Introduction: The Privilege of Raising Godly Children:
We've been given a tremendous blessing from God—our children.
Proverbs 22:6 tells us: _"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
This is more than a suggestion; it's a command. God has entrusted us with the hearts and minds of our children, and what a privilege that is!
Allow me to tell a story. I am aware of families that approached this duty with great seriousness. Since their children were born, they prioritized reading the Bible together, praying together, and discussing the Lord in all aspects of life. Despite facing challenges, the children maintained a strong connection to their faith as they matured. The solid foundation established by their parents kept them firm amidst the world's pressures.
Point: God gave all Parents the privilege of shaping their children's hearts with His truth. It's not a responsibility we can or should give away to anyone else.
The Rebuke: What We've Allowed to Happen:
However, we must confront the harsh reality at present. Numerous Christian parents have delegated this responsibility bestowed by God to public schools and establishments that frequently endorse values that contradict God's teachings.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 says, _"These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children…"
God's command is clear: we must diligently teach our children His Word. It's not something that can be outsourced. Ephesians 6:4 adds, _"Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord."_
Many Christian parents have become complacent in allowing public schools to influence their children's beliefs, relying on Sunday school or youth groups to supplement their education. Another concerning scenario is when parents are so preoccupied with their own lives that they entrust the public education system to educate their children comprehensively. Consequently, the children start embracing the secular perspectives of their teachers. Only when these parents eventually become aware of this situation do they realize their children have strayed from the values they intended to impart. Instead of instilling God's teachings, the world's values have taken root in their children's minds.
Point: By trusting public schools with the training of our children, we've given away what God entrusted to us. "We've allowed the world to rob us" of the privilege and responsibility to train our children in the way they should go.
Hope and Change: It's Not Too Late!
But here's the good news—it's not too late! We serve a God of redemption. Joel 2:25 promises us, _"I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten…" It's never too late to reclaim what's been lost. Isaiah 54:13 adds, "The Lord will teach all your children, and great will be their peace."
Allow me to tell you a heartwarming tale. I am acquainted with a family who acknowledged their error in allowing public schools to influence their children's values. Rather than surrendering, they decided to take back the role of being their children's main spiritual guides. They initiated this change gradually—introducing family devotions, engaging in faith discussions during meals, and actively participating in their church community. The outcome was remarkable: their children started to develop spiritually. They began to inquire and display a heightened curiosity about the teachings of God, and their faith took on a more personal significance.
Point: There is still time for every family to transform. With God's help, your children's hearts can be saved, and what was lost can be recovered. However, this transformation hinges on a choice made by you, the parent.
Practical Steps Forward: Reclaiming What's Yours:
Here are some practical steps you can take today to reclaim your role in your children's spiritual development:
1. Recommit to being the primary Spiritual teacher of your child.
Start with daily Bible readings, prayer, and discussing how God's Word applies to everyday life. It doesn't have to be complicated—just consistent.
2. Monitor what your children are learning in school.
Ask them questions, engage them in conversations about what they're hearing, and teach them how to evaluate everything against the truth of Scripture.
3. Consider alternatives.
If it's possible for your family, explore homeschooling or Christian schools. If that's not an option, be proactive about supplementing their education with strong Biblical teaching at home.
4. Involve your church.
Make sure your children are involved in Bible studies, youth groups, and church activities, where they can be surrounded by Godly influences.
Encouragement and Closing: You Are Not Alone in This!
God has not left you alone in this task. Joshua 24:15 says, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Parents, when you commit to training your children in God's ways, you are impacting generations to come. The seeds you plant today will bear fruit tomorrow. And God promises to give you wisdom and strength every step of the way.
Prayer of Repentance and Recommitment:
Let's pray together.
Heavenly Father, we come before You today with humble hearts. Forgive us, Lord, for we have neglected our responsibility to train our children in Your ways. We repent of any complacency or distraction that has kept us from being the spiritual leaders You've called us to be. Lord, give us the wisdom and strength to reclaim this sacred role. We ask for Your guidance and courage to step up and lead our children in Your truth. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Altar Call: Recommitment to Christ:
Parents, if you feel the Lord calling you to recommit to training your children, I invite you to the altar. Come forward and declare before God that you will take back the responsibility of raising your children in His ways.
For those who feel they've drifted from the faith, this is your time to recommit to Christ.
Sinner's Prayer:
If there is anyone here today who has never given their life to Christ, pray this with me:
"Heavenly Father, I know that I am a sinner, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son, who died for my sins and rose from the dead. I turn from my sins and invite You into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow You as my Lord and Savior. Amen."
Final Charge:
As I finish and post this on Facebook today, I want to encourage you: your children's future is worth fighting for. God has equipped you for this task, and He will walk with you every step of the way. He has called you, He will sustain you, and He will bless your efforts as you train your children in His ways.
---
Comments