Too many times as adults we feel entitled to do the things we tell our children not to do. Have you ever heard somebody say to their child "Do as I say, not as I do?" Well that's a hypocrite! The dictionary defines a hypocrite as a person who pretends to have virtues, moral or religious beliefs, principles, etc., that he or she does not actually possess, especially a person whose actions belie stated beliefs. Hmmm, is that how we want our children and others to perceive us, as people whose words don't reflect the way we live? That's how I used to live, but that's not how I want to live now.
When I was growing up, drinking, cussing, and partying were all part of the weekend scene. My family didn't take me to church unless somebody died or got married so I wasn't aware of any other lifestyle. Not to say that my family didn't do good things or love me, they loved me like crazy, they just didn't go to church or talk about God and so I carried on that tradition with my life and in turn passed it on to my own children.
As Christians, we sometimes get caught up in what's right for our children and what's right for us, you know as "Adults". The last time I checked, Jesus never said "Everybody over the age of 18 is completely exempt from all my commandments. Go ahead and live your life for you!" If you tell your children not to cuss, then you don't cuss. If you tell them don't drink, then you don't drink. And for goodness sake don't tell your kids to not have sex outside of marriage and then go do it yourselves! Outside of marriage, there should not be any kind of sexual immorality. This is what Paul says in 1 Corinthians 5:9-11 (NLT) says "When I wrote to you before, I told you not to associate with people who indulge in sexual sin. But I wasn't talking about unbelievers who indulge in sexual sin, or who are greedy or are swindlers or idol worshipers. You would have to leave this world to avoid people like that. What I meant was that you are not to associate with anyone who claims to be a Christian yet indulges in sexual sin, or is greedy, or worships idols, or is abusive, or a drunkard, or a swindler. Don't even eat with such people."
What if Jesus had said do as I say not as I do? What if he hung out at the local tavern getting drunk and coersing with prostitutes? Do you think the disciples would have followed Him and believed the things He said? Don't set a double standard for your life. Live like God wants you to. And when in doubt....get your Bible out! It is our way to live handbook you know!
Think about it!
Get your mirror out today and look at yourself and ask "Am I a hypocrite?" What are some things that you can do to change those habits? With God's help we can do some pretty amazing things. Set the standard high for your Christian walk and watch how the world, and your children, react.
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