Bible Reference: Proverbs 13:22, 24; 14:26; 15:20; 17:6, 21, 25; 19:13, 18, 26; 20:11, 20; 22:6, 15; 23:13-14; 28:24; 29:15, 17; 30:17 (KJV)
Raising children who walk with God is a sacred calling, one that shapes not only their lives but also the legacy of a family. Drawing from the wisdom of Proverbs, Pastor Léveillé’s sermon emphasizes the profound blessing of children, the weighty responsibility of parents, the dangers of rebellion, and the lasting testimony of a child’s character. This message offers timeless principles for parents seeking to nurture their children in godliness and for young people striving to honour God and their families.
The Blessing of Children
The book of Proverbs portrays children as a divine gift, a heritage from the Lord that brings joy and purpose to parents. Proverbs 13:22 states, “A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.” This inheritance is not merely financial but encompasses the spiritual legacy of faith and wisdom passed down through generations. Children and grandchildren become a parent’s crown, as Proverbs 17:6 declares, “Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.” A wise son brings joy to his parents (Proverbs 15:20), and a godly home provides a refuge through the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 14:26). Parents are called to cherish their children, not as burdens, but as blessings entrusted by God, meant to be stewarded with love and purpose.
The Responsibility of Parents
Parenting is an active responsibility, not a passive hope that children will naturally grow into godliness. Proverbs 22:6 instructs, “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” This training involves setting a child on a path of righteousness through example, discipline, and instruction. Discipline, as Proverbs 13:24 notes, is an act of love: “He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.” The rod, a symbol of authority and guidance, is not about punishment but about rescuing a child from their sinful nature (Proverbs 23:13-14). Parents must focus on the heart, not just behavior, building relationships rather than merely enforcing rules. As Proverbs 29:15 teaches, “The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.” Discipline, paired with love and grace, mirrors the way God parents His children, balancing correction with compassion.
The Danger of Rebellion
Proverbs warns of the heartbreak caused by a rebellious child. Proverbs 19:13 describes a foolish son as a “calamity” to his father, bringing ruin and shame. Children who dishonor their parents, curse their authority, or exploit their resources are likened to destroyers (Proverbs 20:20; 28:24). The vivid imagery of Proverbs 30:17, “The eye that mocketh at his father, and despiseth to obey his mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out,” underscores the severe consequences of rebellion. This is not merely a behavioral issue but a heart issue, a refusal to submit to God’s authority as represented by parents. Parents must address rebellion with loving correction, while children are urged to honor their parents, recognizing them as God’s appointed authorities in their lives.
The Testimony of Children
A child’s character is revealed early and shapes their future. Proverbs 20:11 states, “Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.” Small actions of honesty, respect, or rebellion in youth often foreshadow adult behavior. Parents must pay attention to patterns, not just isolated events, to guide their children toward godliness. Likewise, children and young adults are already building their testimony. As Pastor Léveillé noted, children are not merely the church of tomorrow but the church of today, capable of serving God and impacting others even in their youth. The example of King Josiah, who sought God at a young age and led a revival, illustrates the potential of a child’s early devotion to God.
Conclusion
Raising children who walk with God is both a blessing and a battle. Parents are called to see their children as a heritage, not a hassle, and to discipline them with love, not laziness. Rebellion, if left unchecked, leads to ruin, but a heart transformed by God’s grace brings rest and joy (Proverbs 29:17). For children, honoring parents and pursuing godliness is a testimony that glorifies God. As families apply these principles from Proverbs, they build a legacy that echoes beyond their lifetime, for the glory of God and the strengthening of Christian homes.
