These two
verses talk about the “fear of the Lord” as well as about humility. We don’t
have to cower in fear—being afraid of God. No this “fear of the Lord” is actually “respect” for the Lord. That is how
I see it—we need to give God our respect—putting Him first in our lives and
actions. That thought and action in itself is humbling—so we’re off in the
right direction. These verses again support each other in that humility comes
before honor—or anything else, like riches and life—eternal life. The “riches”
isn’t something that we should covet, but something that God gives, not
something for which we strive. Life is more about helping others—being that
servant like Jesus—than about getting rich. We have to work to live—but life
can’t be just about working, getting paid, getting things and saving money.
Keeping my eyes on Jesus, respecting Him and striving to become like Him, is
what I want my life to be. Knowing that what I do pleases Him is the greatest
reward for me today. How about you?
Training Tip – Talk about “rewards” and how we earn rewards for
things we do. Your paycheck is a “reward” for the hours that you spend doing
your job. Money, treats, stickers, “Job Well Done” certificates, and hugs are
also “rewards” for tasks. Sometimes the reward may be more or less than
expected. We need to humbly accept our “reward.”
Make a “DO
LIST” jar…with slips of paper on which each has a separate task that your children
can do. Let them choose a task from the jar—or from a jar specifically for each
child. Then they have to go and do that task and come back to you for a “reward.”
Be creative in your list of tasks and rewards as a teaching tool. You may want
to continue this activity for a week or a month.
Lord – Help my children and grandchildren to develop
a good work ethic that goes beyond seeking riches, but one in which they are
willing to humbly serve.
All
scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise
noted.
© 2013 by Mickey
M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
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