The Carpenter’s Toolbox

Kevin and my father built our first house. From the foundation, to the roof and everything in between. It was amazing all the tools they needed and used. Their toolboxes spanned the back of their trucks just to hold most of them. It took years to finish the house but in the end the completed project was a hand crafted beautiful home.

In the Bible, the word carpenter is mentioned 11 times. In Isaiah 28:16 the Sovereign Lord mentioned carpenter references. “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation, the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic.” And in the book of Mark 6:3 it says Jesus was a carpenter. Some say he was a stone mason. Jesus does say in Matthew 16:18 “and on this rock I will build my church (speaking of the disciple Peter) another carpenter reference.

My husband and I together have raised three sons. We did our best with our limited knowledge of raising children. We took them to church, played sports, they each learned an instrument and are all Eagle Scouts. We sent them through a Christian home school program. People would often say “your boys are so well rounded!” It does take a village though, grandparents, coaches, teachers and ministers have all played a part. Thankfully the guys are all saved, gainfully employed and have families of their own.

They weren’t always perfect and they tried their own way. I wondered at times why did they throw out the tool box we gave them? But, overtime I have realized it’s only been at the back of the closet waiting for them to bring it out again.

Proverbs 22:6 NIV Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.

The Holy Bible is our toolbox, pull it out of the closet, read it, follow it and you will have the tools to navigate and have an abundant life.