What do your kids see when they look at you?
Another way to ask that is—what do they see you doing?
In this world of turmoil, do you stand for something?
Are you a champion of a cause, a defender of others? Or maybe you counsel those in need or pour your money into a worthy cause?
Some say that men of integrity have a responsibility to society to build up those less fortunate—to shape others who are struggling. Is that true?
As we try to balance time at work with family time and an occasional hobby, are we expected to leave those pursuits to invest our lives in others?
It’s appropriate to ask the question—what are our passions in life?
Is there something important enough to commit to? Important enough to make it reality?
The demands on us are huge, but as men and women of God, we can make a difference in the lives of others. That difference may determine whether or not they remain married—whether they overcome adversity or succumb to it. It may even determine whether or not they follow God or—where they spend eternity.
My beautiful wife, Gwen believed in investing in others. She committed herself to making life better for countless other women. She mentored, supported, coached and taught them to enjoy their children, husbands and lives.
Although she realized the value of praying for people in need, she understood that it was nearly as important to give them her time.
As we go on missions to Africa, there are times when we are criticized for not just sending money directly to those in need. But when we are there, ministering to the people in the villages, the most important thing to them is that we came.
There is no doubt about it—what is needed more than anything is our willingness to invest our time. And if you are anything like me, you realize it’s much easier to give money than it is to give the precious commodity of time.
Acts 20:35 states,
In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
The final part of this verse is familiar to us, and has even been used in the secular world. But have we given it the recognition it deserves?
As leaders, we are privileged to have a positive influence on society. The luxury of sitting on the sidelines while others do the work is not ours to enjoy. Instead God has honored us by charging us to help those in need.
Stand for something important—show your kids that your passions in life are for the right things—the things of God. Show them that your actions speak louder than your words.
Warning: Following God is not for cowards.
What do you feel God is calling you to do? Comment below—I would appreciate your thoughts.