Model Marriage by Bishop Dag Heward Mills

Chapter 57

Parenting and What it Involves

Principles of Child-Upbringing

Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart

from it.

Proverbs 22:6

Parents must understand that what their children become is dependent on the kind of training
they have received. The best training you can give your children is to instil godly and Christian
principles in them.

The most important thing for you (as a parent) is also the most important for your child. If
God is the centre of your life, then guarantee that Christ Jesus and him crucified, is the same to
your child.^1 When it comes to bringing children to church, letting them join the children’s service,
teaching them how to give offerings, etc., some parents do not want to do so.

The following principles should guide you as parents in carrying out your God-given
responsibility of training your children.

Principle No. 1 – Your Priority for Your Children Is to Bring

Them up in the Lord

Know what you are investing in, and put in your best efforts. What your children become
should reflect you. If you are a pastor for example, and you do not want your child to be a pastor,
you are a hypocrite. Teach your child to fear the Lord and to serve him.^2

And, ye fathers,....bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

Ephesians 4:6