Modeling Godliness
Titus 2:7-8: In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us (NIV).
Studies shows that kids learn more from our actions than they do from our words. It shouldn't surprise us that this is a biblical concept. James said, "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says" (Jas. 1:22 NIV).
Almost 2,000 years ago, Paul stressed the importance of modeling godliness to his young protégé, Titus. Paul knew that we give our opponents a chance to discredit our testimony when we live ungodly lives.
This principle applies to our kids as well. For example, if a father wants his children to respect their mother, he must show respect to her as well. If we stress the importance of obeying the speed limit, we need to model obedience in our own driving. Our actions demonstrate what we really believe and our kids look at our example when weighing the truth of our words.
Model godliness for your kids.
