A Family Rule

Our scripture for today is Genesis 2:24

“A man shall leave his father and his mother, and be joined to his wife; and they shall become one flesh.”

If you ever played sports, you will know that the first rule is “Be prepared.” When you are in the outfield, you have to know what you are going to do even before the ball is hit to you. That rule has applications for real life. Maybe by reading this story, you will be ready when faced with a similar situation. 

One day I came home from the office and my two teenage girls met me a the car. They felt for sure that Momma had wronged them. Liz was a gentle saint who lived like one. It had to be significant for the girls to both be upset. We went up to the bedroom and I started to listen, They began talking at the same time. I stopped them and said, “One at a time girls.” They stopped and so I continued, “Each of you tell me what mother did and then I will go down and listen to what your mother says. After I have heard all sides,” I told them. “I will then side with your mother.” 

They were shocked. What is the point in telling the story since I already decided I was going to take their mother’s side? I explained my rationale to them, “One day you are going to leave me and go start a family of your own. When you do I will be here with your mother. I am not going to mess my life up with her, just to take your side right now.” 

I still think that is one of the wisest decisions I ever made. To be fair, if Liz had really been awful, she and I would have figured that out and I would have urged her to correct it, but the kids didn’t need to know that. That was between her and the girls.

Keep that arrow in your quiver. You will need it someday.

Lonnie Davis