“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— “that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” Ephesians 6:1-4
We’re doing a parenting Bible study that coincides with our Vacation Bible School (VBS). We picked Dr. Kevin Lehman’s series called “Making Your Children Mind Without Losing Yours” which is Biblically based, but not overwhelming to a non-churched crowd.
Lesson 1 was about developing the courage to do what is best for your kids! Here are some key thoughts:
AUTHORITY. God has placed you in authority over your children. They are to obey you. This is right. You must be the parent (which is different from being the friend). Exercise your authority.
LOVE and DISCIPLINE go hand in hand. “Just loving” your kids is a recipe for disaster. You must also discipline them. True love involves training and discipline.
HAPPINESS IS NOT THE GOAL. It’s ok for your children to be unhappy sometimes. That is the reality of life. Children need to learn from difficult periods.
Reality Discipline is an action-oriented way to make your children ACCOUNTABLE for their actions. The goal of this is to develop children who are able to deal in practical ways with: (1) Accountability, (2) the Authority of God, and (3) the Realities of life. … more to come on that topic!
How do we keep from provoking or exasperating our children? “Get behind their eyes and see the world as they do.” Have clear rules and clear/fair consequences. Be consistent. Train your children to do what is right, not just punish them when they do wrong. Do not parent in anger.
Cute little baby? She’s a hedonistic (pleasure-loving), selfish, little sinner! Like all of us – who either hide it better or have been reformed by the presence of Jesus Christ in our lives.
As Dr. Lehman says, “Children are like wet cement that must be formed early, before it hardens!”
‘Children obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing to the Lord. Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.” Colossians 3:20-21
Mindy Clemons 
This goes right along with what we are studying in Life Change about Joshua and the children of Israel. God wants to infuse us with courage. God tells Joshua to be strong and courageous numerous times. I am guessing that Joshua needed to be told that or else God would not have repeated Himself throughout the book. I could use an IV full of the same courage that Joshua was ready and willing to receive about right now. Parenting is the most wonderful yet challenging job I have ever had and without God’s help I am of no use to anyone…especially my children and husband.
Yup.