God’s Representatives

Read Proverbs 28

Young people who obey the law are wise; those with wild friends bring shame to their parents.

Proverbs 28:7

Each of us has probably raised, known, or been a teenager who befriended certain people just to spite his or her parents. As parents, what kinds of emotions do we feel when this happens? Shame? Anger? Worry?

Parenting allows us to uniquely understand God’s role as our heavenly Father. When we ourselves seek out ”wild friends,” we bring shame to God. And just like our response at our children’s disobedience, God’s anger builds when we intentionally sin against him.

As members of God’s family, we represent him wherever we go. Many times our example will be one of the only pictures of God others will see. As Christians we have the opportunity to reinforce Christ’s reputation or undermine it. Obeying God’s law not only builds up God’s family but also brings glory to God himself.

A WORD FOR TODAY

The wise keep good company.

Today, Lord, give me ways to show others your love through my obedience.