Raising Godly Children

Welcome to this edition of Moments of Transformation with Pastor Chris Sola Mene, brought to you by Petra Ministries International. Today, we delve into an essential topic: Raising Godly Children.

The Foundation of Godly Parenting

Our guiding scripture comes from Psalm 45:16: “Instead of your fathers, shall be your sons, whom you shall make princes in all the earth.” This verse emphasizes our responsibility to cultivate our children into leaders who not only shine in society but also bring glory to God.

Reflecting on the story of David and Goliath, we see a young David, the son of Jesse, stepping up in a moment of crisis. King Saul, bewildered by David’s courage, inquires about his lineage. This moment highlights the profound question: Who raised this boy? The boldness and faith displayed by David were a direct reflection of the values instilled in him by his father, Jesse.

The Joy of Raising Godly Children

One of life’s greatest joys is seeing our children flourish and make us proud. As John writes in 2 John 1:4, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” The ultimate legacy we can leave is not wealth or fame, but children who honor God and reflect our values.

In today’s world, it’s crucial to ask ourselves: Are we raising our children to surpass us in righteousness? Are they making not only our earthly name proud but also their Heavenly Father’s?

The Cost of Godly Parenting

Raising godly children is not without its challenges; it comes at a price. Many in today’s society shy away from having large families due to the perceived burden of parenting. However, having multiple children offers a unique opportunity for influence and discipleship.

Consider the example of Eli and his sons. Despite their lineage, they were known for their corruption and were described as “sons of Belial.” Their story serves as a stark reminder that our children can bear our name yet live contrary to our values if we neglect our role as their primary educators.

Shaping the Next Generation

Our children are living messages that will echo into the future. Psalm 127:3-5 tells us that “children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.” Like arrows in the hands of a warrior, they are meant to be launched into the world, impacting it for the Kingdom.

To raise godly children, we must embody the principles we wish to instill in them. Our actions speak louder than words. Children are more likely to emulate what they observe in their parents. If we want them to embrace integrity, kindness, and faithfulness, we must exemplify these traits ourselves.

Practical Steps to Raise Godly Children

1. Teach Intentionally: Create opportunities to teach your children the Word of God. Involve them in family prayers and discussions about faith.
2. Restrain Excesses: Guide them by setting boundaries. Discipline is essential for their growth, as Proverbs 12:5-11 reminds us.
3. Be Present: Your involvement in their lives is crucial. Attend their events and show interest in their activities to foster a sense of belonging.
4. Navigate Their Future: Help them explore their talents and guide them in making choices aligned with God’s purpose for their lives.

When we commit to these practices, we lay a strong foundation for our children. As they grow, they will not only embody our teachings but also rise to make an impact in the world.

Conclusion

Raising godly children is an investment that yields immeasurable returns. When our children succeed in living out their faith, it is a daily celebration of Father’s Day—a testament to the legacy we have nurtured in them.

As we close today’s session, I urge you to deepen your relationship with God, so you can guide your children in His ways. If you’ve not yet accepted Jesus into your life, I invite you to pray: “Lord Jesus, forgive my sins and write my name in the Book of Life.”

For more insights and support, stay connected with us at Petra Ministries. Join us for services every Sunday at 11:00 AM and Wednesdays at 7:00 PM at 81 Lancaster Ave., Suite 211, Malvern, PA.

Thank you for joining us on this journey of transformation. God bless you!