Video Discription |
June 30th, 2024, Pastor Jose McFarland.
Welcome to the final installment of our transformative series, "Raising Godly Kids in a Messed-Up World." Throughout this journey, we've explored vital principles and practical tools to help parents navigate the challenging task of raising children with integrity, honor, character, respect, morality, and Biblical values. If you've missed any previous sessions, I encourage you to catch up and revisit the teachings to reinforce these timeless truths.
Today, we’ll delve into essential parenting strategies and rededicate ourselves to God and the sacred mission of raising godly children. Our foundational scripture for this series is Deuteronomy 6:4-9 (NLT), which emphasizes the importance of wholeheartedly loving God and diligently passing down His commandments to our children. Let's explore how to intentionally raise godly kids and develop our parenting skills to match each stage of our children's growth.
Key Scripture: Deuteronomy 6:4-9 (NLT)
"Listen, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord alone. And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates."
Parenting with Purpose
Parenting doesn't happen by accident, especially when aiming to raise children with Biblical values. We must parent with a goal, keeping the end in mind. Our objective is not merely to create Christian families but rather Christ-centered families, setting a godly example for our children.
4 Stages of Parenting:
The Discipline Years (Up to 5 Years Old)
Discipline is often misunderstood in our culture, but true discipline stems from love. It involves guiding children in obedience, respect, and honesty.
Hebrews 12:6 (NLT): "For the Lord disciplines those he loves..."
Establishing a foundation of discipline at this stage is crucial for future development.
The Training Years (5-12 Years Old)
This stage is about instilling skills and values. Explain the "why" behind the "what" to help children understand the importance of their actions.
Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV): "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."
Training is essential for developing champions in life, much like athletes who train rigorously for their success.
The Coaching Years (12-18 Years Old)
In this stage, parents need to connect more than correct. Become students of your children, understanding their likes and dislikes.
Coaching requires time and repetition. Be there for your kids consistently, showing them they are worth the effort.
Good coaches never abandon their team, regardless of wins or losses.
The Friendship Years (18+ Years Old)
This stage reflects the law of the harvest; you reap what you've sown in the earlier stages.
Transition into a role of friendship, reaping the benefits of a well-sown relationship.
Overcoming Parental Guilt and Shame
You might be thinking, "This information would have been great 5, 10, or 20 years ago." If you're struggling with feelings of failure, guilt, or shame, know that our God is merciful. He can forgive and redeem any past words, attitudes, or actions.
Breaking the Cycle
If you feel trapped in a hereditary cycle of abuse or negativity, remember that God's grace allows you to break free. Jesus came to set us free from all forms of bondage, enabling us to be the parents He created us to be.
Final Rededication
Let's rededicate ourselves first to God and then to the mission of raising godly children. Embrace His forgiveness, allow His grace to transform you, and commit to being Christ-centered parents who guide their children in the ways of the Lord.
Join the Community
If you're looking for more support in raising godly kids, join our community. Attend our weekly services, engage in youth ministries, and participate in family-oriented activities. Together, we can build a strong foundation for our children in a supportive and loving environment.
Thank you for joining us in this series. May God bless you and guide you as you continue on this incredible journey of parenthood. [qCKp1okJkYw] |