Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- May 1, 2012
“Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” Ephesians 6:4
It can be exasperating to parent with calm consistency and effectiveness. However, one thing is true: training and instructing a child in the Lord extinguishes exasperation. Godly guidelines give a gullible heart security and a sense of loving protection. A little one’s innocence tarnishes into guilty pleasures when discipline is withheld or ignored. Thus, a wise parent defines clear standards so their expectations bring joy not sadness.
We need boundaries in our behavior as parents so we model humility and wisdom for our children. Indeed, we contribute to a tranquil home culture when we practice, “Do as I say and follow what I do.” Parenting with grace and truth flows from our character and conduct. We confess our angry reaction and ask forgiveness from our son or daughter. We keep our commitments, tell the truth, listen well, love liberally, and obey God.
“We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.” Hebrews 6:12
What does it look like to train and instruct your child in the Lord? It begins with teaching the tension of fearing and loving the Lord simultaneously. One motivates behavior out of respect—the other out of affection. The fear of the Lord reminds us of the consequences of sin, while loving God invites intimacy. The first is the beginning of wisdom and the latter initiates a relationship. Indeed, our view of God becomes our pattern for parenting.
The way you relate to your heavenly Father is how you expect your children to relate to you. Thus: no talking back, no disrespect, disobedience, or dishonesty. You reward a compliant attitude, hard work, instant obedience, and a humble heart. Exasperation exists in a leadership vacuum, but when you step up to serve your family, faith flourishes. Loving accountability causes some angst in the beginning, but reaps peace in the end.
“Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” Deuteronomy 6:5-7
Prayer: Lord, what area of my life needs consistency, so that I can parent better?
Related Readings: Genesis 18:19; Proverbs 22:6; 2 Thessalonians 3:9; Hebrews 13:7
Post/Tweet this today: Our view of God becomes our pattern for parenting. http://bit.ly/K3yHQg #parenting #God
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This was awesome!! We have a Bible study at our school for parents every Tuesday morning, and this is what it was on!! We have an awesome God!! Thank You for sharing the Love of Christ with all of us!! God Bless!