Honour and Obey

Children obey your parents as you would the Lord, because this is right. Honour your father and mother, which is the first commandment with a promise, so that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life in the land. Fathers don't stir up anger in your children, but bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. Ephesians 6:1-4

Fathers are to take the lead and be involved in the discipline and raising of their children and not do so whimsically or arbitrarily but with purpose.

I watch the effect anger has on children. It crushes them and a rage begins deep inside. My father disciplined in anger and many times I would receive the strap without knowing why. At 15 He hit me across the face for something I did not do and my anger and resentment exploded.

When Chirist came into my life I knew I had to respect and honour my father and it was very difficult. I lashed out once in rage and wrote a letter to my dad but because it was not related to a particular incidence he thought I was having a bad time, and I was, try to sort out the years of rage.

However, Christ did eventually set me free and when my dad was dying I spent time every week loving him the best I could. When he died the burden lifted and I was free, a little sad for what could have been but free from trying to mend the relationship.

I saw my mum honour her mother who was a drunk. I don't ever remember hearing her say horrible things about her mother. Athough mum had 6 young children she still made time for her mum. My mum is now 80 and well, trotting around visiting all her children.