Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:6
Parents, this exhortation is aimed at you.
The foundation for childrearing is a firm reliance on God’s covenant promises. This is no different from anything else you do. Christ is the foundation. The answer is not to work harder and then hope to God for the results. No, first trust God for the results and then work hard. Your faith in God’s promises is what drives you to work hard.
Faith is what teaches you that on a Thursday evening when you are worn out from the week. Those minutes you spend patiently admonishing your son will have generational impact. As RC Sproul would say, “right now counts for eternity.” God promises you results for your faithfulness today. Belief in this promise should fuel every minute of training with your kids.
So, what is the practical application of this? Parents, never miss an opportunity for training. When your 3-year-old has a bad attitude. Your response should be joy because God has given you a training opportunity. Thank Him for it and get to work. Your kids will sin, they will sin a lot, and that is no time to panic. When your kids sin while you are right there to correct them, you should thank God, and correct them in joyful obedience.
This principle applies the same when your kids sin or misbehave in public. Don’t turn a blind eye and hope no one noticed. No – God has once again given you an opportunity. He planned this situation. And so, do you trust Him? Then stop whatever you are doing, stop the conversation, get up from the table, and go correct your child. Do not let the fear of man, what we call embarrassment, keep you from your responsibilities.
But the embarrassment should remind you to prepare your kids better next time. If they’ve never been in that situation before, think about what temptations they will have. And then talk about it and practice ahead of time. For example, your first grade son will be playing capture the flag with his class at school. Talk to him about how he plays with girls. Tackling the enemy may be a great move to win the game, but that is not how you treat a lady.
Zach Browning – March 24, 2024
