Texts:Ephesians 6:4; Colossians 3:21
True life, both physical and spiritual, emanate from the home and from such homes there is peace and encouragement. If it becomes painful and discouraging then the home is not worth living at all. In the family there are duties for every member. None of the members should sit aloof or hang on the balance. The parents are examples to their children, in conduct and caring far above their jobs and profession, ministry in the church or social standing. It is the responsibility of the parents to give their children the upbringing that prepares them for lives pleasing to God. It is the family, not the church or school that is primarily responsible. The above will not be possible unless the parents are living as Christians and not as warring factions, enemies or cohabitants.
Their basic duties to their children are as follows:-
1. Teach: The very core of Christian nature is:this: “The heart of the father must be turned to the heart of the child in other to bring the heart of the child to the heart of the Savior (Mal. 4:6). Teach the children to obey using bible principles (Dt. 8:5; Pr. 3:11-12; 23:13-14). Show that God is always observing and evaluating them (Ps. 139:1-12). make it clear that God loves them and has specific purpose for their lives (Lk. 1:13-17; Rom. 8:30; I Pet. 1:3-9)..
2. Protect: From ungodly influences, world and Satan, immoral companions (Pr. 13:20; I Jn. 5:15-17). help them understand what it means to fear God and turn away from sin, love righteousness and hate evil.
3. Establish: Establish your children and family in a biblical and spiritual church where God’s word is proclaimed, His righteous standard honored and the Holy Spirit manifested (Ps. 119:63; Acts 12:5). Prepare them to suffer and endure persecution because of righteousness (Mt. 5:10-12), They must know that all that will live godly in Christ Jesus must suffer persecution (II Tim 3:12)
4. Encourage: Children must be encouraged to remain separated from the world and to witness and work for God (II Cor. 6:14-7:1). They should be helped to understand that they are strangers and aliens on this earth (Heb. 11:13-16), .to remember that our real home is in heaven (Phil. 3:20). Lift them up to God by constant and earnest intercession (Eph. 6:18, Jas. 5:16-18; Jn. 17:1). If this is followed by the parents then the children will have a family that they will cherish and love that will stay their hearts.
Fellowship Hymn
In the Hollow Of His Hands (HSCF 130) & Leaning On the Everlasting Arms (150)