Influencing Our Children
Parental influence is arguably the most important consideration in this discussion. To a child, mom and dad are infallible. Their decisions are righteous. Their actions are acceptable and of sound judgement. Their instructions are the gospel. Solomon said, “train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it (Proverbs 22:6)”. If mom and dad are infallible in the child’s eyes, and God isn’t a part of daily life in the household, will the child grow up to be a Christian? Will he or she be active in the congregation? Will he or she be a strong parent and ensure that the family attends services and classes? Take a moment to consider the youth of the congregation. Who will teach a class? Who will be an elder? Who will preach? Who will serve or encourage? Every child has the God given ability to fill a vital role in the function of the church. We as parents have the necessary influence to establish the proper foundation for our children to grow up strong and faithful. When we discipline, do we tell them that God doesn’t approve of their behavior? When we go on vacation, do we make sure they see us actively seeking a congregation of the Lord’s church to attend? Do we prioritize Bible classes and worship services over extracurricular activities and personal entertainment? Do our children see us behaving in a Godly manner?
We will shape those around us whether we wish to or not. We will either bring them toward Christ or separate them from him. Just like the shoe leaving a print in soft soil, our behavior will mold the hearts of those we encounter. Let us always be mindful of how we present ourselves to others. Let others see that Christ rules our lives, not our Sunday mornings. Remember that the children with which we are entrusted are the next generation of leadership in the church and it is our responsibility to provide them with the necessary tools to achieve that role. The whole duty of man is to fear God and keep his commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13). Let the fear of God and the adherence to his Word be what influences those around us.
By Matt Brown