1. A Heritage From the Lord Psalm 127:3-5

2. Introductory Thoughts Just as a mother and father owe much to the success of a home, so do our children Children can be the difference between a happy home or a miserable home As parents, the things we demand of our children can make for a truly happy home The demands parents make are not meant to be torture, as many young people see The purpose is to make a child a responsible and productive member of society

3. Introductory Thoughts Our young people need to be taught their role in the family Parents need to be parents, not attempting to be best friends Being a parent is difficult Being a friend is the easy way out Balancing the two is a most challenging task As a child, what do I owe my parents? 4 things to observe today

4. Listen to Them - Proverbs 1:8-9 Children, You are training to be adults God’s pattern is for the parent to give this instruction Deuteronomy 6:6-9 – Proverbs 22:16 – Ephesians 6:4 Without your parents, you would be lost, destitute, and clueless Great wisdom can be found in listening to your parents Proverbs 13:1 – Proverbs 5:7-14 – Proverbs 12:1

5. Obey Them – Ephesians 6:1-3 Obey means “heed or conform to a command or an authority” Remember this is good and right in God’s sight We all need to live in obedience to the Lord We were created with this need – Ecclesiastes 12:13 Obedience is not arbitrary, but has a purpose Parents not only need to teach the need for obedience, but that obedience brings blessings No obedience results in choas rather than in cosmos, disorder rather than order

6. Volunteer to Help Them Parents are busy these days Working to provide food, clothing & shelter Working in social functions Working within the church Many other areas to be involved in I’m young, what can I do? Wash dishes – Keep your room clean Pick up after yourself – Mow the yard Volunteer your time to help others Develop the servant mentality as Jesus did

7. Enjoy Being With Them They will not always be around Poem – Do It Now Parents – Spend time with you children Make an appointment Look for unexpected opportunities Eye contact and Physical touching Be patient Take them seriously Start today

8. Concluding Remarks God has given children the blessing of parents Living with them is not a waste of time, but a period of development If you value your life you will consider God’s pattern for you in your family by showing LOVE for your parents Listen to them Obey them Volunteer to help them Enjoy being with them