Before Israel crossed into the promised land, they were warned about the dangers they would encounter among the Canaanite nations and also the dangers that would arise due to the Lord’s abundant blessing. Moses instructed them to teach all his words “diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up.” God was to be spoken in the home. In doing this, two things would result (at least). First, the Lord God would receive the glory due Him. Secondly, not only the children but the entire family would continually keep God before them as the One who protects and sustains them.
Moses’ instruction is sound and wise, even for today. How many Christian parents actually speak “God” in their homes?
When the day is beautiful, the sun is warm, and a nice breeze meanders its way through your neighborhood, who gets the credit? Is it simply a lovely day which the meteorologist on TV happened to forecast correctly? Is Mother Nature the one who is thanked? Or do you acknowledge that God has blessed you with a glorious day?
When someone in the family has been ill, and they have made full recovery, who is praised in your home? Is it the doctor? The medication? All well and good, but does God receive any credit for a healing or for making such medical marvels possible?
When one of the children needs corrected, how is it done? Is it strictly your rules that were broken and your heart which was grieved? Or was God brought into the conversation as Someone who also had a vital interest in what happened?
When one of the kids wins a competition or gets an award, who is credited? Is it only because of the child’s hard work and talent, or is the Creator of us all also acknowledged for His gracious gifts?
If we walk with God, we also live with God. When the storm comes or the rainbow graces the sky; when there is plenty or when there is just enough; when the birds sing or when the wolves howl - is God spoken? Is He praised and thanked for the blessing? Is He looked to and called upon for relief? Is God spoken in your home?
><> Jeff
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