Baptist City Blog

Every parent would love to have a failsafe plan on training their children to turn out right. The problem is that children have their own will, and the parent cannot control it. However, a parent can instill certain training methods that will give them the best chance for their children to turn out right for the LORD. In Proverbs 29:15-18, God gives the parent five things they must do to help raise children who “give delight” unto their soul.

First, there must be consequences for wrong actions. Verse 15 says, “The rod and reproof give wisdom…” A parent who never punishes their child for wrong is a parent headed for heartache. There are consequences in life, and a child must learn that inside the home. A child will learn there are consequences the hard way if a parent doesn't punish them for wrong. It is not mean or hateful to punish a child for wrong, but it is loving them and preserving them from greater consequences that affect them for the rest of their lives.

Second, accountability must be present with every child. Verse 15 continues by saying, “…a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.” Children need to be accountable as to where they are at all times. Children should be accountable as to the places they go and the people they are with at all times. Always ask your child who will be present when they want to go somewhere. Furthermore, show up unexpectedly at the places your children are supposed to be so they know that you are making sure they are going to do right all the time.

Third, know your child’s companions. Very 16 says, “When the wicked are multiplied, transgression increaseth…” If I asked you who your children spend time with, would you know all their friends? You should! Part of parenting is teaching your child what type of friends to have. One way to do that is to be personally involved by knowing their friends, and also at times telling them they cannot be friends with someone who would be a wrong influence.

Fourth, every parent needs to correct wrong actions. Correction is not the same as consequences. Correction is showing a child where they did something wrong, and teaching them how to do it better. When you are personally involved with your children, you will at times have to correct them and let them know they shouldn't do things a certain way. Correction is more verbal than consequential. You are preparing that child for life, and there are times when you must show them how to do things better. You will find that you can win their heart by correcting them so they can do better. Children will appreciate the correction when they experience the success that results from it.

Fifth, every parent needs a vision for their child. Verse 18 says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish…” If you have no vision for your child, you are bound to lead them nowhere. You should have a vision for your child to serve the LORD with their lives. Your children belong to God, and it is your responsibility to raise them to live in His purpose and not for your dreams.

Nobody can guarantee your children will do right, but if these things are practiced, you have the best chance for them to turn out right for the LORD.