DEVOTION – DAY 164

Psalm 78:5-7 “Bringing Up Our Children”

 

Ps.78:5-7 He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which He commanded our ancestors to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget His deeds but keep His commands.

This psalm reminds us of the importance of parents bringing up their children to know about God’s mighty deeds and what He had done so that their children can pass these facts on to future generations. The knowledge of God, who He is, what He has done and is doing is important. This is because this psalm reminds us all that only then, will the next generation, our children and our grandchildren know to trust in God and will obey God and His Word, the Bible.

But today, because many parents are busy trying to earn a living, parents are failing in their duties in upbringing their children properly. Some, because of circumstances, have no choice but to leave their children to be brought up by grandparents in their hometowns as they work in big cities. Some, because of career choices work long hours and do not spend enough time bringing up their children. They delegate that duty mainly to helpers and teachers. This is not ideal because this Psalm reminds us that every parent has a duty to teach their children things of God, so that they leave a lasting impression on them about who God is. In their times of difficulties, their children would be able to turn to God, just as they have done. Their children would grow up to be God fearing and God honoring if they have been brought up to know God properly. They in turn will pass it on to the next generation.

We know a couple who are actively serving God and want to honor Him. They have several children. They made sure that the whole family worshipped God. From young, all the children went for regular Bible studies. The parents often engaged their children in discussing about God. They encouraged the children to serve actively in church. Today, their children are active either in Christian youth groups in college, or actively serving in worship in church. This couple is aware they must live authentic lives as Christians, not just head knowledge, so they can be good examples for their children. They had seen how some parents tell their children to obey God and when they think their children do not know, they disobey God themselves. They cannot hide their double standards from their children. When they do that, their children will also follow their examples. So, it is important to share Godly truths and principles and to live authentic Christian lives in order to leave a lasting impression on the next generation.

 

Let us pray: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the timely reminder in Psalm 78 of the need to bring up the next generation to love, honor and obey you as you richly deserve. Help us to live and share authentic lives honoring and obeying you before the next generation always. In Jesus mighty name we pray. Amen.

 

Questions

  1. How are you teaching your children and grandchildren about God and His Word?
  2. How are you applying God’s Word daily so that you can leave a lasting impression on the next generation to follow? Share.
  3. What happens when we fail in our duties to bring the next generation up in the ways of the Lord?
  4. How can you pray for the next generation in your family and in church? Will you pray for them?