Walk in His Light

1 John 2:3-5   “We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them”

Is it just me or it is so hard to remain consistent in our Christian walk?  Every word, every action reflects our inner self, and it is my fear that too many times this is reflecting the world’s view and not God’s love.  When other’s see this type of activity, judgments are made relative to the Christian faith.  You and I are representatives of Jesus Christ in this life and we ought to truly consider that before we act or speak.

As a parent I think about the words I have said to my children over the years.  I am saddened by the times when my temper got the best of me and they were left crushed in their spirit.  In reflection, what would have happened if I had paused, thought it through and reflected God’s love and sense of Fatherhood in the situation?  How much more of a positive impact might I have had on their lives, and how much more would they have been trained to do the same.  When we look at our children’s actions, we must pause and look at our own; for you see in most circumstances their actions mirror what they have learned from you.

Just as a Christian should reflect the love for God and the truth and peace of Jesus Christ, our children reflect the image of their parents.  Are you seeing anger, poutiness, selfishness, disrespect and pride in your children or are you seeing love, compassion, peace, servanthood, empathy and respectfulness in your children?  Either way, the likelihood of them getting these attributes from outside of the house is slim.  They observe you and your actions from the moment they begin to learn.  You’ve heard that the formative years are from 1 to 5, I would propose that it is actually 1 to 18.  These children are your precious lifeblood.  They will carry on these attributes throughout their entire life.  You set the bar, and should take it seriously. 

The Father has demonstrated love, grace, compassion, servanthood, peace, generosity, truthfulness and respect for others; through His Son Jesus.  We are to strive to carry these forward from generation to generation and instil them in our children and their children.  Teach them to love, to cherish, to empathize and to serve others.  Teach them to reflect Jesus Christ and they will carry it forward.

Be Blessed,

Rich

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