“Children, obey your parents in the Lord; for this is right. Honor thy father and mother: (which is the first commandment with promise;) That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.” Eph. 6:1-3
Is it just me or have you also noticed how disrespectful kids are to authority (especially their parents) these days? Many parents laugh because in this disrespect, the offender is so adorable, that it is hard for parents stay angry. The problem is: Letting children get away with being disrespectful to authority does not do THEM any service. By ignoring this problem, parents are not investing in their children’s future. (Imagine a thirty year old trying to get by with the same distasteful behavior!) The same situation does not look so adorable anymore! We see how quickly life goes by, and in a “minute” those bad attitudes that were never addressed or adjusted will be the very habits that will either create a life that is happy and successful or bitter and entitled. According to Eph. 6 1-3, if you love your children and want to see them live a long life, you will invest in their obedience. It is better for them to fear the wrath of mom and dad and not run into the street than to have them get away with murder. That could be the very thing that will cut their lives (and happiness) short. Doing the right thing is never easy, (and is usually is not fun) but in the end, everyone gets a return on that kind of investment. I believe our children’s futures are worth it. Do you?
“Dear Heavenly Father,
I love my kids. In fact, I love them so much it hurts to discipline them. Maybe it is because I never saw a healthy example of discipline growing up. I realize now that by avoiding this, I am actually damning my own children and their future. I want the best for them and their future, not to do what is easiest for me now. Help me to discipline them in love, never in anger. Help me to be consistent, so they know my word is my honor. This will show them how to be honorable citizens by example. I am giving my children back to you. You blessed me with the ability to have them in the first place, and I know if I follow your authority on how to handle them, their lives will be better for it. Thank you for the wisdom of your word. Lead me to the scriptures that will help me be the best parent I can be for them, and for you. In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.”