"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." (Proverbs 22:6)

"Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." (1 Corinthians 11:1)

One of the more sobering realities of parenting is that our children often learn more from what we do than from what we say. In 1 Kings 11:4, we read about Solomon, a man known for his great wisdom. Yet as he grew older, his heart was led astray, and he did not remain fully devoted to the Lord. This stands in contrast to the legacy of his father David, who, despite his failures, was known for his heart for God and his desire to follow Him.

It raises an important question: What shaped Solomon’s spiritual direction over time? Scripture shows us that even with a strong heritage, the influences, choices, and examples surrounding a person matter deeply. It reminds us of a timeless truth: Children are always watching. They absorb our attitudes, values, habits, and responses to life's challenges. They learn how to handle disappointment, conflict, success, failure, generosity, honesty, and faith by observing the significant adults around them.

As parents, we naturally want our children to be respectful, resilient, compassionate, truthful, and faithful. Yet these qualities are not developed through instruction alone. They are cultivated through daily example. Our children notice how we speak about others, how we respond when things do not go our way, whether we keep our promises, and whether our actions align with our beliefs.

This can feel like a heavy responsibility, but it is also a wonderful opportunity. Every day presents countless moments to model integrity, kindness, humility, perseverance, and trust in God. The Apostle Paul encouraged believers to "follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ" (1 Corinthians 11:1).

As parents, grandparents, and caregivers, may we seek to live in such a way that our children see not perfection, but a genuine and growing faith. The example we set today may shape the character of our next generation.

Blessings,

Don Grimmett,
Principal