Now What?

One of the most influential teachers in my life was “Gunny Smith.” I met him one beautiful, sunny fall evening in Newport, RI. He stood as straight and rigid as the flag pole beside him. As new Navy Chaplains, we had no idea about what to expect. But, one look at his crisp uniform, brightly shined shoes, short hair and steady gaze left no doubt in our minds that what we expected didn’t matter. Our lives were in his hands. He knew it. We would soon believe it.

With an obvious confidence in his voice, he said, “Gentlemen, I will soon become the most loved and feared person you will ever meet.” He lived up to that statement. He was responsible to teach us how to live as officers in the Navy and how to survive in combat if necessary. He took his responsibilities seriously.

Solomon took his responsibilities as a father seriously, too. He warned his son to “continually bind God’s laws around his heart, tie them around his neck... so when you walk, they will guide you, when you sleep they will watch over you, and when you awake they will speak to you.” In other words, wherever he was, no matter the circumstances, whether night or day, “His law” would be a lamp and a light always, and, when necessary, correct and discipline him.

“Gunny” and Solomon knew and accepted their responsibilities whole heartedly. They were well aware of the fact that lives depended on their effectiveness to shape the conduct and attitude of the “untrained.” 

Prayer:  We pray, Father, that parents will not fail You in their duty to train “Your” children to obey You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today:  Proverbs 6:23 For this command is a lamp, this teaching is a light,and correction and instruction are the way to life,