Genesis 26; 1 Chronicles 23; John 7:14-24; Galatians 3:15-29; Psalm 18: Years ago Life Action Ministries come to our church and preached a revival. God did huge things that week and some of the wise saying and principles helped form our parenting philosophy. We see one of those principles lived out in our scripture today. “What we excuse in moderation our children will practice in excess.”
Isaac had heard how his father had deceived leaders by telling them that Sarah was his sister. For them it was somewhat true because she was a half sister. For Isaac it was completely false when he claimed the same thing. Isaac had watched his father tell half truths and justify his behavior. For the son deception became an acceptable practice because he had watched his father. It is interesting that Isaac names one of his sons Jacob which means deceiver. That son would live up to his name deceiving his own father.
What do you practice in moderation believing that just a little won’t hurt? Remember there is alway someone watching you. If you call yourself a Christ follower remember whose name you carry. Ask these things:
* Would I do this if Jesus was sitting here with me?
* What is contributing to making me feel like this is okay?
* Will this bring glory to God?
As you work through those questions evaluate your answers. Jesus is within you not just beside you. Through the power of the Holy Spirit you can say no to whatever the temptation. If fear of man and peer pressure pushes you, stand strong in the power of the Spirit. Be You not them! In the end our purpose is to bring Him glory so say no to the desires of the flesh to say yes to the Spirit. Keep some verses of scripture on your tongue and in your mind that will help you fight the fleshly desires for things that will never satisfy and may bring even greater heart ache as you children repeat the behaviors. God’s strength is there for you!