Values: Boundary Markers for Living - Part 3

The idea that God is interested in you may be difficult to believe and accept. He not only has an interest in his creation, but he pursues you for his purpose so your days on the earth will be worthwhile. What does he ask in return? To love him with all your heart, soul and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself.

This command is not easy because it requires identifying and analyzing your values. Someone told me her priorities were her career first, then family, her social life, and finally God. Then she was diagnosed with a life-threatening disease. Confined to convalescence for an extended time, she was forced to rethink her purpose and goals for her life.

Identifying and analyzing your values may result in life-changing decisions. That God is interested in you and will pursue you is validated by Jesus' words, "I have come that you might have life and have it abundantly." To accept that God is interested in you may require rearranging your values to include his love and purpose for you.  

Golden Rule: Golden Opportunities - Part 1

During her early childhood years, my granddaughter would make up some really funny stories. Occasionally her mother would ask, "Now is that what actually happened?" My daughter's purpose in questioning her was to teach the value of being truthful.

Most parents want their children to acquire a strong measure of independence. Gradually granting children independence enables them to stand apart from their peers enough to make decisions based on the values they were taught. Children need to know that strong, healthy values anchored in love for Christ Jesus are a mainstay in an ever-changing world.

"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" must be taught over and over until it sticks. It should be taught with gentleness and love for God in your heart and attitude. It's also critically important to help children recognize and understand their weaknesses and to teach them how to receive forgiveness from you and God. Healthy values stick forever.