Children Obey; Fathers Encourage—Colossians 3:20-21
“Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged” (Colossians 3:20-21)
Sometimes we need to obey just to obey; if we can learn this lesson as a child then we won’t have to relearn more difficult lessons as adults. This is Pauls instruction to children, obey your parents in everything because obeying pleases the Lord.
This is good advice. He gives similar instruction in the book of Ephesians, mentioning that this is the first commandment with a promise. “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— “that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth” (Ephesians 6:1-3). Not only are children to obey in everything but they are to honor, esteem and value their father and mother in everything; because it please the Lord.
Family is a Gift
One important way in which children can show gratitude for this blessing is to honor and obey. On the other hands parents, especially fathers, are to encourage and support their children. The young and adolescent years are crucial, it is important to strengthen character not break it. Do this by rearing tenderly in discipline and training them in the instruction of the Lord.
The wise King Solomon observed, “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it” (Proverbs 22:6).
Being a parent carries with it an enormous responsibility. However it is the small things that make the most difference. Begin today by intentionally connecting with and encouraging your children. Notice how they are gifted and call it out. Spend time validating their uniqueness and applaud their obedience. May you and your children find blessing in this Biblical principle.