Jan 09, 2016
Training in Godliness
Deuteronomy 4:9-10
Our desire as Christian parents is to help our children mature into godly men and women. We want them to believe the Father has a plan for their lives and they’re accountable to Him.
I remember teaching my children from a young age about these important truths. I wanted biblical principles to shape their thinking, their choices, and their hearts. After explaining about God’s will, I told them they were accountable to the Lord for their behavior—as well as to their mother and me. If kids believe they are accountable only to their parents, then when apart from Mom and Dad, they’re likely to think they don’t have to answer to anyone.
My children didn’t always agree with my decisions, so I taught them to speak to their heavenly Father about it. Over time, they developed the habit of talking with Him. This training became very important in their teenage years. Instead of giving a quick no to some of their requests, I said, “Find out what God wants you to do. Whatever you two agree on, I will accept.” I knew this was risky, but I had to trust the Lord and give my children the opportunity to practice what I’d been teaching them throughout their lives—that they’re accountable to the Father.
Training in godliness begins before children establish a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. We continue the process by demonstrating righteousness all through life. Children need to know about the Lord’s plan for them and their accountability to Him. When we model uprightness, our kids can grow up accountable to a loving Father.
Bible in One Year: Genesis 29-31 |
