SEPTEMBER 28, Ephesians 6:1

The Christian life has to be lived at home. Some children may claim they are Christians but at home, they are selfish to siblings, rude to parents, unkind to others. These children are putting up a front – or they are not themselves. That is a terrible sin, for that is pretending to be what they are not!

Sadly, this is true of many Christians. Are you one who says you are a Christian but not behaving as one? We were like that once before. When Christians are with believers, they seem to be living godly lives. At work, in school, they put on the best behaviour and appear to be true Christians. But what are they like at home? There they relax, with their defences down. Their life at home is a disgrace. It is very different to the way they behave outside. So much of it is unchristian.

Do you do any unkind or unchristian things at home?

What would these be?

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Paul tells children to obey their parents. They must do what their parents tell them. They must do it because this is what the Bible teaches! When your parents tell you to do your homework, do it. Often you will say, “May I first play on the computer?” or “Can I watch my TV show first?” “Can I go out and play?” Obey mummy and daddy, and obey them immediately!

When you are asked to help your mother with household chores, do you hesitate or give excuses such as ‘I have school assignments’, ‘I have not practised my piano’, ‘I have a tummy ache’, etc. That is wrong. Give your mother the due respect and obey her willingly. Love your parents. Obeying them is a form of love and your parents will see that is the best way to live a Christian life at home.

Thought: Am I an obedient child?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, please help me to love my family more and to be an obedient child. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.