There are several ways to parent and there are several styles but I always like to look at raising children based on scripture for the best guidelines on parenting. Here are some that I would like to share.
Guidance
we are meant to direct our children on the right path, to teach them and encourage them to guard their hearts and their minds, who and what they are exposed to. You are not too tough when you tell your children certain things are not good for them.
Scripture Reference:
- Direct your children onto the right path and when they are older they will not leave it. (Pro 22:6)
- The bible also advises “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life” (Pro 4:23)
Discipline
As parents and guardians we are meant to discipline our children. The idea that we should not be allowed to spank our children is not biblical. As with all things moderation is the key, discipline must not turn abusive. Every disciplining act should be with a goal in mind – to develop disciplined children and to teach appropriate behaviors. One of our main goals as parents it to train children to become independent adults. This is one of the ways to ensure that parents in their old ages can sit back and enjoy the fruit of their hard work. An undisciplined unruly child is more likely to grow up into a “delinquent” adult.
Scripture Reference:
- This one scripture for me sums up the discipline argument – Discipline your child while there is hope. Otherwise you will ruin their lives (Pro 19:18)
- A youngsters heart is filled with foolishness, but physical discipline will drive it far away (Pro 22: 15)
- Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them (Pro 13:24)
- People (children) who accept discipline are on the pathway to life, but those who ignore correction will go astray (Pro 10:17)
- Don’t fail to discipline your children. They wont die if you spank them. Physical discipline may well save them from death (Pro 23:13 – 14)
- To discipline a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child. Discipline your children and they will give you peace of mind and will make your heart glad (Pro 29:15, 17)
We do all this so that we don’t have children who grow up into unruly adults.
- A person without self-control is like a city without broken-down walls (Pro 25:28).
Godliness
Every human is made up of mind, soul and body. It is our duty as parents to nourish all the parts in our children. Grounding them in godliness is key to a successful parenting job.
Scripture Reference:
- The father of godly children has cause for joy. What a pleasure to have children who are wise. (Pro 23:24-25)
Wisdom
This is probably the most important ingredient in being a parent and one of the key characteristics every child should seek and grow with. Wisdom is more valuable than logic, brains, strength or wealth alone! Wisdom guarantees a bright future.
Scripture Reference:
- My child eat honey for it is good and the honeycomb is sweet to the taste. In the same way, wisdom is sweet to your soul. If you find it you will have a bright future, and your hopes will not be cut short. (Pro 24:13-14).
- If you become wise you will be the one to benefit. If you scorn wisdom you will be the one to suffer (Pro 9:12)
- Trust in the Lord with all your heart, do not depend on your own understanding, seek his will in all you do and he will show you which path to take (Pro 3:5-6)
- My child don’t lose sight of common sense and discernment (these are byproducts of wisdom). Hang on to them. They will keep you safe on your way and your feet will not stumble. You can go to bed without fear, you will lie down and sleep soundly. You will not be afraid of sudden disaster (Pro 3:21-25)
Giving
Teach children from a young age to understand the importance of giving their best to the Lord. This includes giving from the finances to their talents.
Scripture Reference:
- Honour the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce. (Pro 3:9)
- It is painful to be the parent of a fool, there is no joy for the father (or mother) of a rebel. (Pro 17:21)
We cannot hide behind the excuse that they are just children, while there are some acceptable childish behaviours, some behaviours shows a child who is not properly disciplined and trained.
Even children are known by the way they act, whether their conduct is pure and whether it is right (Pro 20:11)
We have to be able to separate “being a child” from “being a misbehaving child”. If the children don’t learn at home they will surely be taught rudely outside.
So lets’ parent with love and using God’s template as the roadmap.
