The other day we were watching a kid’s movie and with our two children, Ty and Lexi. They actually had lost interest in the storyline and I think my wife, Leah, was the only one still paying attention to it. Out of nowhere, someone in the movie said, “What the h***?” Without missing a beat, Lexi repeated this phrase very loudly for the entire family to hear. At first, I didn’t know what to do. We are usually very careful about what we watch on TV or in movies, so I’m pretty sure she had never heard this phrase before, unless Leah says it secretly when I am not at home. Our kids are still in the innocent age and think bad words are “stupid” or anything added to the word “stupid” such as “head” or “face.” Probably the only reason she repeated it was because it was said with such emphasis. Likewise, whatever is emphasized in my life will certainly be repeated in theirs. As a parent, I have a huge responsibility to guard what I say and do around my kids. In fact, as a Christian I have an incredible obligation to protect my words and actions so that I am not fearful if others repeat what they have seen in me.
There are too many times I have made decisions without taking into consideration how it will affect others. I realize that there is also an extreme to this and I cannot live my whole life in response to what others may do; however, I do believe we must consider how our lifestyle can influence others. On the positive side, our words and actions can influence others to walk in the right way – God’s way. When others see you forgiving, accepting, serving, and encouraging maybe they will follow your example. As you follow Christ, may others follow you.
