March 26 ~ Proverbs 20:7, 11
The godly walk with integrity; blessed are their children who follow them.
Even children are known by the way they act, whether their conduct is pure, and whether it is right.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I recently heard a discussion about child rearing – and more specifically, methods of discipline. An “expert” was asked how she felt about spanking, and she stated that she did not feel it was appropriate. Others in the group noted that they were spanked as children, and this did not harm them in the long run. The “expert” explained her position by saying that things are different for today’s children. She said, “The world is teaching our children – through television, movies, the Internet and other outside influences. We need to give them wisdom and show them what is right.” She contended that now – more than ever – we need to teach our children how to live and behave with words and examples… not with physical discipline.
This example is not meant to stir a discussion on the pros and cons of spanking. But as I listened to this woman speak… and I read these verses from Proverbs… I was struck by the importance of our example to children in all things – especially in terms of today’s world. My cousin told me recently that she cannot allow her children to watch “regular TV,” because it is such a poor influence on them. We have become so numb to foul language, violence and inappropriate sexual situations on prime time and daytime television that we don’t even notice what our children are seeing and hearing… until we get into a public situation and the little ones spout some expletive (in correct context) or bring up a situation that we are appalled to realize is even on their radar screen! We have gotten so used to commercials for adult health and hygiene products during our nightly news that we don’t even notice them… until our kids come to us and want to know why we need XYZ product!
I’m afraid that there are far too many situations where we tell our children – and those who are not-so-young – to “do as I say, not as I do.” When I was teaching, I had a rule that “I won’t believe everything I hear from your child, if you don’t believe everything they come home and tell you.” And I stand by this statement, because I know that children have vivid imaginations and a propensity for embellishment. But at the same time, we must pay attention to the words and actions of children, because they tell us a lot about the purity of their upbringing and the integrity of their home.
I know I say this a lot, but people are watching! They notice what you say and do, and they assess your moral character – your integrity – according to your words and actions. They also gauge uprightness by how your children and those with whom you associate conduct themselves. If you accept the inappropriate or immoral behaviors of others, it speaks to your own values and integrity. We must walk away from inappropriate conversations… we must not share off-color jokes or bigoted comments – we must guard what our children see and hear and make a concerted effort to teach them to live with honesty and decency. We must mean what we say and do… and guard against hypocrisy.
When others look at your children… or your friends and associates… what do they see? What do their behaviors and attitudes say about you as their friend, parent, or mentor? Do you walk with integrity that extends to others in your “circle” of influence? Shouldn’t you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
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