What's a Parent to Do?
Come, you children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. Psalm 34:11
Recommended ReadingProverbs 2:1-5
The next time you're in a bookstore, check out the section on "Parenting"—and see how many shelves of books there are. Or, for a better perspective, check the "Parenting" section at Amazon.com and note the nearly 32,000 titles that are listed. If a confused parent went looking for help on raising children, the chances are he might come away from these sources even more confused. What's a parent to do?
It might be best to consult the "manufacturer" when it comes to seeking advice on the "product." God is the creator of children (Psalm 139:14-16) and has filled the Bible with precepts and examples on how to guide them to maturity—maturity meaning adults who choose to love God through His Son, Jesus Christ. Children need "training and admonition" (Ephesians 6:4), and directions for both are found in Scripture. Indirectly, the path to maturity must go through a home where God is part of everyday life—an unforced relationship of willing choice and fruitful benefit. And parents are responsible for creating such a home.
Great children are raised by great parents who serve a great God with great expectations for the outcome.
What greater work is there than training the mind and forming the habits of the young?
~St. John Chrysostom
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