Children & Parents
God’s design for family relationships
Each week, I am privileged to put together a kids' bulletin for our church. In addition to being colorful and fun, it is intentionally packed with helpful information for our parents and children's ministry workers. There is an overview of the week, including information about what will be taught; a section for short announcements; and a devotional tied to something the kids are learning that week.
A few weeks ago, we were learning about Ephesians 6:1–4 in children's church (you can find my recording of that lesson here). That week, I dedicated the devotional section to that portion of Scripture. You can find it attached below.
I hope it will be a blessing to you!
This week, we're exploring Ephesians 6:1-4. In it, Paul sets up clear guidance for both children and parents about their responsibilities in the family. Children are to honor and obey their parents. Parents must nurture their children without provocation.
Paul tells children to "obey your parents in the Lord." God speaks to kids directly here, isn't that neat? He doesn't tell parents to make their children obey them. Instead, God wants children to obey Him by obeying their parents.
He also tells them to honor their parents. Honoring parents is more than just obedience. It includes showing respect through words and actions, valuing their wisdom and guidance, expressing thankfulness, and supporting parents as they age.
Parents are warned to not provoke their children to anger. Parents can provoke their children through inconsistent discipline or expectations, unrealistic demands or perfectionism, favoritism among siblings, constant criticism without affirmation, not listening to their thoughts and feelings, and failing to apologize when wrong.
Instead, parents are to nurture their children using the discipline and instruction of the Lord. This means that parents should teach God's Word consistently, model godly character and faith, provide loving correction when needed, create an atmosphere of grace in the home, and pray with and for their children.
When both children and parents fulfill their God-given roles, the family becomes a picture of Christ's relationship with His church—marked by love, respect, and spiritual growth.
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Soli Deo Gloria,
Caleb Friske
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