Proverbs 3:1-2 

My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments,
for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you.

Along with loving, nurturing, and protecting, a parent is a teacher. And teaching is “show and tell.” The old statement, “Do as I say, not as I do,” is as foolish as it is archaic. A life that doesn’t back up words with actions will be seen as hypocritical—rightly so. While no parent is perfect, and some of our actions and words will not always mesh, there must be a pattern of healthy wholeness where action and words are ordinarily aligned. 

When our children hear and see our teaching and adopt the truth as their own, God’s success follows. The challenge with success is not the desire to be successful but the paths we take to reach the desired destination. When we follow God’s instruction, through his strength, we live with his peace. 

Ultimately, success is from God. It is both measured and experienced in our relationship with him. One day all human achievements will be left behind to rot and rust. Lasting success from God will be celebrated throughout eternity. So, parents (and grandparents), we are responsible for teaching—showing and telling how to keep God’s commandments. Only then will God make the way prosperous and grant good success (Joshua 1:8). 

Father, I want to be successful in your eyes. I do not want my life investments to rot and rust. I want you to use me for eternal purposes. Give me the desire to be successful by your strength and in your way.

For Christ’s sake.

Amen.