What things do we need to teach our children in order that they might turn out well? Psalms 119:9 said it all: “How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to Your [God’s] word.” As parents we are to teach our children to live according to God’s word. Over the next several weeks I would like share what the Bible tells us, concerning teaching our children well.
Number one: Teach your children to fear the Lord.”The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.”- Proverbs 9:10. In the same book God advised: “The fear of the LORD leads to life: Then one rests content, untouched by trouble.”-Proverbs 19:23. This does not mean to be terrified of Him, but rather to give Him reverence, respect and honor, to be in awe of His mighty works and His righteous judgment. A wise son or daughter is one who fears the Lord and turns away from evil. Teach your children to fear the Lord.
Number two: Teach your children to obey. You need to expect your children to obey at an early age. Disobedience must be met with an immediate consequence. Correct your son, and he will give you comfort; He will also delight your soul.”- Proverbs 29:17. If you do not teach your children to obey when they are young, they will not obey you, or anyone else when they are old. This does not mean that you are a tyrant, but rather you set reasonable and consistent boundaries. “My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the LORD disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.” –Proverbs 3:11-12. If you truly love your children, you will teach them to obey.
Number three: Guard their hearts. “My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to a man’s whole body. Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” –Proverbs 4:20-23. The heart refers to the mind and it is the seat of emotion. We need to watch over the hearts and minds of our children protecting their innocence. This does not mean to shelter them, but rather protect them. No parent would send their child out into a busy street without teaching them how to cross. This is what we do when we fail to watch over what our children see and do. We need to instruct them in God’s truth; plant His word in their heart so they can veer away from evil, and navigate around temptation and things that are destructive. – Psalm 119:11.
Raising children is very tough in today’s world, but we have the assurance that God’s word is relevant and sufficient for every age. In it we find all that we need to train up our children in the way that they should go. Parents, you are the key to raising children who fear the Lord.
If you would like to know more, call us at 425-432-0634 or at www.taylorcreekchurch.org. We would love to talk with you, pray for you and help you discover God’s truth and hope for life. You can also join us on Sundays. Our service times are 9 a.m. for Sunday school and 10:15 a.m. for worship. We are located at 21110 244thAve. S.E. Maple Valley WA
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