What other biblical examples show parents guiding children in God's purposes? Setting the Scene: David Directs Solomon “Then he called for his son Solomon and instructed him to build a house for the LORD, the God of Israel.” (1 Chronicles 22:6) David models a parent who • recognizes God’s specific purpose for his child • verbalizes that purpose plainly • supplies resources, encouragement, and a clear spiritual charge (see 1 Chronicles 22:11–13; 28:9–10) The pattern is repeated all through Scripture. Abraham Safeguards Isaac’s Covenant Line • Genesis 24:3-4 – Abraham makes his servant swear “that you will not take a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites… but that you will go to my country and my kindred to take a wife for my son Isaac.” • By arranging a godly marriage, Abraham shields Isaac from compromise and keeps God’s promise central (Genesis 24:7). Jochebed and Amram Protect and Form Moses • Hebrews 11:23 – “By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months… they were not afraid of the king’s edict.” • Exodus 2:9-10 shows Jochebed nursing and training Moses in his Hebrew identity before releasing him to Pharaoh’s daughter. Their courage positions Moses to become Israel’s deliverer. Hannah Dedicates Samuel for Lifelong Service • 1 Samuel 1:27-28 – “I prayed for this boy… I now dedicate him to the LORD. For as long as he lives, he is dedicated to the LORD.” • Hannah guides Samuel by surrendering him early to temple ministry (1 Samuel 2:11), shaping a prophet who would anoint kings. Manoah and His Wife Prepare Samson • Judges 13:12 – Manoah asks, “What will be the boy’s rule of life and mission?” • The angel details Nazirite boundaries (Judges 13:13-14). The parents obey, cultivating Samson’s strength for Israel’s deliverance. Elizabeth and Zechariah Shape John the Baptist • Luke 1:15-17 predicts John’s calling; his parents embrace it from conception. • Luke 1:60-63 shows them naming him John in obedience to God’s word, steering his distinct prophetic path. Joseph and Mary Nurture Jesus’ Early Years • Luke 2:22-24 – they present Jesus in the temple, following the Law. • Luke 2:51-52 – Jesus “was obedient to them… and grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” Their stewardship fosters His messianic mission. Lois and Eunice Ground Timothy in Scripture • 2 Timothy 1:5 – genuine faith “first lived in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice.” • 2 Timothy 3:15 – “from infancy you have known the sacred Scriptures.” Their teaching equips Timothy for pastoral leadership. Shared Threads to Notice • Parents take God’s revelations seriously and act at once. • They teach, model, and sometimes surrender personal desires to keep the child aligned with divine purpose. • Scripture itself is the primary tool for shaping the next generation (Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Proverbs 22:6). From David to Lois, the biblical record repeatedly shows mothers and fathers who intentionally guide their children into God’s plans—an enduring invitation for every family today. |
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