One of the biggest aspects of any election is understanding the issues at stake. Teaching kids to identify and think critically about these topics is essential for developing informed citizens. List Key Issues Create an Issues Chart: Make a simple chart where kids can track candidates’ stances on different issues. Look Up Your Voting Ballot Together Go Over A Voter’s Guide Talk About Leaders and Representation: Explain that elected leaders represent the interests and opinions of citizens, making decisions that affect everyone. Introduce the Concepts of Local, State, and National Elections: This is a great time to explain that elections happen at multiple levels, affecting everything from local policies to national laws. 5. Pray together as a Family Read scriptures talking about leaders.  Remind your children (and yourself) that God is in control.  Other Fun Options:  2024 US Elections Digital Family Bundle World Watch New (News for students produced by Christian journalists.)      Click the video to hear our Legislative Director, Shanté Pickford  Shanté encourages you to join the fight to maintain our homeschool freedoms by voting wisely!! Please do your research (Check out a Voter Guide HERE) and vote for candidates to the Michigan House of Representatives who do NOT support increased regulation for homeschoolers, including a homeschool registry! Vote and encourage every registered voter you know to get to the polls and do the same! EVERY VOTE MATTERS!! Also join us THIS Thursday, November 7th, as we sit down with the leaders over at HSLDA and discuss homeschool threats happening on the national level. RSVP today for FREE!  See Our Schedule HERE! And Our Wonderful Speakers HERE!   Find the Benefits HERE! Sign up today and help us continue our work of protecting and expanding homeschool freedoms in Michigan and providing important resources for families. Get fantastic benefits and perks for your family, including up to 25% off upcoming events! (Check out some past events HERE) Fight With Us HERE! These are quite uncertain times. Right now, MICHN would advise you to make sure your account is up to date and accurate with Homeschool Legal Defense Association. Be sure to visit their website, and if you have not done so already, BECOME A MEMBER today.   What's happening at MICHN