Teaching faithfulness at the kitchen table

Children take careful note of their parents' motives and actions. And faithful parents find ways to bless their children, whether young or old. There's a wonderful Psalm that helps us as parents to find ways to talk to our children and grandchildren, helping them to form the values necessary to govern their thoughts, dreams, actions, and destiny. Simply read the summary I've given for each verse and think how your talk around the family table can be used to nudge the conversation toward meaningful dialogue. You may not be able to get through all of Psalm 78 easily, but here's a start!

(I chose this picture to remind us that previous generations have obeyed the instructions listed below, and that's how we got to where we are today!) 

1. PRIVILEGES

I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden from of old-things we have heard and known, things our fathers have told us. verses 2,3

2.PROMISES

We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done. He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our forefathers to teach their children. verses 4,5

3.PURPOSES

So the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they, in turn, would tell their children. verse 6

4.POSSIBILITIES

Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands. verse 7.