Success in Parenting (02) - Faith (Gen. 18:19)

Success in Parenting (02): Covenant Faithfulness
Genesis 18:19 - For I have chosen him, in order that he may command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the LORD by doing righteousness and justice; in order that the LORD may bring upon Abraham what He has spoken about him.”

1. Parents are covenantally obligated to be faithful in raising their children to “keep the way of the Lord”. Abraham was chosen by God in order that he carry out the familial covenantal responsibilities of instructing his children in faithfulness to God. Just as Abraham was instructed to be faithful to God, so we are told that His lovingkindness is on children’s children who “keep His covenant.” Psalm 103:17 says, “But the lovingkindness of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, And His righteousness to children’s children, 18 To those who keep His covenant, And who remember His precepts to do them.” Faithful Parenting requires a mindset and heart of faith rather than unbelief or “works.”

2. Children are covenantally obligated to be faithful in obedience “in the Lord.” Christian and covenant children are obligated to continue in faith and obedience to the Word of God. They are obligated to obey the covenant law and will be blessed as they, in faith, obey. This is clear in 2Tim. 3:14, “You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them; 15 and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” Also Col 3:20 speaks of Christian children “in the Lord” (en Kurios). “Col. 3:20 ASV - “Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well-pleasing in the Lord.”

Trusting the Triune God in raising our children faces two opponents: unbelieving despair and “works” (e.g., Eph. 2:8-10). Major Crimes of Parenting . . . Are these [a] Unbelief or [b] a “Works Mentality”?

COVENANTAL PARENTING QUIZ
1. Failure of disciplining and correction in the home is [a] or [b] _________.
2. A judgmental heart expresses [a] or [b] _________.
3. Pessimism or despair in your attitude toward your children is [a] or [b] _________.
4. Cynicism is [a] or [b] _________.
5. Hypocrisy flows from [a] or [b] _________.
6. Parenting with “the right system” is [a] or [b] _________.
7. Expectation of rebellion or failure of children is [a] or [b] _________.
8. Fear and anxiety is [a] or [b] _________.
9. Pride and arrogance (as in your children are better) comes from [a] or [b] _________.
10. A critical spirit toward your children manifests [a] or [b] _________.