Today, we’re digging into the 5th commandment in our services: “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land of the Lord your God is giving you” (Ex. 20:12).
The Apostle Paul repeats this challenge to kids in his letters to the Ephesians and Philippians: “OBEY your parents…” (Eph 6:1; Col 3:20).
Obedience is doing as you’re told. That’s hard work, especially since we all want to do as we please – kids and adults alike.
Parenting kids to obey is equally hard work. How often do we let teachable moments slide and not call out disobedience?
But it’s worth the battle to patiently and lovingly train kids to obey. Not because you need to win or be stronger than your kid.
It’s worth it because…
Obedience Leads to Great Relationships.
You’re giving your kid a skill he or she needs to serve their spouse (Eph 5:21).
You’re equipping them to honor their employer and hold down a job.
You’re helping them model the attitude it takes to please and love the Lord.
Jesus said in John 14:21, “Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me.”
The richest relationship on earth you can have is with the Creator and obedience is key to showing you love Him.
So resist the urge to let the disobedience slide.
Gently and lovingly lead you kids to obey for their very best life. And always teach and train as Ephesians 6:4 continues: “Fathers, do not exasperate your children, instead bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”
Ben Framstad
