Train Up A Child

"Train up a child and when he is old he will not depart..."

I've often thought that verse of scripture in the Bible is overused and taken out of context. However, I've come to see it can be applied in many different ways.

We have influence over our children and the children in our world with whom we come into contact.

Andy at the reception

Recently, we had a big event in our family...a wedding. As the time drew near and plans were being made for family to arrive, the need for housing arose. My son, Andy, offered his home and I didn't hesitate to accept.

From the time he was able to crawl he has witnessed his parents arrange tables, prepare food, clean our house, and welcome guests. His life has been filled with Sunday School functions, youth parties, soccer team cookouts and weekend get-togethers with friends.

I shouldn't be surprised that he was willing to open up his home for our family.

Train up a child...

Every detail for their arrival was planned, right down to the matching towels in the guest bathroom. He made sure they had breakfast before he had to be at the church at 7:30 a.m. for pictures on the morning of the wedding.

(L to R) Matt, Emily, Judy, Jeff, and Andy

Andy is quiet by nature but loves making people feel at home. All those years of entertaining in our home have seeped into the skin of my son.

As I've had time to reflect on the wedding and the events surrounding the celebration, it has caused me to ponder. Has he been a witness to other characteristics? Has the fruit of the spirit been demonstrated as well...love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control?

Train up a child...

Our children are always watching, parenting never ends. As we age, they are aging too. We are continually modeling a new stage for them. How I live my todays could be how they live their tomorrows.

Some of you may have heart children that you minister to. Love them unconditionally and show them the way. They may never see love displayed in this manner.

Train up a child...

I'm so proud of Andy and how he cared for his family and friends for his sister's wedding. It was a tremendous help to me and his dad and deepened his relationships with family. And isn't that the most important thing anyway?

Train up a child and when he is old he will not depart from it. You may think your words are falling on dry ground, but keep speaking them with love. Live your faith in front of your children and they will know what you believe through your actions. Little eyes and ears are attuned to you even when you think they aren't paying attention.

One day, like me, you'll wake up with grown children who make you proud.

Cindy