Do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord. Ephesians 6:4
No one falls in love with a rulebook. Parenting—and faith, are built on relationship, not just doing the right thing.
When Sarah became a mom, she was determined to do everything “right.” She followed parenting advice about sticking to schedules and enforcing rules—but something felt off. Her connection with her son weakened. Their relationship had become more about rules and not about relationship, and it was making both mother and son miserable. Sarah prayed: “What am I doing wrong, God?”
The next day, she read this Bible verse: “Do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). Sarah realized what God was showing her: parenting, like faith, isn’t about rule enforcement. It’s about relationship.
God’s instruction isn’t only challenging or demanding—it’s also gentle, kind, creative, and full of love. Just as parental discipline isn’t meant to be harsh or distant, God’s guidance isn’t about controlling us from afar. His commands are rooted in love, designed to draw us into deeper connection with Him.
Have you made faith about following rules? Have you missed the point? The Bible isn’t a checklist of do’s and don’ts—it’s an invitation into daily relationship. God’s Spirit and his Word lead us not only in what’s right, but in how to live as loved children.
Sarah started spending more time playing with her son, asking him questions, and reconnecting. Maybe you need that time too—to sit with God, hear from Him and talk to Him, and remember what faith is really about.
Rule following won’t change you. But relationship with Jesus will.
