WHATEVER HE IS SHOWN

WHATEVER HE IS SHOWN

The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully
trained will be like their teacher. Luke 6:40 (NIV)

Those of us with kids always wonder what they'll be like when they grow up. Actually, it is hard, sometimes, to even think of them as adults. But, it happens--they do grow up, quickly!

As they grow physically, mentally, and spiritually, it's up to us as their parents to get them started right, to be their teachers. Think about it. What they learn from us, their parents, is the most important part of what they become. And how do they learn? Mostly by watching. My Dad used to say, "Don't tell me, show me."

How true that statement is. Yes, I hope my son learns hunting, shooting, and camping from me, and that he acquires a life-long love for outdoor activities. That's a legacy that I want to pass on to him, and he to his kids someday.

But, those things are nothing compared to what he really needs to learn from me and see in me. Things like faith, forgiveness, tithing, dependability, and Bible study; how to treat a wife and his kids right; and how to disciple others so that they will also grow in our Lord. So, as he grows up, will my son be like his teacher? Yes, he will. He will be whatever I've taught him to be. More than that, he will be whatever I've shown him that I am. In the final analysis, I pray that I'm found to be a worthy teacher. Makes me stop and think. I hope it does you, too.

Proverbs 22:6 says, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it," (NKJV).

Take time to train your children, maybe even the kids next door. Teach them how to hunt, fish, and camp safely. Especially teach them about the Lord, all that He's done for us, and all that He is going to do for us in the future.

Teach your kids by example. Remember, they'll hear your words, but they'll do what they see you do.

…..Cup O’Cheer (cheer316@sc.rr.com) by way of “Christian Voices” (christianvoices@att.net)