Whatever is Noble

"Finally brothers....whatever is noble....think about these things." Philippians 4:8

The word "noble" here means "worthy of respect, reputable, dignified, awe-inspiring qualities that invite and attract." It is only used four times in the Bible. Once here, and three other mentions in Timothy and Titus, referring to what kind of character deacons and their wives should have and how older men should be taught to behave. (Titus 2:2, 1 Timothy 3)

What does it mean to value things that are worthy of respect? I really believe that as adults, we are often very de-sensitized in this area. I don't know about you, but we've had quite a bit of discussion around our house this week about the upcoming holiday. We like to steer pretty clear of it around here. It didn't used to be an issue with the kids. When they were really little, they were naturally afraid to go to Wal-mart because of the creepy things all over the store. Now, they aren't really concerned about what it all means, as long as they get candy. Bill and I have prayed and prayed over how to disciple our kids this week and what we should do to help their spirits be re-sensitized to the Holy. But then I have to ask myself, "What do I know of Holy?"

With your kids: Just tonight I was Facebook chatting back and forth with a friend who has a precious, three year old little girl. She had taken her daughter to the store this week, and was guiding her to put her little cart away, when suddenly her daughter became afraid, burrying her face in mom's leg, and saying, "No, yucky!" It boiled down to a questionable character at the ATM that sparked fear in her. My friend was wise to swoop up her daughter and hurry to the car where they prayed for Jesus to take the yuckies away!

I have observed (and I'm sure you have too) that young children are very sensitive to the spiritual side of the world around them. I've learned not to ignore that in my kids. Sometimes are kids are afraid for a reason, and we would be wise to not down play their sensitivities. We work hard to teach them to stay under the protection of our authority, and we should also encourage their desire to be under the protection of the Lord by running from evil. Make sense?

O God, bring us mamas to our knees today with a glimpse of your holiness. Cause us to guide our children towards the knowledge of the Holy.