The Apple Does Not Fall Far from the Tree
The apple does not fall far from the tree in orchards. The same is often true for children.
When children act like their parents, we might say the apple does not fall far from the tree.
We all learn from the people closest to us.
- Parents
- Guardians
- Other relatives
They teach us how to:
- Walk
- Talk
- Live
One of the scariest statements a child can make is, “When I grow up, I want to be just like you.” That should make us pay attention to our words, actions, and attitudes.
The apple does not fall from the tree does not always apply.
Children do not always look or act like their parents. Sometimes that is the children’s choice. They may:
- Rebel against positive examples.
- Rise above negative examples.
We cannot change our biological roots. We can change our behavior.
May we all learn and live well.
No one, including the best parent, is perfect. Therefore, we want to follow the one and only perfect example we find in Jesus.
When we root ourselves in Jesus’ love, we gain the best life now plus an eternity with Him in heaven. We also bear fruit by sharing Jesus’ love with the rest of the world.
“This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples” (John 15:8 NIV).
Thanks to Thad Reames for the suggestion. Image by Manfred Richter from Pixabay.
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8 thoughts on “The Apple Does Not Fall Far from the Tree”
Absolutely, Diana! We can’t choose our family of origin, but we can always choose to follow Jesus’ example and teachings.
Blessings!
I’m so thankful for a great family and an even greater Savior, Martha. Have a wonderful week.
I like this, Diana: “We want to follow the one and only perfect example we have in Jesus.” It also reminds me of the verse, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
Thank you, Tracy. That’s a wonderful verse for both parents and parent figures. I pray you are feeling better. Blessings.
Keep our eyes on You, Lord! Thank you, Diana, for this timely reminder!
Amen to your prayer, Kim. Thank you for your encouragement. Blessings.
I’ve noticed the fulfillment of this “saying” in my family, church, and community. As you point out, this can be positive (when children pick up good traits from their parents) or not so good when children rebel against the loving discipline of their parents. Alternatively, we’re sometimes thankful when children strive not to follow some of the negative traits of their parents. Thank you, Diane, for another informative and wise message.
Katherine, thank you for your kind words and for your encouragement of young people (and everyone) to be their best selves.