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Rick’s 31-Day Devotions
When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways (1 Corinthians 13:11).
Your ministry doesn’t begin when you move out of your childhood home or start your own life. It begins now, within your family. Loving others as Christ loves you includes the individuals closest to you, like your siblings and parents. As a child, you primarily received care from your parents or guardians.
But as you grow, your role within the family shifts. Maturing spiritually means stepping into a caregiver’s role, not only physically but also spiritually.
Honoring your parents includes offering biblical care. This expectation might involve encouragement or correction, depending on the situation. Some people wrongly believe that correcting their parents is unloving, but the opposite is true. Lovingly pointing out a wayward path can be one of the most honoring and loving things you can do for anyone, including your parents.
Remember, discipleship isn’t about criticism but care. When you lovingly correct or encourage your parents, you mirror God’s love and care for you. This worldview is part of living out the gospel in your home.
Let’s live boldly, embracing our calling to disciple and honor our parents in Christ-like love.
Rick launched the Life Over Coffee global training network in 2008 to bring hope and help for you and others by creating resources that spark conversations for transformation. His primary responsibilities are resource creation and leadership development, which he does through speaking, writing, podcasting, and educating.
In 1990 he earned a BA in Theology and, in 1991, a BS in Education. In 1993, he received his ordination into Christian ministry, and in 2000 he graduated with an MA in Counseling from The Master’s University. In 2006 he was recognized as a Fellow of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC).