What can I do that will last until next New Year’s Day or New Year’s 2048? Build a strong foundation!
Fifteen years ago Bill was stationed in Naples, Italy and we had a blast looking around Europe. During that time we saw LOTS of ancient cities, temples, and houses. All that remains today are just the basics – the foundations and the central columns, more or less. It makes me think about how I’m using my influence and what difference it will make.
I want my kids to have a strong foundation. Daniella knows Ephesians 6:1, but that’s not all the foundation she needs when she’s tempted with disrespect like she was a few days ago. I went to the book You Can Raise a Well-Mannered Child by June Moore and found just the right information in chapter 4, but it was mainly for parents to read. I wanted something written to her. I skimmed Emily Barnes’ Little Book of Manners but didn’t find the respect chapter I needed.
This morning I found it! It’s like God to give me what I need in his Word. “Be blessed, God; train me in your ways of wise living. I’ll transfer to my lips all the counsel that comes from your mouth” (Psalm 119: 12 – 13). At least I’ll try, God! I want to. Here it is: “To make sure your foundation is trust in God, I’m laying it all out right now just for you. I’m giving you thirty sterling principles – tested guidelines to live by” (Proverbs 22: 19 – 20). Just this morning I typed out the first ten of these sterling principles for Daniella. She responds well and is doing great. Why don’t you read them and let me know what you’re doing to build a strong foundation this year?
