DISCIPLINE: OBEDIENCE, LIFESTYLE AND COMMON SENSE

Ephesians 6:1 - 4

The apostle Paul who, as far as is known, never married, obviously had no children of his own to rear. However, having been educated in the Law of Moses at the feet of Gamaliel, the authority on the Law of Moses, Paul was acquainted with every detail of child rearing as covered in the Law. And from this knowledge he gained a Godly understanding of how a functional family should behave in the parent - child relationship.

Paul's instruction to children: " If you have Godly parents, leading you in a Godly way, honor them with your fullest obedience. This is the right way - the ideal way, as well as the way to keep you out of trouble! God promises you a long life!" The sharpest barb so far is in verse one, and it is directed to the parents - not the children, is ". . . in the Lord!" It is not likely that a child is going to give full, true obedience to ungodly parents. Nor is it likely that ungodly parents are capable of presenting their lives before their children in a manner that secures their respect and obedience. The latter kind of relationship between parents and children quickly establishes divisions and builds resentment into the child's personality. What may be even worse often occurs when one parent is Godly and the other isn't. The children are undeservingly pulled between the parents, their minds are filled with doubts and fears, rebellion or withdrawal is probable. There must be a growing, healthy, earned respect between parents and children.

Prayer: Father, what an awesome responsibility we have in building a relationship with our children that fosters respectful obedience. Give us your grace and wisdom to accomplish this, and reward us with children of great character. . . . and 'let us not be weary in well doing.' Amen.

Bob Storie, Chaplain, OSH