PURPOSEFUL INSTRUCTION
...instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
Ephesians 6:4b (NIV)
Often, as parents, we consider how best to train and develop our children. In some ways, our training and instruction happen based on our own image of how we want our children to turn out. We tend to focus on things like cleanliness, what they eat, what they wear, the hobbies or sports they participate in, how they present themselves, and on and on.
Paul offers specific guidance here that we should be bringing our children up in the Lord's ways. How often, as a parent, are you concerned about the idea of what your child is becoming in the Lord's eyes? How often does His perspective shape your parenting? If your child turned out to be only who the Lord desires for them to be instead of what you want them to be, would you rejoice?
How can we foster this type of purpose in our relationships with our children? I think it begins with becoming the type of person who desires to be the Lord's representative. I believe the Lord wants us to be a model for our children on how to live in that way.
While the things we naturally worry about as parents are important, are we just as concerned about what matters most to God in our children's lives? Learning to walk with Him, finding a community of believers to live alongside, and having their minds renewed by the Spirit of God should be at the top of the priority list.
APPLICATION: Pray and listen for one area that the Lord wants you to focus on with your children or someone else that you can influence. Ask Him what He wants your focus to be.
PRAYER: Father, we need Your help to parent in this world. Help us make sure we prioritize what You prioritize, and help us become the kind of people who bring our children up in the training and instruction of the Lord. Amen.
"… Our Father in heaven…" Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
• What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
"… may your name be kept holy." Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
• What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
"May your Kingdom come soon." Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
• Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
"Give us today the food we need," Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
• Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I'm around today?
"and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us" Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
• Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
"And don’t let us yield to temptation…" Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
• Is there anywhere I'm vulnerable to temptation?