“His [Samuel’s] sons, however, did not walk in his ways, but turned aside after dishonest gain and took bribes and perverted justice.” (1 Sam. 8:3)
There are many powerful statements made throughout the word of God regarding parenting and the responsibility to train and nurture our children to walk in the Lord’s ways… but it is important to note that the Bible does also give examples of righteous men, faithful men, who’s children did not follow their father’s path.
Samuel’s sons were not good men, but their father was. They chose not to walk in Samuel’s ways. The siren’s call of money and power had more sway over their hearts than their father’s example. Could Samuel have done more? I’m sure… but the Scripture is clear. His path was not the path they chose.
Because that’s the other part of parenting. We are raising free-willed beings. They have immutable rights and freedoms to choose life and death, godliness and wickedness. Train them up, aim them well, pray for them often, and then recognize they get to choose just like you do.
“Behold, all souls are Mine; the soul of the father as well as the soul of the son is Mine. The soul who sins will die.” (Ezek 18:4)
Matt. 4:4 #Biblebites