Generational Grace
Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is a wise reprover to a listening ear. Proverbs 25:12 (NKJV)
As Christians, we know the grace of God in leaving us a book of instructions that, when kept, will make our lives better. We revel in the love He shows us by commanding us to do things for our own good. When we don’t do things His way we understand and can appreciate the fact that He will discipline us so that we see His way as the better way.
A simple example would be the way we treat other people, especially family. When a Mom gets snippy or unkind in response to an angry statement from one of her children, the argument escalates. The Bible is clear that, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Proverbs 15:1
Christian parents have heard this but fail to apply it at home in the heat of the moment.
Studying Proverbs can be convicting. Often, they are addressed directly to Fathers, Mothers, or both. Biblically speaking, parents have a great responsibility to raise their children to fear the Lord, to walk in His statutes, and to live according to His principles.
Even if a child shows no signs of being a Christian, parents can teach them and hold them to the principles of scripture for his/her own good. In fact, we have a God-given responsibility to do it. Even the non-Christian who gives a soft answer will turn away wrath just as her harsh words will stir up anger.
Recently it seems that many Christians are allowing the world to determine their path of parenting. This is not good for the children. So many fathers have abandoned their families, many mothers are too tired to discipline, though the Bible says that if we discipline a child, “he will give you rest” and “give delight to your heart” (Proverbs 29:17). The very things that will be good for all of us, we fail to do because we think the world will judge us for it.
Sadly, it appears many grandparents stand by silently without even the suggestion that there is a better way.
Why do we care what the world thinks? The Lord warns us that the world “follows the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience.” He goes on to point out that this leaves people with no hope and separated from Christ. (Ephesians 2:2)
So, when parents, even non-Christian parents, are teaching their children the ways of the world or allowing behaviors that go against the principles of God’s plan for parenting and godly living, it is tempting to correct them, to point out that God has a way that is better. It is a way of discipline, a way of grace, and a way of showing love for our neighbor in our daily routines.
When children are raised by biblical principles they are more likely to experience good relationships (in and outside of the family), to be well respected, and most likely, they will be honored at home and in the workplace as adults.
Obviously, behavior is not all we are looking for. We want them to grow in the discipline and instruction of the Lord for their own spiritual salvation and growth (Ephesians 6:4).
The grace of God is evident in His instruction. Will we pass it on to the next generation?
Amen. Let’s pass on His instructions and love to the next generation.
Indeed, Melissa, let’s!
After being a school nurse for a while now I have seen that some grandparents would love to make constructive suggestions to their grandchildren’s parents but after being berated for doing this, have stopped in order not to lose the privilege of seeing their grandchildren.
Wow, Pat! How sad is that. Maybe we need a post about being humble enough to receive correction from your parents when you are an adult. Hmmmm….
I’ve heard the same message Pat described.
On the other hand, it could also be the way the “suggestion” is made. Sometimes the delivery overrides the content!
A-Men Sister it’s a must even though as Grand Parents we have to use wisdom and sometimes the right methods to even get a word in of advice. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can do our part to insert the ways of the Lord. God Bless
Beautiful and practical parenting advice, Beth. I remember when my husband and I committed Proverbs 15:1 to memory, not only for our marriage and toward each other, but also for our parenting, and other relationships in life. It shows God’s Word and ways are relevant and do help maintain healthy relationships and healthy families. Thanks for the reminder.
Definitely agree with the responsibility even urgency of raising our children and grandchildren on the principles of the word of God. It seems generation after generation is slipping farther away from this.
The Proverbs are so rich with insights. I am thankful to my parents. And hope many others can say the same.
That is true, Ava, Delivery is important.
Thanks, Stephen, Our words do have to be chosen wisely for sure.
Yes, Karen, The Word of God is living and active….
Yes, Veda, I sometimes wonder if the dismissal of the Old Testament in so many churches has driven us away from the importance God places on generational teaching.
True Ava, The Proverbs are neglected to our peril!
With a heart for parents, I love this post, Beth! Thank you so much for being a voice to parents and advocate for raising children for Him. Proverbs is a great book of wisdom that we can learn from, as parents, followers of Jesus, and in marriage. For example, you point out this wise saying: “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Proverbs 15:1. This simple step in life can change the trajectory of every family relationship.
I’m sharing with the parents in our Kids Ministry! 😉
Marcie, I am grateful that you found the post useful. God’s Word never returns void! May God bless your ministry to children and their parents.
I love the Proverbs, I find them to be the best-ever How To Parent manual.
I completely agree, Jessica. Thanks for commenting.
Amen, beautiful post
Thanks, Yvonne. I appreciate your encouragement.
Yes, we must pass on biblical principles and direction to the next generation. How will they know it, otherwise? I think it’s easy to relegate parenting and guidance to the world but that actually counters God’s kingdom work and steers our young people further from the truth. Thank you for these wise words.
Praying for the steering to change direction, Stephen. You are right that we are countering God’s Kingdom. May our God open the eyes of parents to His expectations of their work for Him.