We are living in challenging times where children, teenagers, and young adults face constant temptations from the enemy of our souls. This adversary works in various ways, enticing our children to indulge in the “pleasures” of sin through numerous influences. Our kids and youth are immersed in a world of influencers who often undermine ethical and moral values. However, as responsible adults, it falls upon us to guide, educate, and protect this new generation. We must be examples of righteousness, love, and understanding, showing them the path of truth and goodness.
The Role of Parents in Nurturing Faith
It’s essential to engage in open, judgment-free dialogue to understand their struggles and challenges, offering unwavering support and firm guidance. Together, we can strengthen family bonds and create a safe, welcoming environment where the light of hope and love prevails over the shadows of temptation. Raising children may be considered a “difficult” challenge, but it is fundamentally important. Educating a child in today’s world is no small task! Through divine wisdom, we can find valuable guidance to help us raise our children, teaching them that correction is an essential part of their lives. Let’s begin by reflecting on this timeless truth:
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6)
Building a Foundation from Childhood
A key aspect to emphasize is the need to educate our children from an early age, as the knowledge they gain in childhood will stay with them into adulthood. In this context, parents have the duty and responsibility to dedicate themselves to teaching and disciplining their children in a way that pleases God. Another critical point is that we, as parents, must invest time in teaching our children how to draw near to God. Yes, instilling spiritual values and encouraging a connection with God from a young age is vital for their development. Moreover, demonstrating love, compassion, and empathy through our actions reinforces these bonds. By sharing these teachings, we help build a solid foundation of values that will guide them throughout their lives. Never underestimate the power of your example and the importance of nurturing spirituality within the family.
The Meaning of Instruction
To “instruct” in Hebrew implies dedication. When we commit to teaching, we are also committing to learning. It’s an act of sharing knowledge and experiences, guiding and inspiring those eager to grow. In Hebrew, this dedication to instruction is cherished as a way to enrich not only the mind but also the soul. Thus, when we instruct, we’re not merely passing on information—we’re fostering a deep sense of connection and mutual growth. May we always approach learning and teaching with love and wisdom.
Guiding Children Toward God’s Word
We must teach our children to read God’s Word, as promoting biblical teaching at home is crucial to bringing them closer to God. The unity and support of our children in their relationship with God will shield them from the world’s evil influences. By teaching them the importance of a direct connection with God, we strengthen them against negative pressures. It’s not enough to simply take our children to church or tell them Jesus is good—they need to learn how to seek an intimate relationship with Him.
From childhood, it’s vital that kids understand God’s love and pursue meaningful spiritual experiences. Consider the story of Samuel, who, as a young boy, didn’t fully grasp God’s will for his life because he still needed guidance:
“The Lord called, ‘Samuel! Samuel!’ And he answered, ‘Here I am.’ He ran to Eli and said, ‘Here I am, for you called me.’ But Eli said, ‘I didn’t call; go back and lie down.’ So he went and lay down. Again the Lord called, ‘Samuel!’ And Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, ‘Here I am, for you called me.’ But Eli said, ‘I didn’t call, my son; go back and lie down.’ Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, and the word of the Lord had not yet been revealed to him. The Lord called Samuel a third time, and he got up and went to Eli and said, ‘Here I am, for you called me.’” (1 Samuel 3:4-10)
Learning to Hear God’s Voice
From these verses, we see the importance of guiding children toward God. Samuel didn’t yet understand because God’s Word hadn’t been revealed to him. The Bible recounts that Eli, with his experience and understanding, instructed Samuel on how to respond, realizing it was God speaking:
“Then Eli realized that the Lord was calling the boy. So Eli said to Samuel, ‘Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.”’ So Samuel went and lay down in his place. The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, ‘Samuel! Samuel!’ Then Samuel said, ‘Speak, for your servant is listening.’” (1 Samuel 3:8-10)
Samuel only understood that God was speaking to him once he was taught. Likewise, our children will draw near to God only when we show them the way.
The Role of Correction in Raising Children
When and How Should Correction Happen?
Correction should occur whenever necessary, in a constructive and respectful manner. It’s important to address situations at the right time and with sensitivity, always aiming for the well-being of everyone involved. Clear and empathetic communication is key to ensuring correction is effective and fosters mutual growth. Mistakes are human, and correction is part of the ongoing process of development and improvement.
Proverbs teaches that a parent who truly loves their child corrects them early:
“Whoever spares the rod hates their child, but the one who loves their child is careful to discipline them.” (Proverbs 13:24)
The Word of God instructs parents to discipline their children firmly from childhood. When they are young, correction through discipline is appropriate; as they grow, communication becomes essential, as neglecting this can lead to serious consequences. Physical discipline may be used in cases of deliberate disobedience or when a child challenges parental authority:
“Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far away.” (Proverbs 22:15)
Balancing Correction with Love
When parents apply correction appropriately, it should be marked by wisdom, love, and balance. This helps children understand that inappropriate behavior leads to unpleasant consequences, sometimes even punishment. Parents must stay attentive to their children’s behavior, seeking positive correction methods that promote healthy growth. Punishments should be proportional to the offense, always aiming for learning and strengthening the loving bond between parent and child. Open communication and dialogue are vital allies in this process:
“The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to itself brings shame to its mother.” (Proverbs 29:15)
This verse underscores the importance of teaching children the right path. Correction and discipline are essential to prevent them from making poor choices and following harmful paths that could lead to ruin or even death. We must correct them now, while there’s still time.
