1 Sam. 2 [The Message]

All too often the children of a spiritual leader display behavior that does not represent Christian values. Our oldest daughter, when attending Bible college, would regretfully share stories of the children of the pastors of large churches and some of the very unwise things they did. Such was the situation Eli created when he obviously neglected training his sons to behave themselves appropriately. Did he give too much time to his ministry and not enough at home? Probably. Sometimes, children cry out for attention by acting up. If their antics are not adequately corrected, they can become permanent flaws in behavior.

For this reason, the leader placing parenting even above the performance of their ministry in priority is wise. This is why the Apostle Paul says, “Church officials must be in control of their own families, and they must see that their children are obedient and always respectful.” [1 Tiim. 3:4 CEV]

Good parenting is not rocket science. It does take love directed at children so they know your love and are corrected by that love when they are wrong. Correct them while they are still pliable.