How can children practically "obey your parents" in today's society? Setting the Foundation “Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord.” Colossians 3:20 Why God Cares About Obedience • Obedience honors the created order God designed, placing parents as loving authorities for a child’s good • Exodus 20:12 shows that honoring parents carries a promise of longevity and blessing • Ephesians 6:1-3 reaffirms the command and labels it “right” • Obedience trains the heart to submit to the Lord Himself, shaping lifelong discipleship The Attitude Behind Obedience • Cheerfulness rather than grudging compliance (Philippians 2:14) • Respectful words and tone, even when disagreeing (Proverbs 13:1) • Trust that God works through imperfect parents for a child’s growth (Romans 8:28) Practical Ways Children Can Obey Today Daily Routines • Rise on time when asked, without repeated reminders • Complete chores fully, not partially, and report back so parents see tasks finished • Finish homework or study before entertainment, reflecting diligence (Proverbs 6:6-8) School and Activities • Follow household guidelines for grades, sports, and extracurricular commitments • Communicate schedule changes promptly so parents can guide and support • Accept parental counsel on friendships and dating, recognizing their broader life perspective Technology and Media • Use phones, tablets, and gaming systems within limits parents set, remembering they protect heart and mind (Proverbs 4:23) • Share passwords or allow device checks without secrecy • Turn screens off at night when told, guarding rest and purity Speech • Respond with “Yes, Mom” or “Yes, Dad,” showing acknowledgment • Refrain from eye-rolling, sarcasm, or muttering under the breath • Express disagreements calmly, waiting for a suitable moment instead of public confrontation Money and Possessions • Handle allowance or earnings as directed, practicing stewardship under parental oversight • Tithe or give as parents teach, learning generosity early • Care for clothing, school supplies, and shared household items to avoid unnecessary expenses Peer Pressure • Inform parents about social plans before committing • Walk away from disrespectful talk about family to remain loyal • Remember that obedience may look uncool to peers yet pleases the Lord who ultimately matters When Directions Conflict with God’s Word • Scripture always holds higher authority (Acts 5:29) • If a child is told to sin, respectful refusal and seeking counsel from another trusted adult honors God while keeping the Fifth Commandment intact • Such cases are rare, yet clarity protects conscience and faithfulness Jesus as the Perfect Example “Then He went down to Nazareth with them and was subject to them.” Luke 2:51 • The sinless Son of God willingly submitted to Mary and Joseph • His obedience did not diminish His greatness; it displayed it Benefits and Promises of Obedience • Long life and well-being (Exodus 20:12; Ephesians 6:3) • Wisdom that guards and guides (Proverbs 6:20-22) • Favor with both God and people, just as Jesus grew in stature and favor (Luke 2:52) • Clear conscience and inner peace, knowing actions please the Lord Encouragement for Parents • Model the same obedience to the heavenly Father that is asked of children • Communicate expectations clearly and age-appropriately • Affirm and praise obedience quickly, mirroring the Lord’s delight in Colossians 3:20 Living It Out Together • Post Colossians 3:20 in a common area as a daily reminder • Establish family rhythms—mealtimes, devotions, chores—that make obedience concrete • Celebrate milestones of faithful obedience, reinforcing the joy of walking in God’s design |
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