Scripture Reading: Genesis 26:1-35
Isaac was afraid that the men in Gerar would kill him to get his
beautiful wife, Rebekah. So he lied, claiming that Rebekah was his
sister. Where did he learn that trick? He may have known about the
actions of his father, Abraham (see 12:10-14 and 20:1-4). Parents
help shape the world's future by the way they shape their children's
values. The first step toward helping children live rightly is for
the parents to live rightly. Your actions are often copied by those
closest to you. What kind of example are you setting for your
children?
Our actions speak louder than our words. This is especially true in
the home. Children learn values, morals, and priorities by observing
how their parents act and react every day. If parents exhibit a deep
reverence for and dependence on God, the children will catch these
attitudes. Let them see your reverence for God. Teach them right
living by giving worship an important place in your family life and
by reading the Bible together.
This temptation by the devil shows us that Jesus was human, and it
gave Jesus the opportunity to reaffirm God's plan for his ministry.
It also gives us an example to follow when we are tempted. Jesus'
temptation was an important demonstration of his sinlessness. He
faced temptation and did not give in.
God is not only a disciplining parent, but also a demanding coach
who pushes us to our limits and requires our life to be disciplined.
Although we may not feel strong enough to push on to victory, we
will be able to obtain it as we follow Christ and draw upon his
strength. Then we can use our growing strength to help those around
us who are weak and struggling.
The word so is a clue that what follows is important! We must
not live with only our own survival in mind. Others will follow our
example, and we have a responsibility to them if we claim to live
for Christ. Does your example make it easier for others to believe,
follow, and mature in Christ? Or would those who follow you end up
confused and misled?
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