Children

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Scripture Passage: Ephesians 6:1-3

“James!” mom yelled from the hallway, “Please go clean your room. It looks like a tornado passed through there, and then I’d like for you to take the trash out for me please!”

“But I don’t feel like it,” James moaned as he continued to play his video game.

“You were supposed to clean your room yesterday, and you know it’s your responsibility to empty the trash,” mom sternly responded.

James screwed up his face, as he mumbled under his breath, “It’s not fair. I have to do everything around here.”

“I heard that James,” mom replied.

“Ok, ok I’ll do it,” he groaned, as he made his way into his room.

When dad got home that afternoon, mom had a quick talk with him about James’ constant complaining that day. “Let’s teach him a little lesson,” responded dad.

Later that evening, James walked into the kitchen, “Hi mom, what’s for dinner? I’m starved.”

Mom, folding her arms, sat down at the kitchen table, “I don’t feel like making dinner tonight. I have to make dinner every night,” she responded wearily.

“What?” James said confused, “you always make dinner for us and you’ve never complained before.”

“I know, but I’ve been thinking, it’s just not fair that I have to make dinner every night,” she complained, “maybe I’ll get to it tomorrow.”

Confused and upset, James slumped into a nearby chair.

Dad came and sat next to him, “You know James, mom said you’ve been doing a lot of complaining today when she’s asked you to help out around the house.”

James sheepishly looked up, “I guess so. It’s just I didn’t feel like it.”

“What if all mom did were complain about her responsibility in taking care of our family because she did not feel like it? You would not be taken care of, and we wouldn’t get those wonderful meals she prepares every night,” dad said as he looked over at mom with a smile.

James nodded as he sorrowfully glanced over at his mom, “I’m sorry mom. Will you forgive me for complaining about my chores?”

“Of course,” she said with a smile.

“Does this mean you will be making dinner?” he asked cautiously.

“Absolutely not!” said mom, “dad ordered pizza!”

They all laughed.

HOW ABOUT YOU?
How do you respond when mom or dad ask you to help around the house?

Do you complain like James? Do you obey the first time you are asked?

The Bible is clear about not only obeying our parents but obeying with a good attitude. When we respond positively to their requests, it pleases not only them, but it also pleases God.

TODAY’S KEY VERSE:
Do all things without complaining and disputing, Philippians 2:14

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