In the Old Testament we read about the wickedness of the priest Eli’s sons. Samuel, who was also raised under Eli’s care had sons who were disobedient to God as well. Is our child training directly related to the outcome our children have in life? Certainly, they have free will just like all of us, and like all of us, can reject the truth and walk contrary to it. What if however, we were diligent in training them from a young age to show respect to God and everyone else and have self-restraint? I think that is most defiantly the better way and is our charge from God as parents. 

Malachi chapter two verse fifteen states that the very reason for marriage is to raise Godly offspring. This is a great charge given to us as parents and is rarely easy to follow through with. Isn’t God worth our very best efforts though? Isn’t raising our children in the fear and admonition of the Lord better than making sure they have everything they want and keeping them entertained? Dear parents, I implore you to make it your business to sow into the lives of your children the fruits of the spirit. 

Life is far more than its temporary pleasures. We are body, mind, and soul. Do your children a favor and grow their soul as well as their body and mind. In a world where academics and sports seem to take precedent, go against the mainstream and make your child’s soul your top priority. That is real love for them. 

“Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.” (Proverbs 13:24, ESV)

“Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you strike him with a rod, he will not die. If you strike him with the rod, you will save his soul from Sheol.” (Proverbs 23:13-14, ESV)

“Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline drives it far from him.” (Proverbs 22:15, ESV)

“The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.” (Proverbs 29:15, ESV)