What Do You Want For Your Children?

By Joe Slater

    The question in the title could be asked of moms as well as dads. You’ve heard the cliché “like father, like son.” Scripture also recognizes the tendency of sons to imitate their fathers and even previous ancestors (Acts 7:51).
    So, dads, what do you want for your children? For your grandchildren? Are you teaching them by word? I hope so! But the effect of your words will be diminished unless you lead by example!
    Do you want your children to learn and obey the gospel? (How could any father not want his children to become Christians?) Have you, yourself, confessed Christ as Lord and been immersed into Him?
    Do you want your children to meet regularly with the brethren? You know what’s right, and you know it goes far beyond a single hour on Sunday morning. Your children will imitate your example above your words.
    Do you want your children to put God first? Yes, even before ball games? birthday parties? fishing? hunting? golfing? God holds you responsible not just to tell them what is most important, but to show them!
    Do you want your children to serve others joyfully? When last did you take them with you to visit someone homebound? (What a bright spot that puts in everyone’s day!)
    Do you want your children to be evangelistic? If you don’t set the example, the secular world will most definitely teach them, “keep your religion to yourself!”
    The list goes on endlessly. What do you want for your children?

- Joe Slater serves as minister of the Church of Christ in Justin, TX. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://justinchurchofchrist.com