We who are parents know that our children (especially teenagers) do not like to hear us say, “Now, back when I was a kid….”But this is an important part of training a family.

It is a wonderful thing when a “spiritual father” can encourage and help his “children” out of his own experience with the Lord. “Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the Lord” (Psalm 34:11).

What was the purpose for the Apostle Paul’s fatherly ministry to believers? His aim was that his “children” might “walk worthy of God” (1 Thessalonians 2:12).

Just as a father wants to be proud of his children, so the Lord wants to get glory through the lives of His children. Paul ministered to them in such a personal way because he was teaching them how to walk.

Every child must learn how to walk. He must have good models to follow. Paul admonished his children to walk “worthy of the Lord.” We are to walk worthy of the calling we have in Christ Jesus. God has called us; we are saved by grace.

We are a part of His kingdom and glory. One day we shall enter the eternal kingdom and share His glory. This assurance ought to govern our lives and make us want to please the Lord.

From the Bible: “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God” (Colossians 1:10).

Look up: Ephesians 4:1-3; Philippians 1:27; 2 John 4.

Action assignment: Write down things that will be counted as walking worthy of the Lord, things that you feel you should do today.

Take time to talk with the Lord about these matters. Ask Him to enable you to let the Holy Spirit govern you in your walk today

WARREN W. WIERSBE
www.backtothebible.in