Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— 3 “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” – Ephesians 6:1 – 3

Hands up if you’ve pulled out this passage when your children are being naughty… sometimes it’s tongue in cheek, but sometimes we’re serious. It’s easy to fall on the authority of the bible when you’re at your wits end because your child hasn’t listened, or your teen gives you attitude.  

The fifth commandment tells us to honour our mothers and fathers – and obedience is one way we live that out.  

But what we often miss is the bit that follows in verse 4 – the bit where it tells us parents our part of the bargain. 

We saw last week in a marriage relationship each person has a part to play in submitting to, and lifting up, the other. Likewise, this commandment for children to obey their parents falls within a mutual responsibility. It’s so much easier to obey your parents when their commands are within the context of what God has established – rather than out of anger or selfish motives. 

End with some time with God. Parents, thank him for the privilege of raising his children. If you are a child, maybe ask him for wisdom in how to honour and obey your parents.  

Vicki Meehan – Creek Road