The Witness of Parents and Children
Scripture Reading — Proverbs 31:10-31
Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.
—Proverbs 31:28
The recent movie Moms’ Night Out is about three frazzled mothers of toddlers who finally go out one night while their husbands watch the kids. What could go wrong? As their evening spins out of control in hilarious ways, the heart of the movie comes out: mothering is the toughest job you’ll ever love. And since no parent is perfect, they need God’s unconditional love to relax and enjoy the journey.
It’s been said that the days of parenting can be long, but the years are short. As many empty-nesters say, “Enjoy them while you can!”
Many Christians can point to their parents as the primary witness God used to nurture their faith. Proverbs 31 is a tribute to a woman whose everyday care, generosity, and faithful instruction led her children to say she is blessed. In what ways can you say so of your parents or guardians? Tell them! If you’re married, compliment your spouse for the ways they bless you and your family!
Blessings flow the other way too. In 1 Timothy 5:4 Paul writes, “If a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God.” So, not only parents but also children can be graceful Christian witnesses!
Holy God, I praise you for the ways my parents provided for me. Forgive my shortcomings, and help me to bless people in all the ways I can. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.
About the author — Daryl DeKlerk
Daryl DeKlerk pastors a church in Jarvis, Ontario. He is thankful for a sabbatical that enabled him to study the theme of Grace-filled Christian Witness. Daryl and his wife have three young children who keep them on their toes and on their knees in prayer.
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