What lessons from 2 Samuel 12:25 can guide us in parenting today? Setting the Scene “and he sent word through Nathan the prophet to name him Jedidiah, because the LORD loved him.” (2 Samuel 12:25) What Stands Out in the Verse • The initiative comes from God—“He sent word.” • God speaks through a trusted prophet—Nathan. • A newborn receives a God-given name—Jedidiah (“Beloved of the LORD”). • The motive is crystal clear—“because the LORD loved him.” Treasure Each Child as a Divine Gift • Psalm 127:3 reminds, “Children are a heritage from the LORD.” • David and Bathsheba had walked through grief; yet God still calls this new life beloved. • Parenting takeaway: Even after failure or loss, welcome every child as evidence of God’s ongoing grace, not a random accident. Seek the Lord’s Voice Over Your Children • God did the naming; parents simply received the message. • Isaiah 30:21 promises, “Your ears will hear a word behind you, ‘This is the way.’” Listen for God’s specific guidance—about schooling, friendships, discipline. • Practical step: Regularly lay family decisions before the Lord, expecting Him to speak through Scripture, wise counsel, and the inner witness of His Spirit. Speak Identity and Destiny Into Their Lives • “Jedidiah” stamped Solomon’s heart with “Beloved.” • Jesus received similar words at His baptism (Matthew 3:17). • Proverbs 18:21: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” • Daily practice: – Call out God-honoring character you see budding. – Use blessing language—Numbers 6:24-26—at bedtime or school drop-off. – Replace labels like “troublemaker” with “man of courage” or “woman of wisdom.” Partner With Godly Mentors • Nathan, not a family member, delivered the word. • Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 underscores the strength of partnership. • Action points: – Invite youth pastors, grandparents, or mature friends to speak spiritual truth over your children. – Model humility by welcoming correction and encouragement yourself. Embrace Fresh Starts and Forgiveness • The setting follows David’s repentance over grievous sin (2 Samuel 12:13). • Yet God’s love for the next generation shines undimmed. • Lamentations 3:22-23 promises new mercies every morning. • Hope for parents: Past mistakes—yours or your child’s—do not cancel God’s plans. Keep moving forward in grace. Living It Out Today • Begin each day acknowledging, “These children are Jedidiah—beloved of the Lord.” • Pray Scripture over them; let them hear it. • When discipline is needed, anchor correction in identity: “Because you are God’s beloved, this behavior doesn’t fit who you are.” • Celebrate milestones with spoken blessings that reinforce God’s affection and purpose. God’s word through Nathan still echoes: every son or daughter entrusted to us carries the divine label “Beloved.” Aligning our parenting with that truth shapes destinies for His glory. |
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