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<Previous Message Next Message> Thursday, April 30, 2015 ![]() Shock's Mill Bridge over Susquehanna River Click on photo for large view "Godly Parents - An Endangered Species"
![]() "Bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4). Yesterday afternoon we took a five mile walk along the Susquehanna River. The walking trail passes the stately bridge presented in our lead photo. ![]() When we hear the term "endangered species" we may immediately think of the bald eagle. The bald eagle was declared endangered in 1967 and extensive efforts were taken to protect it which have been very successful. In 2007 the bald eagle was removed from the federal endangered species list. Now we have nests up and down the Susquehanna River and many other places in America. It sure is nice to see the progress made in saving the Bald Eagle but during this time something else needs to be placed on the endangered list. I saw a bumper sticker that stated "Godly parents – An Endangered Species". I can't speak for the situation all over the world but I suspect it's pretty similar to the conditions here in America everywhere. We see so much evidence of this but this week many of us have been following the events in Baltimore, a city some 60 miles south of us. Although commentators differ on solutions based on their political and ideological persuasions all agree that the breakdown of the family is a major contributor. I strongly agree with one's comment that government cannot fix this chaotic mess but families need a much greater role in the "faith community". Faith community is the politically preferred phrase for "church". This weekend Ester was scheduled to attend "Acquire the Fire", a conference in a church near the area where the rioting has taken place. But it, like many other events including the major baseball games were cancelled (the game took place yesterday but no fans allowed in the stadium - a 1st in history). We think of the restraining influence of these churches and God-fearing inner city pastors. Thank the Lord for inner city parents who resolve, against the forceful tide of mocking unbelief, to live by God's pattern. I recently spoke to a young man in his early 30's who lives in this kind of setting but is seeking to be a good husband, father, and role-model. But there is a decreasing number who make their priority in life that of bringing up children in "the training and instruction of the Lord" which is at the heart of raising godly children and being godly parents. Indeed there is an urgent need for godly parents, who will take the responsibility of raising their children according to Biblical standards. It requires sacrifice and perseverance and at times it seems no fruit comes from our labor. But, Parents & Grandparents, hold onto God's Word and this reassuring promise through the apostle Paul "that our labor in the Lord is not in vain" (1 Corinthians 15:58). Be encouraged today, Stephen & Brooksyne Weber ![]() A walk along the Susquehanna River ![]() The river trail is a recent project we have enjoyed for several years. Previously, this railroad bridge had stopped the trail but they made this interesting walkway under the bridge right near the Susquehanna River, a portion we walked for the first time yesterday. ![]() Many beautiful wild flowers along the Susquehanna River trail. ![]() A secluded farm along the peaceful river trail. ![]() We stopped by yesterday to see our Amish friends, parents of nine children, who run the Creekside Greenhouse. Wonderful to see the older kids helping out. Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources An interesting plaque about bald eagles we saw along the trail. Among other factoids is that an eagle nest can weigh more than 2 tons! "Find Your Wings" Video Mark Harris A powerful song for godly parents using an analogy from an eagle (or other bird) raising their young "Learn To Let Go" Video Mark Schultz "Train Up A Child" Video Rob Frazier "Family Bible" Video Dailey and Vincent To receive the "Daily Encouragement" each Monday-Friday through email see this page to subscribe to our email list. You can also subscribe to the Wordpress rss feed or through a Wordpress email subscription. (See the email subscription on the right side after opening this page.) ![]() Permissions: Please feel free to pass on, reproduce and distribute any material on Daily Encouragement Net, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this material, not protect or restrict it. I do request that you keep the contact, copyright and subscription information intact. 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Through God's Son Jesus Christ I have been redeemed and make it my life's goal to please the Lord. My mission in life is to honor God through my faith and obedience and prepare myself and all whom I may influence for eternity." © Copyright 2015 Stephen C. Weber - All Rights Reserved Daily Encouragement Net - 495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552 USA |