Being an Example, Part 3

If you will remember, in the first study we looked at being an example to our children and why that is important.  In part 2 we studied how to be a good example in the way we use our eyes, the things we let our eyes see.  In parts 3, 4, & 5 we will further study how to be a good, holy example to our children in the way we use our mouth, hands, and feet.  In this study we will look at being an example in the way we use our mouth, the things we let ourselves say.

Lexi is 15 months old.  She is getting into everything, running all over the house, and repeating everything I say.  It is a terrifying thought to know that you have basically a recorder ready to play back any words you say.  My husband and I have had to really examine the words we say and determine what we’re willing for our child to repeat.

Proverbs 10:19, “In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.”

Basically this verse is telling us that the more we say, the easier it is to sin.  Think about that for a minute.  We know that James 3 talks about the tongue:  it is a world of iniquity, something that cannot be tamed, a small thing that kindles a large fire.  James 1:19 admonishes us to be swift to hear and slow to speak.  What kind of example are you setting?  Do your children hear you speak before you even realize what you’re saying?  Are they throwing fits and screaming because that’s what they see Mommy and Daddy doing?

I have not figured out the art to perfect speech and never saying the wrong things, but I do know that what I put in my heart is what will come out of my mouth (Matthew 15:18).  In other words, when I am filling my heart, soul, and mind with good, godly things, those will be the things that I talk about.

Deut. 6:7, “And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up”

Eph. 6:4, “And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”

The things we say to our children need to be good, Christian words.  Instead of yelling in anger because they misbehave, explain that God wants them to obey you as their parent.  When they are scared, give them spiritual comfort.  Pray with your children.  Sing them to sleep at night with church songs.

Next time you have something you want to say, ask yourself if you’d be okay with admitting that your child learned to say that from you.  Would you be embarrassed if your child repeated your words to the elders?  To Jesus?  The truth is Jesus knows and hears all, including the things your child learns to say because of you.  Let’s remember these things as we strive to be good examples to our children in the way we use our mouths and the things we let ourselves say.

Elise Fleming