Harmony in the home: How should you obey your parents

As a Christian, you are likely familiar with the verse, 

"Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right" (Ephesians 6:1). 

There are other similar verses, such as "Honor your father and mother," that further emphasize the importance of obedience and respect towards parents. 

Undoubtedly, these words hold great significance in shaping our lives, relationships, and spiritual growth.

However, the path of obedience is not always an easy one to tread. 

There are moments when you might find it difficult to comprehend your parents' intentions fully. 

It is not uncommon to question if their decisions are truly for your good or if they are merely controlling. 

Moreover, you may fear missing out on opportunities due to the choices they make on your behalf.

Nonetheless, the mandate to obey your parents remains an integral part of God's commandments.

In this article, we will guide you in navigating the complexities of obedience.

While some argue that the term "children" only applies to literally those of young age, this article will focus on how teens and adults can effectively obey their parents.

The relationship between parents and children

In the verse, Apostle Paul places significant emphasis on the relationship between children and parents within the context of Christian living. 

He underscores the interconnectedness of this familial bond. 

Here, he asserts that it cannot be truly right unless the relationship between husband and wife is also right. This correlation stems from the fact that parents ideally form the foundation of the family unit. 

As a result, a harmonious marriage between them sets the tone for a stable and nurturing environment in which children can flourish. 

You also need to explore its limitations as the verse advises that you should obey your parents in all things.

Indeed, the command is clear. But remember that obedience should never compromise your devotion to God and His law. 

If your parent were to ask something contrary to God's commandments, your allegiance should always be to God above all else.

A close example of this principle is found in the life of Jesus himself. 

In His youth, Jesus went with his parents to Jerusalem to attend the Festival of the Passover.

After the festival was over, he remained at the temple in the city while Mary and Joseph were returning home.

In this story, Mary said to him, “Son, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you.”

Jesus replied saying, “Why were you searching for me?” he asked. “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?”

Why you should obey your parents

While there may be an exemption to the rule of obeying your parents, aligning your obedience with God's plan can bring many benefits to your life. 

Here are some of them.

Obeying your earthly parents is learning how to also obey God

As you submit to the authority and guidance of your parents, you develop a sense of discipline and humility. These are then essential virtues in your relationship with God. 

Moreover, you cultivate a receptive heart, prepared to heed God's commands and follow His divine path for your life.

It leads you to the path God has made for you

As you trust and respect your parents' guidance, they can offer valuable insights and wisdom. These can then aid you in making decisions aligned with God's will.

In return, you will be able to avoid pitfalls and instead experience immense spiritual and practical blessings in your life.

How to obey your parents

Now that you understand the compelling reasons why obeying your parents is essential, it is time to translate this knowledge into action. 

Here are ways that you can obey your parents.

Follow their rules

Wholeheartedly follow your parents' specific rules and guidelines, such as adhering to a curfew or respecting boundaries for internet usage. 

Your understanding and respect for their authority and decisions create an atmosphere of trust and harmony within the family. This is while also prioritizing their wisdom and experience that aims to protect and guide you on the right path.

Offer help without being asked

Proactively seek opportunities to offer assistance to your parents. 

Step forward without being prompted to help with household chores, run errands, or support them during busy times. 

Your initiative fosters a sense of unity and solidarity as you work together as a family.

Avoid lying

Embrace honesty as a foundational virtue that forms the bedrock of trust in your relationship. 

Even when faced with challenging circumstances, practice truthfulness to illustrate your commitment to integrity and moral principles. 

Moreover, this fosters an environment of transparency and openness at home, where honest conversations and discussions allow everyone to feel valued and understood.

Complete your responsibilities

Embrace a diligent approach to fulfilling your responsibilities.

Whether it involves completing school assignments, taking care of household tasks, or attending to personal commitments, your commitment to fulfilling these obligations demonstrates maturity and reliability. 

Responsible behavior reflects positively on you. 

Moreover, it contributes to the smooth functioning of your family as it lessens the burden on your parents and promotes a sense of shared responsibility.

Be thankful

Take the time to express gratitude to your parents for their love, support, and sacrifices. 

Verbal affirmations or thoughtful gestures serve as heartfelt reminders that their efforts are valued and cherished.

Communicate your thoughts with respect

Engage in open and respectful communication with your parents to nurture an environment of trust and understanding. 

For instance, when sharing your thoughts, feelings, or concerns, maintain a respectful tone and attitude to acknowledge the significance of your parents' viewpoints.

Actively listen 

Practice active listening when your parents share their thoughts or concerns by giving them your undivided attention. 

It is because attentively listening validates their feelings and perspectives, demonstrating your care and empathy for their experiences.

Adopt their virtues and take lessons from their shortcomings

Observe and adopt the positive virtues and qualities your parents embody, such as patience, compassion, or resilience.

Moreover, recognize and learn from their shortcomings to gain valuable insights into the complexity of human nature and relationships, allowing you to approach situations with greater empathy and understanding.

Avoid grumbling

When facing challenging or less desirable circumstances, choose to avoid grumbling or complaining to illustrate your resilience and positive outlook on life. 

Instead, embrace an attitude of contentment and appreciation and try to understand that what they’re asking of you may be for your good.

Accept corrections

Embrace corrections and constructive criticism from your parents with humility and a willingness to learn. 

View corrections as opportunities for improvement rather than personal attacks to recognize that your parents' guidance is motivated by love and a desire to see you flourish.

Harmonious home

Choosing obedience to your parents doesn't imply an absence of individuality or voice. Rather, it signifies a profound recognition of the significance of family and the value of God-given authority. 

Embrace this principle, and you will cultivate essential virtues such as patience, humility, and empathy, which are vital for nurturing healthy relationships within the family. 

Moreover, as you navigate the challenges of obedience, remember that the path may not always be smooth, but the rewards are profound. 

With this being said, practice obedience with sincerity and love.

You will not only honor your parents. But you will also show your devotion to God's divine plan for your life and family.

In doing so, you pave the way for a home filled with harmony, where God's love and grace abound.

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