I am neither Theologian nor Psychologist. I have been trained in neither the works of the mind nor the actions of human beings or even the meanings of the verses of the bible (But I am faithfully studying and coming to a greater understanding). My years of observation of the human race as well as experience from daily interaction with people and making poor decisions is what qualifies me to show others the consequences of those actions. What I also have is the ability to listen and study what has been taught as well as the memory of what my dad told me and wrote a few years before his death:
"At the time of this writing there are decedents and there will be more. To give encouragement and counsel now is somewhat difficult. Times and philosophies change. It can be said, however, based on the present and the past that some things never change. One of them is the essentiality of honorable character. Recognize the other person as an individual having his characteristics. Have respect for the opinion of others, even if that opinion does not agree with yours. Remember too, that the road to tomorrow's success and happiness must have spiritual cultivation today."
...the road to tomorrow's success and happiness must have spiritual cultivation today...
I have learned from my past experiences and a plethora of poor choices. I have paid for and continue to suffer the consequences of those choices. It is far better to learn from personal mistakes and observation of other persons mistakes than to trudge through life following our own arrogance. The Spirit of God whispers to us through our conscience to do the right thing. We are continually faced with decisions for what we do and what we say. Over the years I have also learned that it makes absolutely no difference what other people think. The Spirit whispers to us that we know what's right, so we need to get off dead center and "DO IT." Our choices, whether you want to believe it or not, are life changing, not only for us, but for everyone we come in contact with, everyone we speak with, every heart we touch. Take a look at yourself in the mirror and ask. "God, if you take me in your arms before the day is done today, will I be able to approach you without shame?" Thinking about it now, for in years past, had I asked myself that question, the answer would have been a resounding "No!" So now I ask, please listen to what I say and learn from my mistakes and pick up the roadmap and follow the path God has laid out for us.
Plant the good seeds of righteousness, and you will harvest a crop of love. Hosea 10:12
Parents, teach your children to do the right thing even if it's painful at the time. Children are faced with peer pressure, to fit in with the popular kids around them. Which path will you decide to follow. One path has all the really cool people you know enjoying every pleasure the world has to offer. The other path is hilly and rough looking, it is a bit hazy but curious. A single light appears far down the road. Remember the road map. Without realizing it at the time, even the smallest, most insignificant decision you make regardless of how insignificant it seems, can and will change everything about your future. We usually say, "Well, hindsight is 20/20, but this is the exact time to think about that decision, not act spontaneously and do what feels good, but learn to follow that "Road Map" so we don't have to repeat that cliché when it's too late. If you stay on the path of the teachings of the scripture, you will find that life, without a doubt, is fun.
It was by faith that Moses, when he grew up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter. He chose to share the oppression of God's people instead of enjoying the fleeting pleasures of sin. Hebrews 11:24-25
One Hundred percent of what parents do and say around their children is absorbed by their innocent young minds and sooner or later what they hear and what they see will be emulated. When this vicarious learning happens, what will you as a parent do or say? Will you try to sweep it under the proverbial rug and teach your child to do the same or will you own up to the error of what you inadvertently taught your child. Whatever happens in the "theater" of life around them intentional or not, the situation becomes real to the child. Knowledge of the scripture is imperative when we are faced with a decision to be made. Our conscience is telling us one thing but by being in the midst of societies pressures we do another. This conscience is God's Holy Spirit whispering to us, telling us to do or say the right thing.
Good judgment wins favor, but the way of the unfaithful leads to their destruction. All who are prudent act with knowledge, but fools expose their folly. A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a trustworthy envoy brings healing. Whoever disregards discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored. Proverbs 13:15-18
We need to understand that the bible is literally a roadmap for living, something I failed miserably at while stepping through the many years of my life. Many of us say "If only we had listened to the wisdom of my parents and learned from other persons mistakes and poor choices." Following well thought out decisions, so long as they follow this "roadmap" given to us free of charge, allows us to progress fruitfully and what we do with our lives will please God. Life will never be without its bumps, bruises and hurts but the bible will show that at our lowest points in life, that is where God will show us His greatest power.
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:11-13