"Shepherding" Chapter 4: You're in Charge

The Bible clearly states that parents are the God-ordained authorities in their children’s lives (see for instance Ephesians 6:1-4 and the command to Abraham in Genesis 18:19). We as parents must understand that our children are ultimately God’s children, and we have been given jurisdiction over them as stewards. If we fail to exercise our authority over them with the goal to be a blessing, then our Lord will hold us accountable. Like the centurion in Luke 7, we are both in authority and under authority.

So, what does it mean to be a parent? What is involved in this role? It is more than just providing care. Parenting also involves having a clear vision and objectives for them (we’ll read more about this in the next chapter). We must have humility in our task, realizing that God’s agenda is all that matters, and that we cannot do this job well outside of a dynamic relationship with Him and outside the context of Biblical community. Parents must avoid anger and pursue righteousness (James 1:19-20).
 

Furthermore, we must be diligent to correct our children, reminding them that their sinful behavior offends a holy God.

The goal of discipline must be corrective, not punitive, to help them return to the path of God’s righteousness (II Timothy 3:16). Tripp reminds us, “Discipline is an expression of love” (Proverbs 3:12; 13:24; Hebrews 12:5-11; Revelation 3:19).

Consider how you view and present your authority to your kids. Examine your heart, and get counsel from others, to help determine if you are asserting your authority on your own or with the perspective that it is a call from God.

Related Post:  Proverbs 23 (Wisdom for Parents & Children)