SUNDAY September 30, 2018
Set the Standard
And if the man said to him, “They should really burn the fat first; then you may take as much as your heart desires,” he would then answer him, “No, but you must give it now; and if not, I will take it by force.” Therefore the sin of the young men was very great before the Lord, for men abhorred the offering of the Lord.
1 Samuel 2:16-17
Notice the gravity of the sin of Eli’s sons’ they threatened God’s people and forcefully took from the sacrifices. They thought of themselves first and could not care less for the people. Their sinful behavior caused the people to abhor the offering of the Lord. Eli should have disciplined his sons.
Understand, if you have a young adult living at home, and they do not want to live by the set standards in your home, sit down with them, share the Scriptures, and then pray with them. They need to understand you cannot allow sin to continue in the home. However, you must talk to them in love. Then if they still do not want to obey, and rebel, let them know, “Here is the exit.”
Parents must be like Joshua in the Bible and set godly standards in their homes. Joshua challenged the children of Israel when he said, “…as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15). That is why parents must take the time to be with their children––to love and guide them. It is important to build relationships with your children while they are young. As parents, you may be your children’s only godly model to follow.
It is important to build trust in your relationship with your children. As children grow and mature, let them know you understand their desire to be more independent. Allow children to make mistakes. Remember how many times you fail, even as an adult? If they prove themselves to be responsible, you can allow them more freedom.
Parenting is the most important responsibility most of us will ever face, and none of us does it perfectly.
~Billy Graham~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!
