The Bible places a high value on the relationship between children and their parents. Being a good child is more than just obeying rules; it is about honoring, respecting, and loving one’s parents as part of God’s design for the family. The relationship between parents and children is a reflection of our relationship with God.
1. Honoring Your Parents is a Command from God (Exodus 20:12; Ephesians 6:1-3)
(Exodus 20:12) “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”
The command to honor our parents is one of the Ten Commandments and is repeated in the New Testament. It’s the first commandment with a promise: those who honor their parents are promised a long life. Honoring your parents means showing them respect, valuing their role, and acknowledging their wisdom and authority. This honor isn’t just about obedience when you’re young; it continues as you grow into adulthood.
Example: A teenager who doesn’t always agree with their parents still chooses to listen respectfully and seek to understand their perspective. Even when facing peer pressure or different opinions, the teenager recognizes the importance of showing respect and honoring their parents’ guidance.
Application: Honor your parents not just through obedience, but also by respecting their opinions, showing gratitude, and being considerate of their feelings. Even when you disagree or when your parents make mistakes, you can choose to honor them by maintaining a respectful attitude and being willing to listen.
2. Obeying Parents as an Act of Worship (Colossians 3:20; Proverbs 1:8-9)
(Colossians 3:20) “Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.”
Obedience to parents is not just about following rules; it is an act of worship to God. By obeying our parents, we demonstrate our love for God and our trust in His order for family life. This obedience applies especially to younger children and teenagers still under their parents’ care, but it also involves listening to their advice and counsel even as adults.
Example: A child who is asked to help with household chores may not feel like doing them, but they remember that by obeying their parents, they are pleasing God. Rather than complaining, they choose to do their chores cheerfully, knowing that obedience is part of honoring God.
Application: Practice obedience with a willing heart, understanding that your parents’ instructions are often meant for your good. When you follow their guidance, even in small things, you are practicing discipline and humility. Remember that obeying your parents is ultimately about obeying God.
3. Showing Love and Gratitude (1 Corinthians 13:4-7; Proverbs 23:22)
(Proverbs 23:22) “Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.”
A good child expresses love and gratitude towards their parents. Parenting involves sacrifice, care, and guidance, and showing appreciation for those efforts is a biblical principle. Love is more than just words; it is expressed through actions like helping, serving, and being considerate of your parents’ needs. As your parents grow older, this love also extends to caring for them in their later years.
Example: An adult child regularly checks in on their elderly parents, offering help with errands and making sure they feel loved and supported. They take time to express their gratitude for the sacrifices their parents made while raising them.
Application: Express love and gratitude to your parents regularly. This could be through words, thoughtful gestures, or simply spending quality time with them. Even small acts of kindness can communicate your appreciation and deepen your relationship with them. As they age, remember that honoring them may involve supporting them physically, emotionally, and financially.
4. Seeking and Valuing Parental Wisdom (Proverbs 4:1-4; Proverbs 6:20-23)
(Proverbs 4:1) “Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding.”
The Bible repeatedly encourages children to seek the wisdom of their parents. Parents are often a source of guidance, life experience, and godly counsel. Even when we think we know better, Scripture reminds us that there is value in heeding the advice of those who have lived longer and have our best interests at heart.
Example: A young adult considering a major life decision, such as choosing a career or moving to a new city, takes the time to seek their parents’ advice and input. Even if they ultimately make their own decision, they show respect for their parents’ perspective and consider their wisdom.
Application: Seek out your parents’ counsel, especially in major life decisions. Even if you don’t always follow their advice, the act of listening and considering their perspective shows respect. Value their wisdom and life experience, recognizing that God often uses parents to guide us in the right direction.
5. Forgiving and Loving Even Through Challenges (Ephesians 4:32; 1 Corinthians 13:5-7)
(Ephesians 4:32) “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
No family is perfect, and there may be times when you and your parents face conflict or disagreements. The Bible calls us to forgive and love others, including our parents, just as God has forgiven us. Being a good child doesn’t mean everything will always be smooth, but it does mean choosing to approach challenges with love, patience, and grace.
Example: After a heated argument with their parents, a child takes the initiative to apologize and seek reconciliation, even if they feel they were right. They prioritize peace and forgiveness over holding onto resentment.
Application: In moments of conflict or misunderstanding, choose forgiveness and reconciliation. Holding onto grudges or bitterness only harms relationships. Instead, approach your parents with a spirit of humility and love, seeking to maintain peace in your family. Remember, honoring your parents includes being willing to extend grace, just as God has extended grace to you.
Conclusion
Being a good child to your parents, from a biblical perspective, involves honoring them, obeying their guidance, showing love and gratitude, seeking their wisdom, and forgiving through challenges. These principles are rooted in Scripture and are pleasing to God. Whether you are a child, teenager, or adult, the call to honor your parents remains relevant and is an essential part of living out your faith.
By applying these biblical principles, you not only strengthen your relationship with your parents but also reflect God’s love and character in your family. As you strive to be a good child, remember that your actions are a testimony of your faith and an opportunity to bless those who have played a significant role in shaping your life.
Now, Please play the video and let’s pray together
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