Relationships aren’t always perfectly wrapped with a bow tied neatly on top. They get messy and hard and remind us of why we need Jesus. Daley lines out how we can model the real-ness of relationships…even when we’re not perfect.

Scripture

“He must become greater, and I must become less.” 

John 3:30

Reflect

I first met Jesus living in the person of my mom and dad. One of the biggest gifts in my life has been having a front row seat to watching my parents model what it looks like to pursue Jesus Christ with their whole heart and give their lives away for the Gospel.

My parents did an incredible job of showing me and my siblings what a Christ centered marriage looks like. They modeled Christ for us in their relationship with one another and taught us to do the same.

My parents certainly aren’t perfect, they are human, BUT they were quick to give glory to God as they yielded to one another, forgave each other when there was conflict, and loved each other, and us kids, unconditionally. They also had fun & laughed along the journey : ) Mom and Dad modeled the realities of relationships for us kids and showed us what it meant to put Jesus first, others second and yourself third.

As parents He specifically calls us to be leaders and examples of integrity. Proverbs 20:7 says, “The godly walk with integrity; blessed are their children who follow them.” How can we model Christ and be examples of integrity?  

1. Forgive freely— The hard truth is that we ALL need forgiveness. We are in desperate need to be forgiven daily, and to forgive others daily, every hour increasingly. Asking for forgiveness is an admission to say, “I’m not perfect.” It’s hard to admit that we aren’t perfect. But let’s be real, we all make mistakes. That’s why Jesus came!! Parents, model forgiveness for your kids. Practice this with your spouse and your children. Jesus said that we are to forgive over and over again. (Matt. 18:21-22)
2. Give grace generously— Ask God to grant you the grace to receive His great grace today, and for the grace to give it freely and generously. After all, He has forgiven you completely!
3. Speak encouraging words— Communication is key. Talk about the situation. Speak words of life, not death (Proverbs 18:21).
4. Love from the center – Love covers a multitude of sins. Remember, love keeps no record of wrongs. Be quick to forgive, quick to admit your own mistakes and quick to move on from conflict (1 Cor. 13).
5. Set the example. Children are influenced by what they see and hear (Luke 6:40).  More than any other influence in a child’s life, a parent will model and show what it’s like to be in God honoring relationships.

Be an example of love, forgiveness and grace to your children. Point them to Christ!

Camper Corner

Practice forgiving your brother or sister today by not just saying, “I’m sorry,” but asking, “Will you please forgive me?” Practice encouragement by telling your mom or dad one way you see Jesus in them.