Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Parenting Without Provoking
Ephesians 6:4; Deuteronomy 6:6-9
God's instruction to fathers reveals His concern for children's hearts, not just their behavior. Provoking children through overprotection, favoritism, unrealistic expectations, or neglect breaks their spirit and breeds resentment. Instead, parents are called to "bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord"—a patient, consistent nurturing that happens in every moment. Notice Deuteronomy's beautiful picture: teaching when you sit, walk, lie down, and rise. Faith isn't transferred through occasional lectures but woven into daily life. Parents, examine your home today. Are you crushing spirits or cultivating them? For every criticism, offer two words of praise. Your children need your presence more than your perfection. Model grace, admit failures, and point consistently toward Christ. Your greatest legacy isn't perfect children but children who know a perfect Savior.
Ephesians 6:4; Deuteronomy 6:6-9
God's instruction to fathers reveals His concern for children's hearts, not just their behavior. Provoking children through overprotection, favoritism, unrealistic expectations, or neglect breaks their spirit and breeds resentment. Instead, parents are called to "bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord"—a patient, consistent nurturing that happens in every moment. Notice Deuteronomy's beautiful picture: teaching when you sit, walk, lie down, and rise. Faith isn't transferred through occasional lectures but woven into daily life. Parents, examine your home today. Are you crushing spirits or cultivating them? For every criticism, offer two words of praise. Your children need your presence more than your perfection. Model grace, admit failures, and point consistently toward Christ. Your greatest legacy isn't perfect children but children who know a perfect Savior.
Posted in In Focus Devotionals
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