“Likewise, urge the younger men to be self-controlled. Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.” (Titus 2:6-8, ESV)
In my former place of employment, I actually took a class on posture. The instructor believed greatly in walking properly with back straight and shoulders squared. While it may look a little more attractive to walk that way, ultimately, I do not think the Lord cares if our children can walk across the room while balancing books upon their heads. He does, however, care greatly about their spiritual walk.
Our prayer for our children should be that they walk wisely (Ephesians 5:15-16). We should desire that they walk in love (Ephesians 5:2.) How our children carry themselves matters. Let’s pray that they would be men and women of integrity, discipline and self-control. The world is watching and they need to see Jesus.
”Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” (Luke 6:38, ESV)
Our children were made in the image of God. As parents, it is our job to instill in them the characteristics of Him as well. In addition to being loving and kind and faithful, we want to raise up children who are full of generosity. It is God’s very nature to give generously and we, as His children, should do no less. We should be generous with our time, our energy and our resources. Nothing should be off limits when it comes to serving God.
Our prayer should be that we raise children who know what it means to give. We must teach them how to serve others in a “serve me” world. God does not withhold any good thing from us. His gifts are generous and His love is lavish. May we live lives of generosity in His name.
Written by Stacy Edwards
