2. This generation is being raised confusing messages: We tell our children how important their lives are. Yet in 1991, (8%) 1.6 million were left home alone without supervision. Today, as many as 10 million!

3. This generation is being raised confusing messages: A number are brought up thinking the world revolves around them… and wonder why it doesn’t when they become adults

4. This generation is being raised confusing messages: Still, other children are lead to believe their parents are clueless.

5. Introduction Additionally, society uses so many wavering standards regarding the raising of children. – Some use the “what I think is best” method. – Others: “that’s how I was brought up.” – Still, others use whatever the popular psychologist is of the year.

6. Introduction Many ask themselves...which is right? – The answer lies neither in this world nor any of the worldly methods. – Those who “live by faith” will look to God’s word because He has the wisdom that pertains to life and godliness. Cp. 2 Pet. 1:3

7. Introduction This lesson for both parents and children: – To show parents children are (or, can be) a blessing to them. – For children to obey and honor their parents in the Lord. Eph. 6:1-3 – For parents to train their children to fulfill their role of obedience that God ordained. Eph. 6:1-4

8. “Unless the L ORD builds the house, They labor in vain who build it…Behold, children are a gift of the L ORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one’s youth. How blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them; They will not be ashamed When they speak with their enemies in the gate.” (Psalm 127:1–5, NASB95)

9. Which Attitude Do You Have? Psalm 127 Children are gifts from God. v. 3 They serve and benefit parents. V. 4 Blessed are parents with them. V. 5 Society Children are not gifts, but “accidents”. They are a nuisance and hindrance. We have to “put up” with them until they leave the house.

10. “Train up a child in the way he should go, Even when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6, NASB95)

11. …In the Way They Should Go Trained up in the Lord, children become a source who benefit their parents. Psa. 127:4 Therefore, children are a blessing to their parents. The general rule is that children are a direct result (an arrow!) of parents guiding them in the way they should live. Cp. Prov. 10:1

12. Children Must Learn Obedience Children, obey your parents in the Lord. Eph. 6:1 – Command to children: all ages under consideration. – Godly parents want you to live godly lives. cp. Prov. 1:8 – True obedience is doing “all” that that your parents desire of you even when you don’t necessarily want to do what is asked. Col. 3:20 Parents, God has entrusted you to rule over the lives of your children the way He rules over our lives.

13. Children Must Learn Honor Honor (value) your father and your mother. Eph. 6:2 – It is one thing to obey your parents in all things; it is another to value (esteem) them highly. Prov. 31:28 – Parents, provide them reason to honor you. Eph. 6:4 Honoring them in their waning years: 1 Tim. 5:3-4; Mk. 7:10-11

14. Conclusion God’s word reveals that children are a reward and blessing to their parents...this should be the attitude Christians have toward them. Children, remember the role God has given you by obeying and honoring your parents...for this is right in His sight.