Guide Your Children the Lord's Way Dr. Deepika Emmanuel Sagar "Consider now, for the Lord has chosen you to build the temple as a sanctuary. Be strong and do the work." (1 Chr 28:10)
How often do we guide our children from a spiritual perspective, to follow and hold on to the Lord? David spoke the encouraging words in our verse to Solomon, while handing over the plans for the Lord's temple. If we have a heart that follows God's word, we can give our children God's perspective. But, if we are mesmerized by the doings of the flesh and mankind's praise, we will lead our children to do the same. Isn't it amazing how we shape the minds of a young life! As we grow and learn from our experiences with the Lord, we are called to pass it on to the next generation.
David goes on to tell Solomon to acknowledge God and serve Him with wholehearted devotion and a willing mind, for God understands every motive behind our thoughts (1 Chr 28:9). The Lord had chosen David because of His heart for God. David purposely passed on his dedicated heart and spiritual strength to his son. Because of this foundation, when God asked Solomon the desire of his heart, he asked for God's wisdom (1 King 3:5-9). Then, with a heart for God like his father, plus God's strength and wisdom, he grew and served the higher purposes of the Lord. Solomon became the wisest king on the earth, and there was none like him (1 King 3:12-13).
With intention, make it a priority to pass on your heart for God, your spiritual strength, and godly wisdom to your children; hide it not from them. Let them know how God has sustained you and helped you win the 'battles' of your life. Teach them to serve the Lord and do what is right as you walk in the Spirit and not in the flesh. It's our privilege and responsibility as parents to instruct them in the ways of the Lord.
Today's writer lives with her husband and son in India. With a spiritual gift of writing, she is an author and does freelance writing, to spread His love and kingdom. Contact |