Monday, August 14, 2017

Model It

"Do as I say, not as I do." We all know that idea doesn't truly work, especially as parents.

I can tell my daughter that she needs to spend time in prayer and Bible study, but I I don't model it, she won't see the importance. When she sees me studying my Bible and praying, she has proof that doing these things have value. If I don't engage in these activities I require of her, I prompt doubt. She will wonder why she needs to study her Bible and pray.

There are many areas in life to model. Out reactions and attitudes in situations and with people are to be modeled. The Bible instructs us to treat others as better than ourselves. We can preach this, but the best way to convey this is to be kind to that unlovable person.

My husband has been the best role model for reading the Bible for personal study. He is a pastor and can struggle with not always studying the Word for his sermons. I usually see him pull out his Bible or his iPad in the evening at some point and read the Bible reading for his plan he has set for himself. This has been a great example for me and our daughter. We see that he values reading the Bible personally, not just for preparation for teaching or preaching.

Has someone in your life been a good role model for you?

Who was or is that person and what did or do they model for you?


Saturday, August 12, 2017

More on Staying Firm and Consistent

The consistency in passing along a Christian heritage can truly be difficult to maintain.

Often as my life becomes busy with a full time job and then coming home to another full time job of caring for my family, I let things slip. I'll neglect reading my Bible. I'll even barely go to the Lord in prayer. If I'm not being consistent in my Christian walk, it is difficult to convey the importance and need to others. But I have learned that at these times, I need to pray and read the Word more than ever.

Admittedly, I'll return to those teachable moments by admitting that I got off track and that it wasn't right. I need to repent and return to staying near to God through reading His Word and communicating through prayer.

God has called me to follow His precepts, not the world's. To ensure a Godly legacy I have to stay firm and consistent in teaching and emphasizing what God would endorse. If I know something wouldn't be acceptable to God, I should steer myself and those I have influence over away from it. I must teach others to do the same.

Staying firm and consistent in the ways of God is the right example for others to see. And God clearly instructs us not to conform to the ways of this world. We are to be different.

Will we take some ridicule for it? Probably.

Will we be labeled too strict? Sure.

Will we be found faithful in transmitting this all-important Christian heritage? Yes, servant, you will!

What struggles have you experienced in staying firm and consistent in passing along a Godly legacy?