Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord, for this is the right thing to do. Honor your father and mother. Ephesians 6:1-2
Families can be an incredible source of joy, but they’re often a source of tension too.
Are you currently parenting and a bit overwhelmed? Parents may definitely feel overwhelmed with the responsibility of guiding their children, while children may feel misunderstood or unheard. How can families navigate these challenges in a way that honors God and strengthens relationships?
God speaks direction to both parents and kids. To kids, the Bible says, “Children, obey your parents… Honor your father and mother” (Ephesians 6:1-2). While this may seem straightforward, it’s not always easy, especially when kids may feel that parents don’t seem to understand. But God’s command is rooted in His love and wisdom– honoring parents teaches respect and fosters deeper connections.
To parents, God says, “…do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes with the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). Parents are challenged to respect their kids as people made in God’s image, balancing correction with love and understanding.
All relationships—especially family ones—require work from both sides. God’s call to each of us is to grow in different ways. Children may need to learn to obey God by submitting to the limits their parents place on them, while parents may need to be more attentive or gentle.
Here’s an example. Sara often dismissed her teenage daughter’s feelings without listening to what she had to say. After apologizing and making an effort to listen more, their relationship changed. Her daughter, in turn, began to respect and communicate better, even when they disagreed.
God challenges us all to build bridges in our relationships, especially in families. What is one step you can take to grow in love, patience, or understanding in your family today?
