Date: 8-28-14
Text: Proverbs 28:23 He who rebukes a man will in the end gain more favor than he who has a flattering tongue. [NIV84]
The Big Idea: A parent’s reward comes much later than sooner.
Perhaps you are like me: As a parent, I so desperately want for my children to like me. As I look around, I see many a parent who desire this. They desire it so much so that they appear to forego being a parent and very early on act more like their child’s friend. Yet, I’m sure you also know, that if we do not endure their tears when they are young, we will definitely cry later. We have to remember that a parent’s reward comes much later than sooner.
Lifestyle worshipers, this morning’s Proverb can be applied to our parenting as well. Paraphrasing: “Parents who discipline their child will in the end gain more respect/favor than a parent who offers their child inflated praise.” In an age where everyone gets a trophy just for being on the team, or praise for any effort, we need to remember that correction and discipline are necessary for healthy, wholesome growth.
As a coach, I desire my players to be their best, and I cannot afford to offer inflated praise or inaccurate assessments. If I did, they would soon be proven a lie on the court or the field. The same in true with parenting, don’t you think? Have you found that a parent’s reward is later than sooner?
Scriptures to Renew Your Thoughts
Lord Jesus Christ, be the parent in my Life as I discipline and correct my child(ren) in Love. May I realize that as their Mom/Dad, who Loves them dearly, I have a responsibility to be their parent first and then their friend. In Your Name Amen.
Pastor Mike