“Why is the grass green?” “Why do stars twinkle?” As they get older children start to ask, “Daddy, why do I have to obey you?” There is a better reason than “Just because!” or “Because I’m bigger.” In Ephesians 6:1–4, Paul ties the answer in with God’s promise.
Children and parents. Children, obey your parents! (God is speaking directly to you here.) You must obey your parents. This may be difficult at times. Parents are sometimes arbitrary. They do err (at least that is true of me!). They are sinners. Look at the example of your Lord, who, though he was sinless, had parents who were not, Luke 2:51. Obedience is difficult because we are sinners by nature, not fond of authority. We want to do our own thing. God requires whole-hearted obedience. Honor includes your attitude, Ephesians 6:1,2. Seek active ways to obey. Obey in the Lord. Your relationship to the Lord provides the motive for obedience. Perfect obedience is found only in Christ, who obeyed perfectly, Hebrews 5:7-10. His obedience and suffering were done in your place and for your benefit. He obeyed because you don’t always obey! Gracious family life means that you depend on God’s grace.
Continue reading “Living with the Promise”
