C.A.C Living Water Devotional For June 12, 2026: Title - Child Abuse Or Child Empowerment?

 

CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH (CAC)

Nigeria and Overseas

CHILD ABUSE OR CHILD EMPOWERMENT?

THE LIVING WATER DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE 2026

Date: Friday, 12th June, 2026
(World Day Against Child Labour)

Memory Verse

"And Samuel said to Jesse, Are all the young men here? Then he said, There remains yet the youngest, and there he is, keeping the sheep." — 1 Samuel 16:11

Bible Reading

1 Samuel 16:1-13

Exposition

As the world marks the World Day Against Child Labour, God reminds us of the importance of raising children in ways that develop their character, responsibility, and life skills while safeguarding their dignity and rights. Healthy responsibilities help prepare children for the future and contribute to their overall growth and maturity.

Unfortunately, many valuable aspects of child upbringing are gradually fading away. In some cases, excessive emphasis on rights without corresponding attention to discipline, responsibility, and character formation has produced generations that struggle with resilience, accountability, and leadership. True empowerment goes beyond academic achievement; it includes teaching values, work ethics, and practical life skills.

David provides a remarkable example. When Samuel arrived to anoint Israel's next king, David was faithfully tending his father's sheep. His commitment to responsibility did not go unnoticed by God. Likewise, Saul was occupied with searching for his father's lost donkeys when God called him to leadership. Similar examples can be found among women in Scripture, including Rebecca, Leah, Rachel, and Zipporah, who actively participated in caring for their families' flocks.

Education remains vital, but it should be complemented with practical and entrepreneurial skills. Engaging children in age-appropriate family responsibilities, learning a trade, helping in a family business, or participating in productive activities can build discipline, confidence, and character. Such training, when done with wisdom and care, is not exploitation but preparation for a successful future.

Young people should understand that success is not limited to office careers alone. God can use skills, trades, businesses, and various forms of honest work to bring fulfilment and prosperity. Diligence, responsibility, and a willingness to learn remain valuable qualities that open doors to greatness.

May we raise a generation that is both educated and empowered, equipped with godly character and practical wisdom to fulfil God's purpose.

Prayer Points

1. Lord, thank You for creating me with a purpose. Help me to fulfil Your divine plan for my life.
2. Father, protect me from every negative influence that seeks to derail my destiny and dreams.
3. Lord, grant parents, guardians, and leaders the wisdom to nurture children in ways that honour You and prepare them for a successful future.

Extra Reading for Today

Psalms 9–12

Author:
CAC Christian Education Department

Stay blessed, fruitful, and committed to God's purpose for His glory.