Today my oldest daughter started a summer babysitting job. She woke up early, had breakfast, had her time in God's Word, and got herself readied for the day ahead. She was anxious and excited, but ready for the responsibility - and the money it will bring. :) She's always taken delight in being around small children and I am amazed that God has allowed this opportunity at such a young age for her - she's not quite 12. The job is only two days a week. She will spend one day babysitting in our home and one day in the home of the children she's watching. It will allow her to gain experience under my care and also venture a little on her own.

Last night we talked about how she might prepare herself for this and how she would be able to be an example to these children. She was apprehensive about having to possibly get on to them in any way, fearing that they would think she was mean. We discussed positive, not negative, ways to encourage them, if need be. Over the course of the summer, she will gain invaluable experience in leading others and being an influence on them.

This morning in my own study, I read through 1 Peter 5. Even though Peter was talking to elders and young men I found it applicable to me, as well. He challenged them to be shepherd's of God's flock, willing, not greedy, and eager to serve. Then in verse 3, he encourages them to be examples to the flock. There is, perhaps, nothing better we can do for someone in our care than to be examples to them - living our lives in a way that is ultimately pleasing to the Lord and encourages them to do the same.

This struck me deeply. The example of our life serves to encourage others more than anything. My daughter has a wonderful opportunity to be a godly example in front of two little ones all summer. Even more of a lesson to me was the fact that I have an awesome opportunity to be an example to those in MY care...my "flock".....namely, my children....everyday. My words are empty if I am not living them out. It does no good to preach and teach and admonish if I'm not living the life of Christ in front of them.

I will admit that this doesn't always come easy for me. My words and my actions don't always match up. I often tell my children to be kind to one another, and then I am anything but kind. I tell them, as we are instructed in God's Word, to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry - yet I have a quick fuse. We memorize verses about trusting in the Lord, but perhaps they see me become anxious and worried. However, I am learning and being transformed just like them. Each day I recognize even more the need to be a living example - full of love and mercy and grace. Words are important. Conversations are necessary. But living examples are key.

My mother told me only a few times with words that I should to get up and have a quiet time in God's Word each day. She taught me with her life to do this because I watched her do it. She worked in a factory for over forty years - having to be at work early everyday. Everyday I saw her opened bible and knew that she'd met with the Lord and spent time with Him. Her living example was huge.

Living examples aren't transferred overnight. Often the transfer takes place over years...with much time and diligence and purpose and prayer....like water on a rock.....