JULY 19, 2026 – SUBMISSIVE

READ: Eph. 6:1–4

Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord. Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged. – Col. 3:20,21

Rejecting the authority of parents is a sign of the times before Christ’s return. 2 Tim. 3 says: “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves … blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful …” We increasingly see this disobedience in our time taking shape in the direction of anarchy: a lawless society in which everyone does what seems right in his or her own eyes.

Children scarcely listen anymore to what their father and mother say. At the same time, parents increasingly leave their children to themselves, to what they think is right or to what is presented to them through the media or their peers. But children are not merely immature; by nature, like their parents, they are sinful (Ps. 51:5). Of themselves they will not make choices that accord with godliness.

For this they need covenantal instruction in the faith, instruction that includes all aspects of life. They also need the good example of their parents. They must also learn obedience. Paul says: in all things—even when they do not yet understand. For this is well pleasing to the Lord. Children must see Christ standing behind their father or mother, even when they are corrected or disciplined.

When parents discipline, if necessary, this may not be disproportionate, but must always be directed toward the welfare of the child. This certainly will not always meet with approval from outsiders. Even corporal discipline (Prov. 23:13,14) has been forbidden by the government. However one disciplines, love must be evident in it. It must certainly not lead to provoking the child—that is, challenging, irritating, or discouraging him.

Believing parents have a beautiful task in bringing their children, who have received the sign and seal of the covenant, to their Lord Jesus through their upbringing. This is a reason for great gratitude.

What does the Lord have to do with child-rearing?
Singing: Ps. 78:1,2