FIRST THINGS FIRST- MOTHER'S DAY

“First Things First”
Mother’s Day Lessons from Rebekah
Genesis 27:1-25
RATS- Biblical Parenting

I. REMEMBER
a. You are only a trustee of your child.
i. Children have a special place in God’s heart. (Mark 10:14)
1. 14When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.
2. God wants parents to know and recognize that each child should be loved and valued.
3. To Whom Much is Given, Much is Expected
b. Each child is special and God has a plan for them.
i. Genesis 25- 28 Isaac, who had a taste for wild game, loved Esau, but Rebekah loved Jacob.
1. 1 Corinthians 12- The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ.
2. Psalm 139- For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.
3. 11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29)
II. ACT as CHRIST- Be a Godly Example
a. 1 Thess. 2- 11For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.
b. Deuteronomy 4- 9 Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.
c. 1 Corinthians 11- 1Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.
III. TRAIN in Righteousness
a. Many parents desire the best for their children. However, many times their desire for the best can create the worst.
i. God’s word teaches that we need to be focused on the right process and then He is responsible for the right outcome.
1. Proverbs 22:6- Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.
2. Philippians 1:6- he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
ii. How do we train?
1. Study the Bible with your children/pray with your children.
2. SHARE your trials and failures.
IV. SURRENDER
a. Jacob and Esau’s relationship was strained and he spent many years away working for Laban- but he returned home to his foundation.
i. God allowed him to grow up.
1. The Prodigal Son
2. 8 The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me (Psalm 138)
3. Romans 8:28- 28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,[a] who[b] have been called according to his purpose.
4. God wrestled with him.
V. REPENT – Start Over