Christly Living
THE INTENTIONAL PARENT II
Memorise:
Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul. .. Proverbs 29:17
Read:
Psalm 1:1-6
Message
Yesterday, I mentioned that God expects parents to train their children in His way. I also discussed how being filled with God's word is the first step in training children in the way of the Lord. Today, I will discuss some other steps that must be taken to train children in the way of the Lord.
It is important for parents to act in a godly manner at all times. Children usually copy what they see others do, especially their parents. If a child's parents are filled with the word of God, it becomes easier for the child to become interested in God's word. Parents who pray regularly and always ask their children to join them are creating the right environment for their children to build the capacity to pray as well. Whenever I went to visit my children while they were in school, I would often go on walks with them. On those walks, I would remind them of God's word and pray with them. At every opportunity I had, I ensured that I taught them the word of God and how to apply it across all spheres of life. This is why, today, as adults, they are fully committed to serving God.
When parents teach their children in the way of the Lord, they will have rest, as today's memory verse tells us. However, when they fail to model the right way for their children to live, they shouldn't be surprised when they lead sinful lives. Sadly, the ungodly lifestyles of some parents discourage their children from serving God.
Parents should also intentionally shape the lives of their children by praying for them regularly. They should confess God's word over their lives at all times and refrain from pronouncing negative words over them, especially when they are angry. The tongue is very powerful and holds the power of life and death (Proverbs 18:21).
The best time to start teaching children in the way of the Lord is when they are toddlers, so that it will be engrafted in their spirits as they grow. Even when they become adults, parents should ensure that they continually remind them of God's word and pronounce it over their lives. They are to teach their children the word of God at all times (Deuteronomy 6:6-9).
Beloved, God wants His children to have peace in their old age. This is why He wants parents to train their children in the right way so they can give them rest in their old age.
Bible In One Year:
Judges 9-10
Hymn:
I Want To Be Like Jesus
Reflection:
Are you modelling the right behaviour to the children around you?
I want to be like Jesus