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pouring truth in to our families


Train up a child in the way he should go, Even when he is old he will not depart from it.

This week I am excited to some time with my family in Oklahoma.  It has already been a blessing.  As I said yesterday, I am so blessed.

One of the stories that comes to mind about my childhood is one I am not always proud of.  There was a time when I enjoyed stretching truth.  Yes, as a child I had a problem with lying.  One day in the preschool at our church I tried convinced some people that my dad quit his job and started driving a big truck.

What I do remember well is how that situation and others led to even more lies.  When you have to make up a story, you have to make up other stories to cover the first.  It is something like a snowball rolling down hill getting bigger and bigger.

Another time I remember being given some money when we were at a ball game.  When I was asked what I did with the left over money after going to concessions, I didn’t tell the truth.  My parents corrected me when they realized what happened. 

That is one of the things that my parents did often.  Be honest.  Tell the truth.  Do what is right.  That is something that I believe every home, every family, and every parent needs to instill in their kids.  If we do not address issues when they happen or even before they happen, we are not raising our children well.

We cannot be passive about the realities of our world.  My parents and family were not and are not perfect, but they spent time pouring in to me and brother what is truth and right.  They took us to church.  They loved us and demonstrated much of what is important for people who want to live by faith.

Spending time with my parents and my brothers this week is a big deal that I am grateful for.  Mom is getting stronger, and I pray she is able to move out of the nursery/rehab center to home later this month.  I am enjoying spending time talking with my dad.  I have already spent some time with each of my brothers.  I love them big time and pray for them often.

Moving forward isn’t always easy.  Last evening we visited my home church which is always a treat when we see some of the people who mean so much to me.  I was sitting between my dad and my daughter Rebecca.  As we sat there I realized that this little girl will in a few weeks move to college and begin a new part of her life.  Not many years ago I was moving away from this church to go to college.  A few years before I was in middle school learning and enjoying my church family.

That was an eye opening moment, but I am excited for the days to come.  My past is laced with great things and moments, but our future also is open to great blessings and opportunities make memories with my kids and family.

It is my responsibility and opportunity to pour the same truth and right living in to the lives of the people that I have influence over.  I am grateful that my parents and others did that for me!

3 John 1:4  NLT
I could have no greater joy than to hear that my children are following the truth.

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