This message speaks to the importance of raising children according to biblical principles and the challenges parents face in a culture that is increasingly hostile towards Biblical values. Children are a gift from God, and the Bible compares them to arrows in the hands of a warrior (Psalm 127:3-5), suggesting that parents are warriors engaged in a spiritual battle for their children.
This message outlines three stages of parenting: the training stage (0-10 years), the teaching stage (10-20 years), and the transition stage (20+ years), and how parents are meant to relate to their children during each of these phases of life.
Using the parables of the lost coin, the lost sheep, and the prodigal son from Luke 15, Duane encourages parents to remain steadfast in their faith and values, even when their children go astray. The father in the parable of the prodigal son stayed true to his principles while waiting for his son to "come to his senses" (Luke 15:17).
Some of our children may rebel against their upbringing, but there is hope that they will eventually return to the truth, as the prodigal son did. Duane encourages parents to pray for their children, trust God, and not compromise the truth of God's word.
It is crucial that we learn what Scripture teaches us about parenting, discipline, and remaining faithful to God, even when our children go astray. It offers encouragement to parents struggling with rebellious children, reminding them of God's love and the hope that their children will return home, just as the prodigal son did.
