“Lord, the Lord Almighty, may those who hope in you not be disgraced because of me; God of Israel, may those who seek you not be put to shame because of me.” (Psalm 69:6, NIV)
As children of God, we represent the “family name.”
All that some people know of God — particularly those who do not know God — is what they see of God in us; and what they hear of God from us. For this reason, it should be our ambition to grow to maturity in the grace and knowledge of God.
Today’s psalm is attributed to David, of whom it was written that he was “a man after God’s own heart.” (1 Samuel 13:14)
David didn’t always live up to his potential as a warrior (although he was a peerless warrior); as a king (although he was a great king); as a father, or as a husband. However, when David failed he didn’t make excuses for his failures. He fought to regain sight of God’s standard, turned his heart toward the Lord, and owned-up to whatever personal sacrifices and behavior changes he needed to return to fellowship with his Creator.
David knew, as we should know, that we are always under observation. When our children watch us, as they do, what do they see? When our co-workers watch us, as they will, what do they see? When our casual acquaintances think of us, as they shall, does integrity, self-control, fairness, gentleness, patience, peace, faithfulness, and love come to mind?
The world watches the children of God. Does what they see of us; and what they hear from us speak well of our family name? – Luther
