Having obedience in character training your kids doesn’t always come easy. In fact, I’m fully convinced that it’s something we all have to be intentional about, especially if we want to see positive results. Keep reading to learn how to see obedience in character training from a biblical and practical perspective.
Modeling Obedience For Your Kids
Obedience in Character Training Your Kids
Think back to your childhood. How often were you intentionally taught about obedience, especially from a biblical perspective? Some parents may have fond memories of their parents diligently raising them in the ways of the Lord, while others may not have had willful and designed instruction.
Regardless of which category you fall into, be encouraged in knowing that you can deliberately teach your children obedience with results that glorify God and please you.
A Good Bible Verse for Obedience
There are many scriptures we can look at when it comes to obedience, but this one stands out to me the most –
“If you love Me, keep My commands.” (John 14:15)
I believe this Scripture can sum up what love is for both our Heavenly Father and earthly Father (and Mother). Just as we’ve been given clear instructions for living a Christian lifestyle, we as parents also give “commands” to our children for living life here on earth.
Just as Jesus went about preaching and teaching the gospel and Good News, we too have a commission to lead, guide, and direct our children in the ways of the Word. Obedience becomes the silver thread that connects everything about living holy and acceptable to God.
Teaching Your Children the Importance of Obedience
Have you ever promised your children something in return for being obedient? I’m sure we all have at some point. Although it may be looked at as bribery, the intent of the heart is what must be weighed. We shouldn’t use if this, then that in a way that’s hindering or manipulating, but just as God says if this, then that – we can follow His model of doing so in a loving way. If you find yourself wondering, “How do I instill obedience in my children?” God’s Word is the very best place to start!
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God’s Promise for Obedience
God promises many things in return for true obedience:
- Blessings (Proverbs 16:20)
- Saving (Psalm 7:10)
- Watches/Protects (Psalm 37:18)
- Answers prayers (1 John 3:22)
- Long life (Proverbs 19:16)
- Abundance (Psalm 34:9-10)
The Fruit of Obedience
The fruit of obedience can be likened to the fruit of the Spirit. What are the characteristics of an obedient child? And what should you expect when teaching them this very specific character attribute?
Obedience shows that you are in total submission to God and His instructions. How you live obediently in front of your kids models this character trait for them in real-time. While we are still living on earth, the fruit of obedience leads to happiness, joy, and living out our calling. In the spiritual, obedience leads to an everlasting life with our Heavenly Father.
Being Obedient Even When It’s Hard
This is probably one of the toughest lessons to teach our children and to also walk out ourselves as parents. There are times when obedience is required and our flesh wants nothing to do with it. Other times, it seems easier because it’s what we want to be doing anyway.
When obedience is hard, the best thing we can do (and teach our children to do) is to trust God. Because obedience through difficult circumstances will contribute to Godly character development in all of us!
Say Goodbye to Whining, Complaining, and Bad Attitudes... in You and Your Kids
Passionate Parenting: Enjoying the Journey of Parenting TeensSolving A Crisis in Christian Parenting: Why so many prodigals?[(Child Training Tips : What I Wish I Knew When My Children Were Young)] [By (author) Reb Bradley] published on (August, 2014)
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Trust that He has us doing or saying something for a specific reason. Oftentimes, we can look back on an instance to realize then why our utmost obedience was necessary. We can rest assured knowing that we can never go wrong with being obedient.
Modeling Obedience In Character Training
Obedience plays a major role in character training your kids. As parents, you are commissioned to raise your children in the ways of the Lord and when they are old, they will not depart from it. Although it may seem like a huge job, you never have to go at it alone. Always depend on Jesus, His Word, and the Holy Spirit to order your steps. And always place yourself under total submission and obedience to the Lord, and you’ll see the same in your children as well.
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