Parenting is not the easiest job on earth. Raising children in the way they should good—to seek the Lord first in their lives and make godly choices—can be very challenging. While, in recent decades, technology has drastically changed our world and affected the decisions that parents face, the reality is that the world hasn’t changed all that much—“nothing new under the sun” (Ecc. 1:9). That being the case, there must be some lessons that we can learn from Bible parents and apply them to our homes today. What stands out about these parents?
Noah and Mrs. Noah taught their children the importance of obedience. Can you imagine being Noah’s children and seeing their father building (perhaps by himself for a time) a 450-foot ark at the command of God? Notice that they not only saw obedience but also adopted it into their own lives as well.
Abraham and Sarah taught Isaac the strength of faith in God. Can you imagine being Isaac and laying bound on that altar while your father raised a knife above you? What amazing faith that no doubt changed his life and trust in God forever.
Elkanah and Hannah taught Samuel the power of prayer. While Samuel was obviously not alive when Hannah prayed to God for a son, his name was a constant reminder to him that his mother was “heard by God” (the meaning of “Samuel”). Prayer to God became a vital part of his life.
Zacharias and Elizabeth taught their son, John, about the coming Lord. As Joseph and Mary had a tall task of raising the Son of God, Zacharias and Elizabeth had the responsibility of training the prophet who would prepare people to hear and follow the Lord. Their greatest priority was to teach John about Jesus.
Eunice, without the help of her husband, taught Timothy the Word of God. God’s design for the home is for a faithful father and faithful mother to raise faithful children. Faith can only come from knowing the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make one wise unto salvation, so Eunice was going to make sure, even without proper support, to teach her son and build his faith.
So many other Bible parents could be listed, but here are sufficient examples of successful parents, from whom parents today can learn effective lessons.