Welcome back to the third part of our sermon on "How to raise your children biblically in a secular world." In the previous two parts, we discussed the importance of instilling biblical values in our children and teaching them to discern between good and evil. Today, we will explore another crucial aspect of raising our children biblically, which is the role of discipline.
The Bible teaches us that discipline is an essential part of raising children. Proverbs 22:6 says, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it." This means we must teach our children right from wrong, (based on Biblical Principles, not Secular teachings that change constantly), and establish clear boundaries they must follow.
Discipline does not mean punishment; instead, it is a form of training. Hebrews 12:11 says, "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those trained by it." When we discipline our children, we teach them to be responsible for their actions and make better future choices.
One of the most important things to remember when disciplining our children is to do so with love and patience. Ephesians 6:4 says, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord."
We should not discipline our children out of anger or frustration but rather out of love and a desire to see them grow and mature in Christ.
Discipline should also be consistent and appropriate for the situation. Proverbs 13:24 says, "Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them."
This does not mean we should physically harm our children, but rather that we need to use appropriate forms of discipline that will help them understand the consequences of their actions.
In addition to discipline, teaching our children to obey and respect authority is essential. Romans 13:1 says, "Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established." This means we must teach our children to respect and obey authority at home, school, or society.
As parents, we are called to be examples to our children. Proverbs 22:6 says, "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it." We need to model the behavior we want to see in our children and be consistent in our actions.
In conclusion, raising our children Biblically in a secular world requires discipline, love, patience, and consistency. We must teach our children right from wrong, establish clear boundaries, and use appropriate forms of punishment when necessary.
We also need to teach our children to respect and obey authority and be examples to them in our actions. May God grant us the wisdom and strength to raise our children in a way that honors Him.
Amen.