It Starts Small

²¹ Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.

Colossians 3:21

Children have a sacred duty to honor and obey their parents. In turn, parents carry the profound responsibility to guide their children in the divine ways of God.

⁴ Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.

Ephesians 6:4

Here, a crucial warning resonates for fathers. Fathers may unintentionally exasperate their children. They often adopt a stricter approach. This is compared to the gentle and gracious nature of mothers. The heart of effective parenting lies deep within your child’s soul. The attitude of the child’s heart far outweighs mere external compliance. A child who grows up harboring surliness and bitterness towards their parents and their faith will inevitably flee from the church when they come of age. This happens because they obey solely out of fear of punishment. So, how can parents passionately nurture and guide the hearts of their children?

• Embrace reason and don’t simply brush off your kids’ requests; every “no” should have meaning.
• Be more than just an authority figure; be your kids’ friend! If your interactions revolve solely around rules or punishment, it’s time for a change. Let your children feel the deep love and care you have for them. Show that they are unique individuals, not mere objects of control.
• Pray fervently for your children, and make it a beautiful ritual to pray together.
• When your children ask questions about the Bible or life, answer them with depth and kindness. Don’t see their curiosity as an interruption.
• Place your family at the top of your priorities; they deserve your undivided attention over work.
• Be the shining example for your children; embody the values you want them to embrace.
• When disciplinary moments arise, approach them with love, never anger. Keep your voice calm—there’s power in gentle words.
• Immerse yourself in joy. Embark on adventures with your children. Make your home a sanctuary of happiness. It should be a place they never want to leave.
• Seek to understand your child’s actions, delving deep into the emotions that guide them.
• Let Scripture illuminate your child’s perspective on the world.
• Live Deuteronomy 6 by discussing the wonders of God in everyday life. Do this no matter where you are.

Above are just a few powerful ways to deeply connect with your children’s hearts and enrich your relationship with them. Do you have any more inspiring ideas to share?

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Discussion Question:

•  What does this verse show fathers they should be focused on?

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