Train Up a Child

Train Up a Child…

Rica Martin

A Steward is a custodian, an agent or attendant.  We've all heard of being a good steward over our finances, but what about being a good steward over our children?  As a parent, what does this mean to you?  Is it buying them that desired outfit or pair of shoes?  Is it giving them your last dollar?  Is it giving them a hug or constantly saying 'I love you'?  Is encouragement all that you have to give?  Though these things are a part of being a good steward, the essential element in good parental stewardship is to give them, tell them, show them and prepare them for the Truth.  Why?  Because '…the truth shall make you free (John 8:32).  How do we get to the truth?  Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life…(John 14:6).

Unfortunately, some of our 'truths' are based on a distorted view of reality formed from various disappointments in life; but the Word has proven itself time and time again; it doesn't change and it will never let you down.  Sure there are children who have been trained up in the right way, but have gone astray…but the Word assures you that he won't ever forget what he's taught, train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old he will not depart from it (Pro 22:6). 

Anyone can be a Mother or Father, that's our title, but it takes work, patience, priority and understanding to be a Mom or Dad.  Parents have to know that it's more than just having a cute baby with a head full of good hair.  It's more than dressing them in the latest gear.  It's more than just someone of their own to love.  It's more than just another way to keep the one they don't want to let go of.  IT'S AN ASSIGNMENT from God!!!  It's one of the most detailed report we'll work on (besides our own) with an anticipated due date 18 years from birth.

An Assignment is a job, duty, mission or task.  We are God's (earthly) agent given a task; to prepare our children not just for success but more importantly for the Father.  Prepare the child by teaching him/her about our Savior Jesus Christ…no man cometh unto the Father, but by him (John 14:6).  Make them high on your list of priorities.  Invest quality time with them.  Include them in decision making.  Be transparent with them (without glorifying the negative).  Talk to them (until they yawn through their nose).  Deal with issues; teach them about consequences and rewards.

Let's always remember that God lends us our children and gives us terms and instructions on how to maintain and keep His creation.  Just like any other loan, some loans mature; some go into default; and some loans are paid off early (some with penalty)…

We often make things harder than what they are, especially when dealing with God, so let's relate to how this works.  Consider the Promissory Note (contract); the lender loans the borrower money and by signing the Note the borrower is agreeing to the lender's terms of repayment.  In this Note there are terms and obligations on maintaining the security (house, car, etc).  The Note always has a first payment due date and a predetermined maturity date.

Every child is purposed to be here…no matter what the circumstance was surrounding their birth.  God knew us all before the foundation of the world and created each day with us in mind.  It is inevitable that the time will come to turn in your assignment. 

While you have the time, go over your work; make changes where necessary so that you'll be able to give a good report when your assignment is complete.  If you've already turned in your assignment-don't fret beloved-just remember the maturity date was predetermined by the maker …find peace in knowing that its purpose has already been accomplished.