Too Much Attitude?
There's a lot of attitude in the world today. And we see it in our kids too, don’t we? A lack of respect, of reverence for authority sneaks into the look on their faces, the tone in their voices. It’s enough to make us wonder where we went wrong as parents at times. And yet, there is hope for nurturing the hearts of our children.
When was the last time you trembled? Was it after reading Scripture? There is a direct connection between our reverence and awe of God, the need for humility in our lives, and the resulting favor and esteem of God. When it comes to parenting, I want nothing more than for my children to be living lives of blessing and favor. The key? Humility.
Isaiah 66:1-2 reads,
This is what the Lord says:
“Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. Where is the house you will build for me? Where will my resting place be? 2 Has not my hand made all these things, and so they came into being?” declares the Lord.
“These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word.”
God is love. No doubt about that. But in the course of our day, we often forget that He is Creator, Mighty, Holy, and Awesome! When we stop and consider that God has made everything around us, from the tiny cells rushing around inside our bodies to the mind-boggling ferocity of the galaxies, it gives us perspective. This is His world.
Point it out to your children. Take time to stop and smell the roses. Remind your kids that God made all those different kinds of insects to help maintain a healthy environment in which we live. Point them to the enormity of God, and then whisper to them the truth that as BIG as God is, He never stops thinking about them. He knows the number of hairs on their heads. He loves them. Teach them the sacredness of Scripture-that God Himself sent them this special book as a message for their hearts. And in so doing, you are giving them the gift of the pathway to humility as they recognize that God is Sovereign over the world and their lives, lovingly drawing us into relationship with Himself, and blessing us with His favor.
Every time my life seems out of control, off track, or filled with fear, it’s because of my own pride. I have forgotten that the earth is His footstool, that I am His cherished daughter, that He has a plan to prosper me and not to harm me. It’s necessary for me to daily keep before me the truth of this passage from Scripture, and instead of shaking in my boots at my circumstances or thinking that I can handle my life in my own strength, I need to reverently and joyfully read the Word of God-and tremble.
What ways do you use to teach your children humility?
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