Articles
Can We Talk?
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.”
(Eph. 6:1)
Parents have a difficult task, a reality which goes without saying. When a child is brought forth into this life, there are many expectations placed upon the parents. Likewise, children have a responsibility in the relationship. It is heartbreaking to see and hear of situations that arise where there are fractures in the family unit. One can only wonder if a willingness to follow the guidance of the Scriptures could have prevented such heartache. It is said that there is no handbook for parenting; however, this leads to the assumption that parents make up things as they go. Certain aspects of parenting should never have this line of thinking. The Bible provides sufficient instruction for fathers and mothers to guide them in the path of being godly parents. Furthermore, Scripture gives adequate direction for a child to have a respectful relationship with their parents.
One of the key failures leading to the breakdown of the family is the neglect of proper communication between parents and children. Relegating parental communication obligations to individuals outside the home can cause serious consequences. For instance, the subjects of adolescence, reproductive development, and intimacy should NOT fall into the hands of others. Parents and children need to be able to engage in these difficult discussions. Imagine the amount of suffering that may be appeased if a son or daughter receives the proper life instructions.
It is true that not every scenario that will surface in a child’s life has a direct correlation in Scripture. However, there are general principles of how to handle life’s challenges. Solomon wrote extensively of general truths to guide parents and children. To name a few: “Hear, my son, your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching…” (Prov. 1:8) “Train up a child in the way he should go, even when grows older he will not abandon it” (Prov. 22:6). “Correct your son, and he will give you comfort; he will also delight your soul” (Prov. 29:17).
Not every home has the presence of both parents. This brings additional burdens upon the parent as well as the child. One would hope and pray that godly counsel would be sought in the situation of a single-parent household. There is the adage, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Hopefully, the father or mother has an abundance of faithful Christians that can provide sound biblical guidance. One that seeks counsel from brethren that have faithful children, without a doubt, makes good sense.
Some people have not experienced the love of a father or mother. If someone hears of a Heavenly Father that desires a relationship, then it may sound too good to be true. Consider for a moment the love demonstrated by Jesus towards children. While others would try to hinder them from being brought to Him for blessing, He had the little ones come to His loving arms (cf. Mk. 10:13ff). This is a perfect illustration of how God the Father wants all to be drawn to Him. Additionally, think of the Prodigal Son (cf. Lk. 15:11ff), where the father, in reality, is God in this scenario and comes running to receive his once lost child. How beautiful this describes the love that the Father has for a child that returns home into the loving arms of God.
Parents may not have every answer and will struggle in rearing their children. They should have confidence in the promise of the Lord that He will provide wisdom and guidance to those that ask with the right spirit (cf. Jas. 1:5ff). There is already enough suffering in this world, and we must do whatever we can to nurture each new generation in the counsel of the Lord. Godly influences are a prized possession—a rare commodity. Let us strive to guide parents as they have such a crucial task in rearing their children.
Take time to encourage parents and show your care for their children.