The Promise of Correction
There’s a promise for those who correct their children today:
“Discipline your child, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire.” (Proverbs 29:17)
A child who isn’t corrected will surely bring shame to their parents later, potentially leading to disastrous consequences for the family and themselves. Lack of correction will harm our children. Sometimes, a simple word suffices for correction; other times, words paired with the “rod” of discipline—physical punishment—may be necessary. However, correction must always be rooted in love, patience, and understanding. Children need to see that correction aims to teach and guide, not to humiliate or harm. Dialogue is crucial for mutual understanding and ensuring kids feel safe to express their emotions and thoughts.
Leading by Example
Parents must also be models of conduct and respect, as children learn far more from what they see than what they hear. Correction should be fair and balanced, considering each child’s individuality. When applying discipline, provide a clear explanation so the child understands the reason for the consequence and what’s expected of them. The goal of this explanation is to encourage reflection on their behavior and how it affects themselves and others. By explaining calmly and assertively, we teach children to handle challenges positively, fostering their emotional and behavioral growth. Open, empathetic communication strengthens the trust between parents and children, building a healthy, harmonious relationship.
God’s Discipline as a Model
God teaches that He corrects us too, out of love:
“For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens every son whom he receives.” (Hebrews 12:6)
He guides us through paths of learning and growth, showing that divine correction is an act of care. Similarly, we should view correction as an opportunity for growth and refinement, strengthening our faith in His greater plan:
“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” (Hebrews 12:11)
These verses offer valuable insights: we are corrected because God, our Father, loves us, and as good parents, we must correct our children out of love. Though correction may bring temporary sadness, it yields positive fruit—life itself.
Consistency in Discipline
Consistency is key in correction. For example, if a child pulls the tablecloth and the parent warns that a repeat will bring discipline, that discipline must follow if the action occurs again. Without follow-through, the child may assume there are no real consequences. Parents must be consistent in their actions and enforce established consequences for misbehavior. This shows children that their parents’ words carry weight and that rules must be respected, fostering responsibility and adherence to boundaries.
Teaching God’s Commandments
We must teach our children to follow God’s commandments to steer them away from sin and evil:
“My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you.” (Proverbs 2:1)
God teaches that by keeping His Word in our minds and hearts, we learn to live wisely and righteously with Him. Our children will turn from sin by treasuring God’s commandments in their hearts and letting Christ’s Word dwell in them, as the Apostle Paul writes:
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)
Each commandment is a lamp for our steps, guiding us even in the toughest situations:
“My son, keep your father’s command and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. Bind them always on your heart; fasten them around your neck. When you walk, they will guide you; when you sleep, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you. For this command is a lamp, this teaching is a light, and correction and instruction are the way to life.” (Proverbs 6:20-23)
Discipline as a Path to Life
When we maintain discipline, we follow the path to life. Sadly, many children, teens, and young adults without proper discipline fail to thrive today. Discipline acts as a guide, helping us achieve our goals with consistency, focus, and determination—traits essential for facing life’s challenges. By instilling discipline, we invest in our children’s growth and development.
Blessing Our Children
Bless your children at every opportunity. The Bible teaches that children are blessings from the Lord:
“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.” (Psalm 127:3)
Reflect for a moment—how many times today have you blessed your child? Children are precious gifts, bringing joy, lessons, and unconditional love. Amid life’s busyness, we may forget to pause and truly appreciate this blessing. Why not take this moment to consider small and big ways to bless your child daily? Whether through a warm hug, encouraging words, shared moments, or simply showing unconditional love, every act of care strengthens your bond. Always express your love and gratitude for having them in your life.
The Power of Blessing
Our words have the power to bless or curse. Thus, it’s vital to bless our children and speak blessings over their lives, so they may be favored by God. In summary, everything we’ve learned is of utmost importance, and parents must commit to raising their children. Don’t wait for society or the church to step in—God expects us to take responsibility for their upbringing. As noted earlier, children are divine gifts. Pause and reflect on how you’re caring for these treasures God has entrusted to you.
Entrusting Our Children to God
Entrust your children to God’s care, bless them continually, prophesy over their lives, guide them to follow the Lord’s path, teach them to feel His presence, instill His commandments, and prepare them for the purpose God has for them. Even today, God uses children, teens, and young adults. He desires to use your child, but you must guide them to draw near to Him and depend on the Lord.
Has this message inspired you? Share it with friends, leave a comment, and may God bless your life.
