It is vital that parents gain the ear of their dear children. Of what benefit will the most godly wisdom be to one who won’t hear? Yet we must admit that when our children don’t listen to us, it can’t always be assumed to be their fault. Often we fail to gain their heart’s confidence through love. Then when we warn and instruct them, our directions may meet with unresponsive ears.
This vital principle is clearly seen in Scripture. Consider John 1:29,36-37: “John . . . saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. . . . And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God! And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.” Why did those two disciples hear John speak? Because their hearts had first been won by beholding His perfect display of love and tenderness. They became willing listeners and then followed Jesus.
Earnestly strive in love to win your children’s hearts and confidence, for then they will be eager listeners to your words of instruction.
“Speaking the truth in love” (Eph. 4:15).
Adapted from Parenting Principles for Christians
Ed. Note: On page 157 of the June 2001 issue of Christian Shepherd, in the article entitled “Meditations on Musical Worship,” the comment is made: “The Christian’s clothing is the Lord Jesus Christ (Rom. 13:14), which is called the righteousness of saints (Rev. 19:8).” We would mention that in Revelation 19:8 it is the righteousness of the saints—referring more particularly to the things done in the body by each one who has received eternal life.