Parenting Equals Discipleship

Scripture: Deuteronomy 6:4-7

These verses are addressed to the nation of Israel in general, but are written to parents specifically.  It seems at least according to verse 7, parents should do nothing else but teach their children about God.  Really?  Hold that question, but answer another.  What drives YOU as a parent?  In today’s world, many Christian parents are driven by their children’s education, success, involvement in sports, or other activities – unfortunately.  While most may not want to admit it, the time, money, and energy they spend on these things reveal the truth.   

As you read the Scriptures above, note that God seems to have another idea in mind.  The principle being taught (and confirmed throughout God’s Word) is that PARENTS primarily, are responsible for pursuing the perpetuation of faith in their children.  In other words, parenting equals discipleship.  So to answer the question posed earlier, this command is not merely demanding robotic repetition of the command to love God.  The context of this passage (Israel’s deliverance) implies an assumption that parents will view their own salvation with such awe that it will explode through the very seams of every interaction with their kids.  Specifically, the singular, most important thing you can do for your children is to point them time and time again to the glory of God’s grace in offering salvation for sinners through the cross of Christ. 

If you have neglected this in the past, it is not too late.  If God has already saved your children, thank Him and continue to encourage them to walk in a manner worthy of God
(1 Thess. 2:11).  Either way, hearing and learning and talking about and treasuring God’s Word should be the foundation in your life and in the lives of your children.

Daily Prayer:

O God, thank you for my children and the opportunity I have in parenting them.  I recognize that you have given me the responsibility to disciple my children.  I accept it and humbly ask for your grace, your wisdom, and your strength as I attempt to obey your Word.  Grant that I may have the desire to live my life solely for the purpose of your glory and help me prioritize my focus to model for my children a life of treasuring you and your Word above all else.  Amen.

Daily Challenges:

×        Pray for your children’s salvation

×        Implement a plan to read God’s word everyday as a family

×        Read as your text today:  Deuteronomy 6:4-25