This morning Gwen and I were reading Proverbs 6:20-23.
"My son, observe the commandment of your father and do not forsake the teaching of your mother; bind them continually on your heart; tie them around your neck. When you walk about, they will guide you; when you sleep, they will watch over you; and when you awake, they will talk to you. For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching is light; and reproofs for discipline are the way of life..."
Recently, Gwen and I have been noticing how much our parents' influence have shaped us. In many conversations we find ourselves frequently referring back to principles they have taught us. Each day, my thinking, actions, and decisions are influenced by my parents. Now, indirectly instead of directly. Early in childhood I was obedient for fear of punishment. Now, out of conviction. As we understand that raising children is in the near future for us, we often discuss adolescent behavior (often observed from the teens in our ministry), discipline, and other general parenting topics. Obviously we have everything to learn, but the principles that we plan to instill in our children and the way by which we plan to instill these principles are almost identical to those of our parents. As Solomon exhorts his son to allow the commandments and teachings of he and his mother, it is his hope that they guide their son after he is out from under their authority and care. Gwen and I see this happening in our lives and we pray that this will take place with our children. Thank God for the legacy left by our parents! (Deut. 6:4-9)
1 comment:
You both are quite blessed to have such legacies!
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