Mike Smith:
Our final principle this week is to complete the work that we start. This principle reminds of me of the two sons found in Matthew 21. A father asked his sons to work in the vineyard; the first son said no, but then he changed his mind and went. The second son said he would go, but he did not keep his word. In this parable, Jesus compares the second to chief priests and elders who had knowledge of God and the Bible but rejected Jesus.

There is a temptation to give up when situations become difficult. But as believers we are salt and light in this world and people are looking to us to see if we finish what we start, especially when the times are hard.

As we encourage our children to follow these rules, we have to recognize that these are only goals and none of us are perfect. Our children will not be able to carry out these rules all the time.

But as we direct our children towards successful lives after high school and college, we have a responsibility to teach them how to interact with other people, and to be mindful of others by using manners.

I’m convinced that if we practice the four simple principles I presented this week—to say please and thank you, be on time, keep your word, and complete what you start—we will see that even something as small as manners can make a profound difference in your life and your children’s life. Thank you for joining me this week. And until next time, I’m Mike Smith.