PARENTS & CHILDREN (Pt.2)

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by David G. Rose

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Last week we discussed Biblical parenting. Jesus said in Matthew 19:14 NLT, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.” The challenge for parents in 2023 is to not just allow their children to find Jesus, but to be a facilitator or expediter in their lives to become Christ followers. 

The question this week: What must a parent do to pass on Godly values to the Next Generation? Parents want their children to know family hobbies or ancestral recipes. Some parents even lead their children to share their political persuasions and social concerns. But isn’t Christianity even more important than cooking Grandma’s green beans?

In the book of Ruth, we read a beautiful story about loyalty, devotion, and faithfulness. In this anointed story, we learn much about marriage and family relationships. But the overall truth to see is that being grounded in a deep relationship with God holds the family together. 

Naomi was a forceful figure in Biblical history. She and Elimelech immigrated to Judah from Moab due to a severe drought. Their two sons married heathen women and apparently left the faith. But one married Ruth. After the sons died, Ruth built a strong attachment to Naomi and then with God. It has been said that Ruth chose Naomi’s God because she had already chosen Naomi.

Here are some things a parent do to pass on Godly values to the Next Generation:

1. The parents faith must be alive - To convey the importance of God, there is nothing better than the personal factor. Children MUST see in their parents that God is the top priority in their lives. Children know if the faith of the parents of real and authentic. If children see faith alive in Mom and Dad, they are much more likely to accept and follow Christ.

However, please note that Naomi’s two sons did not follow after God. So, yes, it is possible to be raised in a Godly home and still go astray. Each individual makes their own choices. Sad, but true.

Where does faith begin? It begins with a desire. It does not start in arguments or debates. Fussing with your children over their mistakes and childish passions does not lead to starting a desire in their hearts. Debates just stiffens their angry resolve and prolongs goodness. 

Parents must pray that the Holy Spirit will awaken their child’s desire to find Jesus. That is why sowing th seeds of the Scripture in their souls while they are very young is so important. Then, you can pray that those righteous seeds will germinate and grow into a blossoming Christin life. Children watch their parents and observe their actions during times of stress, crisis, turmoil, and illness. During those chaotic times, you are teaching how faith governs in your life. 

Parents, have your children been impressed with your example? Do they want to serve the Jesus you serve?

Next week: Parents must have a deep compassion for God.