Children are given to us so that we can prepare them
to serve the Lord. No parent has ever been perfect, nor has any praying
parent been a failure. Children must be trained so that they can be taught.
Tiny ones - until at least 4, can not think in the abstract,
and they must not be given the option of needing to
understand or agree before they obey. They must be trained to obey instantly. Any parent who
calls the child several times before the child looks
up or responds is unwise. Every child can be trained to
respond instantly. The problem is, parents do not know it
is possible, and often, they do not realize how desperately
important it is. The other critical thing little ones need is consistent and
absolutely firm training in the way they speak to adults. The first "no" must be a serious offense, and once the child
has been told once he may not say "no", he will no doubt try it
a second time. Most children will not do a third time if the
consequences are serious enough. A strong-willed child will do
it, possibly many times, but it is imperative that there
be some pain ministered. The parents should not think it is
not working, just because the child does not acquiesce
immediately. He is testing you. Christian parents, if you heed the Word of God on these matters,
your child will avoid some of the struggles when he reaches the
age of accountability and must choose Whom he will serve. He will be able to pray when he does not feel like it, because
God has said. He will have a disciplined mouth. He will love integrity. In the meantime, if you do whatever it takes to direct your children
in these two areas, you will be able to teach them, and they will
listen. This can only be done by prayer. There must be a vision in
order to be consistent and to endure. Our children need us - they need parents who will sacrifice -
give up passivity, stop making excuses, and step up to the plate. Make a decision in prayer - out loud. The Lord will lead you
each step of the way, and He will give you the energy you
need for the battle.
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