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The first thing is to recognize that "children" are not of
their own making, but a gift of the Lord for a specific purpose: to
show His character within the community of believers and the world.
The Bible says:
"Behold, I and the children whom the Lord has given me
are for signs and wonders in Israel from the Lord of hosts, who
dwells on Mount Zion." (Isaiah
8:18)
We also read:
"The earth is the Lords,
and all it contains, the world, and those who dwell in it."
"Behold, children are a gift of the Lord; the fruit of
the womb is a reward." (Psalm
24:1; 127:3)
In essence then, the family unit would function under the same
principles as Gods church or body of believers. Unity, in the
spirit, is a basic principle that needs to be taught, but more explicitly
caught!
The following text describes it.
"If therefore there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is
any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any
affection and compassion; make my joy complete by being of the same
mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent
on one purpose
" (Philippians
2:1-2)
How is that unity achieved? Parents can only be godly parents when they
lean on the wisdom and understanding of God instead of their own.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your
own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will
make your paths straight."
(Proverbs 3:5-6)
"But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to
all men generously and without reproach, and it will be given to
him." (James 1:5)
Trusting and leaning on the Lord strengthens the spirit of humility
or meekness which is sensed or caught by children, giving
them a strong example to follow. As they see their parents being
accountable to Someone greater than themselves it builds trust and security.
In addition to many scattered verses throughout Scripture concerning
the subject of training principles, there are seven consecutive chapters
in the book of Proverbs that explicitly guide parents in what to
teach their children. They are Proverbs 2 9. These are wonderful
guidelines. We suggest you study these chapters in connection with the
next link "What Instruction Is Given Regarding Training?"
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