Share and Share Alike - Devotional Day 12 - October 2

Sorry I missed yesterday! I was busy making homemade applesauce and apple crisp.

Scripture: Hebrews 13:16 - Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrific es God is pleased.

"From the time they are toddlers, we nag our children to share....Before they even have a chance to fully appreciate the fleeting "Mine" stage, we are already on them to share and take turns." I remember always being told to share and be nice. We learn alot from our kiddos as we go through the "Mine" and "Share" stages. The best example of this happened just a few days ago. Jamion had on a toy cat watch and CJ was playing with a yo-yo and toy disc thrower.

Jamion: CJ, can I play with the yo-yo?
CJ: No, I playing with it.
Jamion: CJ, you need to share.
CJ: Okay. You get the yo-yo, but I want the cat.
Jamion: No! You don't get the watch. It's mine and you can't have it. Now share the yo-yo with me.
CJ: NO!
Josh: Jamion, do you think it's fair for you to tell CJ to share when you won't share with him?
Jamion: Yeah. It's not nice. He needs to share.
Josh: Well, don't you think it's mean of you to not share?
Jamion: I guess.
CJ: Can I have a doughnut?

Isn't it amazing how much we can learn from our kids? "Just like love, forgiveness, and a sense of humor - you have to know you have it for yourself before you can freely give it away....need to see us sharing things not only with them but with our friends, our spouses, and our extended families. We typically grow up to treat others the way we have been treated."

We all want our kiddos (and all people) to share and share alike. However, the means by which we teach our children to share is in our hands. "Acting out the lesson of sharing as a parent is far better than nagging." What a concept for us to be on their level and share with them and others. It's a great reminder for adults on a lesson we sometimes forget.

"Let's be mindful today of our treatment of others." As the Golden Rule states: "Do unto others what you would have them do unto you." Luke 6:31