This week at youth group i gave each person my answer to the tricky question about obeying parents. Having folks that haven't ever said they believe in God, it's something I've thought about a bit.
Reading Ephesians 6:1-4, this is what i reckon Paul can teach us about how to interact with our parents.
First, obeying your parents is important. But, it is overridden by your obedience to God (verse 1). We are called to follow how God has called us to live. This is number one. If you’re parents tell you to rob a bank, join a cult or commit murder, you are within your Christian right to respectfully not agree. WARNING: This can be tough to navigate, so getting some advice is a good idea!
Second, the Bible seems to make a bigger deal about honouring your parents (verse 2) than obeying them ( though these will normally go hand-in-hand though). No matter how old you are, you are to respect those who raised you. They may not be perfect or mistake-free, but they are to be honoured by your actions, words and attitudes.
Third, if you get along with your parents, it will be for your own benefit (verse 3). Hopefully, those who care for you are trying to do the best job they can and the decisions they make are guided by their love for you (verse 4). Cut them some slack at times. Try and see it from their point of view. No-one wants to live in a home full of arguments and tension.
Forth, notice how Jesus treated his parents in Luke 2:51. Follow His example.
Finally, pray for yourself and the adults in your life. Pray for wisdom and understanding. Putting the wants of others before your own isn’t easy. Ask God to help you.
No comments:
Post a Comment