Dad’s 9 Rules for Living

Bible Bites

Frank Walton
06/15/14 - Bulletin

Written on the occasion of his daughter’s high school graduation.

Put God First. We exist for His glory and then to enjoy being with Him forever (1 John 1:3). “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Proverbs 9:10).
Follow Jesus Daily. He became as we are, in order to make us as He is (1 John 2:6). “I am the way, and the truth, and the life, no one comes to the Father but through Me” (John 14:6).
Study the Bible Regularly. Scripture is God’s one and only guidebook to eternity (Acts 20:32). “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105).
Pray Constantly. It keeps us close to heaven’s pure air for our souls (Romans 12:12). “Let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).
Think Hopefully. Our lives are what our thoughts make them (Proverbs 17:22). “Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life” (Proverbs 4:23).
Improve Yourself Consistently. With God’s help, you can make the best of any situation (Philippians 4:13). “Press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14).
Do the Right Thing Always. Character is the sum of all our choices (Proverbs 27:19). “The path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, that shines brighter and brighter until the full day” (Proverbs 4:18).
Treat Others Lovingly. God put us on earth to help lift others up to heaven (Matthew 7:12). “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father Who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
Be a Faithful Member of Christ’s Church. Jesus is counting on you to carry on His work by exercising your talents in His one body (Ephesians 4:16). “Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Revelation 2:10).

— In Biblical Insights, August 2008