This past Sunday I had the opportunity to preach. Continuing with the series Discount Devotion, we looked at what it means to be a fully devoted family. Breaking the sermon down into two different perspectives; The Child's and the Parents'.
With the Child's perspective we looked into 1 Timothy 4:12. Laying the foundation for the youth by showing them they can be an example to Christians despite their age. That they can be an example with their speech, conduct, love, faith and purity. Don't speak with disrespect, show everyone kindness and goodness, be open about your faith. They not only can be examples to the people around them but also to their families. But how?
We look at Ephesians 6:1-3 and break it down as this.
1. Children should obey their parents because they love God.
2. Children should honor their parents. Which means having respect, gratitude, and taking care of their needs when they get older.
3. Not only because it is right but because God desires children to obey and honor.
Now the Parents perspective.
Continuing to Ephesians 6:4, focusing on the difference between Provoking/Punishment versus Discipline/Instruction. The first focuses on forcing obedience while the latter promotes heart change.
Parents play a crucial and God ordained role in the life of your children. To disciple them in the instruction and teaching of the Lord. Understand you cannot, and this applies to everyone, cannot disciple someone farther than you where you are. So if your relationship with Christ is lacking, you cannot expect your children to get any farther than you. That means you don't have to be perfect, but you do have to make an effort especially in your relationship with God.
Children should be an example to others, and don't let their age be a crutch.
Parents should be open with their mistakes, open with their faith. Be the example they want their children to reflect.
Finally, remember we are all God's kids. We don't have to go at it alone, we can ask God for help and to guide us to the next step.