Daily Devotionals
Daily Devotional: Psalms 127:1-5
Ps 127:1-5
1 Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain. 2 In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat--for he grants sleep to those he loves. 3 Sons are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from him. 4 Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one's youth. 5 Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their enemies in the gate.
Eph 6:1-4
1 Children obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 "Honor your father and mother"-which is the first commandment with a promise- 3 "that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth." 4 Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
Mark Twain is reported to have said that it is a shame that youth has to be wasted on young people. By the time we figure out what life is all about, we are too old and burdened with so much responsibility that it is hard to enjoy it. This is why Solomon advised that we remember our creator in the days of our youth but to enjoy the time while we can. Have fun while young but remember God.
Children are a blessing from God. But with every blessing comes responsibility. As parents we are commanded to teach and train our children to respect and to serve God. God commended Abraham because he knew that he would teach his children the ways of the Lord. But too often, like being young, by the time we figure it out and learn how to raise our children they are all grown up.
Whether we are children, parents or grand parents God has told us how to live and has explained our responsibilities to us. Most of what others learn from us is learned by example. I read of a study by our federal government that determined (after spending several million dollars) children imitate their parents! So whatever our place in life, we are to follow the will of God as revealed in his word. By doing this we will find true peace and happiness now and eternal life in the end.
Heavenly Father I am so thankful for my family. Guide me each day to be the best husband, father, father-in-law and granddad I can be. Even though my parents are gone from this life, help me live in a way that honors you and in so doing, honors them also. Forgive me when I fail. Help me trust you more in all things, realizing that you alone have the answers of life and how to live. I pray for your people that we will have love for each other and be true to you in all things. Be with the leaders of our nation that we may have peace. I pray in the name of Jesus.
Robert
