The Power of Father LoveSample

The Power of Courtesy and Unselfishness

Children emulate what they see on television, in movies, in music videos, and while playing video games. It is difficult to shield them from the way of the world. In fatherly love we must demonstrate a different manner of behavior. Love is not rude or selfish (1Cor.13:5). If we are to love as God loves, we must yield to the Holy Spirit's work in our hearts to conform us to God's Word.

As we have seen many times, a father screamed at the television set using words that would embarrass a drunken sailor. His small toddler became nervous. This father's rude and selfish behavior continued throughout the young child's life, until it no longer visibly upset the boy. That changed the day dad got a call from the school. The boy's foul mouth and brutish conduct had gotten him into trouble, but the child was only using the same language and selfishness he had learned from his father. When the father realized this, he started modifying his conduct by being less rude, crude, and selfish.

Our charge as Christ-followers is to be an example of courteousness to our children, fellow believers, and even strangers. Likewise, when it comes to unselfishness, the person motivated by love does not use his influence in the home, community, or church to personal advantage. He will not advance, enrich, or gratify himself at the expense of others. Rather, in love, he chooses to serve others first and himself last. Watching children observe this way of conduct and will likely copy it.

Ask someone who knows you well whether your behavior reflects God's loving and unselfish character.