By: Dawn Elliott
We live in a society of discontentment. Adults are always looking for a better job, more pay, a better car, a nicer house, and even more recognition. Our children want more games, more toys, better sports equipment, the best position in sports, and better clothes. Our society is buried in debt and discontentment. The Bible commands us to be content and thankful, and, as parents, it is our job to disciple our children, teaching them godly priorities. Upon reflection, I realized that there are three essential things that I would like for my children to learn.
Contentment
Hebrews 13:5 says, “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’” As Christians, we have all we need to be content. Jesus has promised to always be with us. We may not have everything that we want, and life may not always be easy, but we have a Heavenly Father that has promised to be with us and supply all of our needs (Philippians 4:19)
Thankfulness
I Thessalonians 5:18 says, “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” It does not tell us to be thankful when things are good and life is comfortable, but it says to be grateful in all circumstances. In the good, the bad, and the indifferent, God is still the same, and we have reason to be thankful.
The Value of Eternity
Matthew 6:19-21 says, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” What I have here on earth will mean nothing in eternity. The only thing that will matter is what I have done for Christ and His kingdom.
My children will best learn these lessons if I model them in my everyday life. Our children tend to emulate our actions and attitudes, so what are we teaching them? My prayer is that I will be content and thankful and that my children will learn by my example.
Shine! 