20. Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. 21. Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.
The verses this week speak on children and fathers, however, we can include mothers as well. The relationship and responsibilities we have as parents are the next most important after God and our spouse. Children are a gift from the Lord.
Parenting and growing up in most homes are filled with some failures and successes. We all wish we could have done it better. We all fall short of what God intended.
I am very proud of my sons and how they have developed into adulthood. Certainly, I want to control their lives and have them do everything I think they should do, but that is not my role any more nor would it be a good idea. God has made them far differently than me and has given gifts and abilities and will continue to work in their lives in the years ahead if He so allows.
In the 70’s I read most of the books written by Charlie Shedd, who was the James Dobson of that day. I have quoted from his book, “Promises to Peter.” Let me summarize his quote.
He started as a single man doing a seminar entitled, "How to Raise Your Children." Then he got married and changed the title of his seminar to "Suggestions for Parents." Not very long after that, his first child came along, and he changed the title to "Feeble Hints for Fellow Strugglers." Then he had his third child, and he completely gave up doing the lecture.
Many of us can identify with that. Perhaps you're like that lady who got on the bus with five children. The bus driver said, "Are these all your kids, or are you just going to a picnic?" She said, "Sir, these are all my kids, and this ain't no picnic."
Ps 127:3-5 “Sons are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one's youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their enemies in the gate.”
No one lives in a perfect environment with perfect people. Jesus was also raised by sinners in a fallen world. It is in those relationships that we see the grace of God and learn how to live after picking ourselves up (or having God pick you up) and go on from there. Forgiving and being forgiven are important steps in all family relationships.
Not everyone is meant to be a parent and some shouldn’t be, but my life is fuller and richer because I am a parent. God used my sons and foster daughters to mature my faith, humble me, and make me pray lots more that I might otherwise. Now for ten years I’ve had the privilege of being a grandfather. Anyone, single or married, with or without children, can develop healthy relationships with children that are to enhance and bless each other by God’s grace.
Application: Seek to apply love and forgiveness in your family relationships.
Prayer: Lord, I know these children and grandchildren are really yours. Guide me as I love them in You.
