CONDUCT
Conduct is vital and how we conduct ourselves can make or break a situation or a relationship. “Here is a simple, rule of thumb guide for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them. Add up God’s law and Prophets and this is what you get.” (Matthew 7:12 MSG) I really love The Message version of this passage. It truly sums up conduct simply. The Golden Rule and Jesus’ second greatest commandment “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39 NIV) We simply should not bear a grudge or actively keep it alive, vengeance belongs to God! Let him have it! Do we want to teach vengeance to our children? No let’s teach love, and conduct ourselves in the same manner we appreciate to be treated.
No matter our age, we can teach our youth to be respectful of other in all aspects. We can raise a generation with manners, couth, and civility. Surely this behavior earned Timothy the respect of others and Paul’s respect as well.
We are shaped by the environment we are surrounded by. Be it hostility as I reflect on the little boy at the restaurant, he may grow up feeling it is acceptable to insult, fight, yell, and scream at others. Maybe it will be shame and feelings of guilt, ridicule and learning to be shy, fear and apprehensiveness. Maybe they grow up with encouragement, love and support building with self-confidence while encouraging others themselves. “Point your kids in the right direction-when they’re old they won’t be lost” (Proverbs 22:6 MSG)
What if rather than tending to our phones and status updates as parents, we stop when our kids ask why and we encourage them to investigate and learn more. What if we build up rather than break down?
“Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word a gift.” (Eph. 4:29 MSG) Each word is a gift, today I challenge you to make each word a gift, encourage others, build up a relationship and enjoy the day.
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