It is easier to build strong children than it is to repair broken men.
This vision statement adopted for the Youth Church is a recognizable reality, but it is also a Biblical Principle. The Word of God commands children to: “Honor thy father and thy mother, as the Lord thy God hath commanded thee; that thy days may be pronged and that it may go well with thee, in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.” (Deuteronomy) 5:16
Moreover, children are commanded to listen to what parents teach. “Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.” (Proverbs 23:22)
As children treat their parents with honor, due obedience and courtesy, they are more teachable. Children are a precious gift from God: “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.” (Psalm 127:3).
We know that God can only give good gifts. A good child brings joy to the father and has been promised long life. As parents realize that children are a gift from the Lord, there is also the realization that in matters of discipline and instructions, that too, should come from the Lord. Children are never an impediment, a hindrance to living the “good life.” Jesus tells us most emphatically not to despise children for they have a “heaven connection.” (Matthew 18:10)
On this Children’s Annual Day, let us recommit to Godly discipline and Godly instruction for our children. Teach your children about the Lord and His way. “Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul, and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they may be as frontlets between your eyes. And ye shall teach them to your children, speaking of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, when thou liest down, and when thou riseth up.” (Deuteronomy 11:18-19)
Two things about discipline:
- Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul. (Proverbs 29:1)
- The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame. (Proverbs 29:15.
This Pastor is very proud of, and grateful to God, for both our children and their parents. (Remember, the Word works if you work the Word)
Pastor J. Amos Jones
