One of many great examples in the Bible is Mordecai’s care for Esther. The Bible says Esther was “without father or mother.” Reading the Book of Esther, one can see his great love for her, and for God; a love that he taught her.
We don’t know how young Mordecai was. Jewish tradition says Esther’s father died, then her mother died in childbirth. That latter happened quite often then. So, he may have been quite young; perhaps your age. Even if he was older, others have taken on the responsibility of being spiritual leader for someone at a young age.
If there is only a mother/grandmother/aunt/whomever in charge of your home, it is probably very stressful for her. She may complain because there is too little money, or maybe she had a rough day at work. Or, many other reasons. Whatever it is, if she is not taking the spiritual lead, it is because she feels unable to cope with the challenge. Not all mothers are like this, of course. However, some turn to other things to fill holes in their hearts instead of trusting in God.
If your mother is not taking the lead, you should offer a tender ear for her. Explain that you are going to take the lead in following Christ, and in teaching any younger siblings about God, and His love for them. And, that you will try to be an example of Christ by being a shoulder to cry on for her, just like you are for younger ones.
We’ll talk later about interferences. However, most often, the problem will be one where she feels overwhelmed, and will be very thankful. After a while, she may take your lead if you gently guide her. Remember, she might be one of those mentioned above who is reading and just got saved or just rededicated her life.
Just remember – you are on the same side in this spiritual warfare.
We’ll talk a lot about spiritual warfare later. For now, look at Ephesians 6:12. This verse is saying that we are not fighting flesh and blood. Our battle is against the forces of darkness that rule this world. So, people should be on the same side.
Sadly, they don't always act like it.
