How can we apply the example of Shemaiah's sons to our own families? Passing On Courageous Faith 1 Chronicles 26:7: “The sons of Shemaiah: Othni, Rephael, Obed, and Elzabad; his brothers Elihu and Semakiah were valiant men.” Observations from the Text • All six brothers are singled out for courage (“valiant men”). • Their father, Shemaiah, had already been described as a leader among the gatekeepers (v. 6). • The family is united in service at the temple—working together in God’s house, not just individually. Building a Family Culture of Valor • Start with a clear family mission. Joshua 24:15: “As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” Shemaiah’s house served at the temple; decide together what “serving the Lord” looks like in yours. • Model bravery in everyday obedience. Children imitate what they see—Proverbs 20:7. When dads and moms step out in faith, kids learn courage is normal. • Celebrate spiritual victories. When one family member trusts God, recognize it like Israel honored the mighty men (cf. 2 Samuel 23). Training the Next Generation of Gatekeepers • Teach Scripture daily—Deuteronomy 6:6-7. Gatekeepers knew God’s law; we equip children by opening the Word at the table, in the car, at bedtime. • Give real responsibility. Shemaiah’s sons guarded gates; let children lead prayers, plan family giving, or spearhead ministry projects. Responsibility grows valor. • Correct lovingly but firmly. Ephesians 6:4 warns against provoking children; discipline that points back to Christ secures the gates of their hearts. Cultivating Sibling Unity • Serve together. Joint projects—visiting shut-ins, cleaning the church—bond siblings like temple duty bonded Shemaiah’s sons. • Speak honor. Romans 12:10: “Outdo one another in showing honor.” Encourage siblings to call out each other’s strengths rather than compete. • Resolve conflict quickly. Matthew 5:23-24 ― guard the “gates” of relationship so bitterness never gains entrance. Valiant Men—and Women—of Prayer • Pray names aloud. Call each child by name before God (Job 1:5). Shemaiah’s sons are recorded forever; our prayers etch names in eternity. • Intercede for courage. Acts 4:29-31 shows boldness comes when believers ask for it. Pray children will stand strong at school, online, and in future callings. The Reward of Faithful Parenting • Psalm 112:1-2: “Blessed is the man who fears the LORD… His descendants will be mighty in the land.” • 3 John 4: “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” When kids grow into “valiant” adults, the joy far outweighs the effort. Takeaway Follow Shemaiah’s pattern: live brave faith, involve the whole household in God’s service, and watch the Lord forge sons and daughters who guard the gates of His kingdom with courage and unity. |
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