THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus

Friday, January 10, 2025

Lord, we’ve heard it said, “It all begins at home,”—whatever “it” is. Perhaps the most important “it” would be the influence we have on those in our world.

Parents play a vital role in the spiritual and emotional development of their kids. Decades ago, a TV commercial involved a man and little boy sitting under a tree. The man pulled out a cigarette and lit up. The little boy found a twig and pretended to smoke, like his dad. The significance of the commercial warned us to be careful how we act since we are being watched.

The psalmist may have touched on this timeless truth when he recorded his “New Year’s” resolutions.

“I will lead a life of integrity in my own home” (Psalm 101:2b)

Some, like politicians, celebrities, or clergy, exert great influence. We everyday people may have some influence, but usually ours is limited to a certain few. I’m forced to question myself: Is my public persona different from my home persona? Does my kindness and consideration disappear when I get home? Do I give the same attention at home as I do with coworkers or fellow church members? Or strangers in public? Do people wonder which version of me will show up?

The psalmist knew this timeless personality quirk. His “New Year’s” resolution was to be the same wherever and with whomever he found himself with.

Lord, may I use what influence you have given me to reflect my relationship with you, and my desire to love others as you love them. I pray I might be consistent in treating others as I would like to be treated (Matthew 7:12; Luke 6:31).

Please use my influence so others will desire a closer relationship with you. Amen, Jesus