I have never met anyone who has never been a child. I have met some that are too old to be children. We all pass through this tumultuous and, at times, awkward valley of learning. What can we do to traverse this plain with as little pain as possible? Here are some ideas.
One, all children (no matter how old) should be respectful to their parents and adults. The Proverbs are full of this concept (1:8-9; 2:1-5; 3:1-2; 11-12; 4:1; 5:1). The idea is not just being nice but actively listening to what the parent is trying to impart to the child. God has the expectation that we will listen to our parents and learn from them. We have seen earlier that God has the expectation that parents will be teaching their children. In the Old Testament, there are some very strict laws concerning those who would disrespect their parents (Ex. 21:15, 7). We do not see the same severity in the New Testament. However, this passage does harken back to those roots, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother (which is the first commandment with a promise), So that it may be well with you, and that you may live long on the earth” (Eph. 6:1-3).
Two, we must be obedient. “Children, be obedient to your parents in all things, for this is well-pleasing to the Lord” (Col. 3:20). Ephesians states “in the Lord.” There are parents that lead lives that are contrary to the word of God. As much as possible we must have lives that are in harmony with them. However, there may come a time when we must obey God rather than men (Acts 4:19). We should also understand that if we are not obedient there will be consequences. Discipline is given to those who are loved and cared for (Heb. 12:5-6). Those that are not loved do not receive correction (Heb. 12:7-8). We should respect those that correct us and take the time to care (Heb. 12:9). The result of this correction should be holiness and righteousness (Heb. 12:10-11).
Lastly, we have the responsibility to be obedient to God no matter what our parents have done or not done. There comes a time when everyone is accountable to God no matter what kind of past they had. We can no longer hide behind the excuse of our upbringing. “How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word” (Psa. 119:9). “Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near when you will say, ‘I have no delight in them’” (Ecc. 12:1).
We have a responsibility toward our Earthly parents and our heavenly Father. These things, when done correctly, should be in harmony with the family and God’s word.