TOM 05/03 Mother's Day Message (Mother's Day 2003) -- May 11, 2003 ©2003 / Faithful Word Ministries 43:07 minutes

"Mother's Day Message (Mother's Day 2003)" - Rev. Steve Michels Deuteronomy 6:4-7; Exodus 20:12; Ephesians 6:1-4; Proverbs 22:6; 1:8; 2:1-4; 6:20-23; 31:28; 10:1; 23:24, 25 God’s Word clearly speaks of the importance of motherhood. A mother is a teacher, counselor, trainer and friend. She comforts the hurting heart, encourages the downtrodden spirit, chastens foolish behavior and compliments that which is admirable. She is an accountant, purchasing agent, housekeeper, and often the taxi driver. She is a nurse, coach, and a chef. Christian mothers have the joyful privilege of exposing their children to a life of godliness, both by Word and as a living example. Transforming a young life, the building of character, is a matter of heart, not laws. True Biblical character is developed from the inside out, not forced from the outside in. Mothers carry the burden of befriending their children. They have the responsibility of teaching and training their children at home. Mothers are to instill in their children a reverence for God and His Word. In turn, their children will honor and be a blessing to their mothers, and society. Mothers teaching their children about godliness and show them by living virtuously. Children feel most secure when they are in a household with a mother and father who are consistent. A child left to himself who does not receive consistent instruction will be provoked to wrath. Ten P’s of Christian Parenting Principles — children need instruction for godly living. They need not only spiritual education, but the insights of how to apply Biblical truths in all facets of life. Pattern — children not only hear our words, but read out lives. Our work habits, stewardship of the material things God has blessed us with, devotion to God, are all observed with impressionable eyes. Persistence — children need to security of parental consistency. Educating our children in the ways of the Word requires training, not just teaching. Prayer — We pray for our children and with them. Seeing and hearing us pray opening our hearts to God day after day will be a demonstration to our children. Praise — This is as important as reproving and correcting. Praise builds confidence and self-esteem. Through praise we win their hearts and it allows the door to open for us to teach them spiritual things. Participation — We should get involved as much as possible in all their interests and activities. It demonstrates care and concern. Play — We should have fun with our children and enjoy their company. Planning — We schedule time to be with them. Patience — Sometimes our children change or grow at a snail’s pace. We must remain faithful, persistent, and with patience keep loving, teaching, disciplining and training. Priority — We only get one opportunity to train up our children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord! Our investment in instilling truth for godly living can yield a high return — we are dealing with eternal ramifications.