Parent, That’s Your Job Description

Abraham had a nephew called Lot who succeeded in business, but lost his family. How come? Because: (a) he had the wrong emphasis—he placed material success above spiritual success; (b) he had the wrong environment—he thought his children could live in Sodom and not be affected by it; (c) he had the wrong expectation—he thought he could change his surroundings by compromising with them; (d) he set the wrong example—he thought his family would follow his instructions; instead they followed his lifestyle; (e) he had the wrong relationships—he didn’t realise, until it was too late, how much Sodom had influenced his family (Genesis 19:4–5). If you think you can live by the world’s rules and expect your children to follow God’s, you’re kidding yourself. You must lead by example. Outside of your influence as a parent, the four greatest influences in your child’s life are their peers, the internet, media and music. And all four are either working for you or against you. You say, ‘But I’m really busy right now.’ Get un-busy! Rethink your priorities. Your child’s character is being moulded each day; the question is, by whom? God’s Word clearly states that these six things make up your job description as a parent: (1) Instruct them (Deuteronomy 6:6–7). (2) Train them (Proverbs 22:6). (3) Provide for them (2 Corinthians 12:14). (4) Nurture them (Ephesians 6:4). (5) Discipline them (1 Timothy 3:4). (6) Love them (Titus 2:4). The truth is, you have no greater responsibility!