“And they were both righteous before God…” (Luke 1:6)
You cannot find a better example in all the Bible of godly parents than Zacharias and Elizabeth, John the Baptist’s parents. Let see what made them such a godly example.
1. THEY HAD A GODLY HERITAGE
(v.5) says Zacharias was a priest “Of the course of Abia” which started in the time of David. And his wife Elizabeth “was of the daughters of Aaron” and of the tribe of Levi. My, what a godly heritage they gave John the Baptist!
You may not have come from a godly heritage, but you can make sure you give your children one.
2. THEY HAD A GODLY TESTIMONY
Not everyone with a godly heritage has a godly testimony. But the Bible says, “They were both righteous.” We all have different gifts and abilities, but we can ALL be righteous.
Next, it says that their righteousness was not just a show before man but it was “before God.” You may appear righteous to others, but God sees the real you!
You will never be the parents God wants you to be without the righteousness of God in your life. Zacharias and Elizabeth had a godly testimony because (v.6) says they were “..walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.”
Where do you think John the Baptist learned to walk with God like he did? From his parents! They taught him by example. What is your example teaching your children?
3. THEY HAD A SERVANT’S HEART
(v.8) says it was while Zacharias did his duty that he heard the good news that he would have a son. If you want special blessings from God, be faithful to your duty. Let your children see you faithfully serving the Lord.
Notice, they had developed these characteristics BEFORE they ever became parents. If you are still single, or are married and do not have children, yet, begin now developing these characteristics in your life so that you can be the godly parents your future children will need.