When raising children, don’t overlook the need to intentionally teach them practical integrity. The value of doing right can’t be over-emphasized. Jesus taught us that nothing on the outside of a person defiles them, but what comes from the heart (Mark 7:15). Remember the saying; “Talk is cheap?” It certainly can be. But if our personal relationship with the Lord is going to be believable, it has to be more than cheap talk. It must be the living, heart-transforming kind of relationship that alters our actions, and proves our words are true.
Training children to do the right thing, all the time, can be tiresome, because of the repetitive nature of your input/ instructions, but the results (righteous adult children) will be worth the price of your commitment to the process. Payment now (faithful effort, personal integrity of parents, watching your mouth and your attitude, going to church, loving God) will reap the greatest rewards imaginable.
If you are willing to sacrifice whatever energy, time, or commitment to the process of training by example, then you are truly wise, and your reward will be great (seeing your children grow strong in the Lord, and receive the promise of eternal life). Read the rest of this entry »



