| By PKD Lee |
1 Peter 5:3 – “nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock;”
The elders of the church are asked not to Lord it over the church members but rather be an example to them. If we apply this to parents, does it mean that we do not Lord over them but rather serve them?
In that case, do we serve the children by empowering them to fulfil their dreams rather than our dreams for them? If we force our dreams on them, are we serving them or imposing on them?
But, you will say, they do not know what is good for them, and so we have to take decisions for them. Sure, but can we discuss the decisions with them or do they have nothing to contribute? Do they have no learning from our life and example for them to follow?
One of the things I teach is to explain to children early in life the difference between hobbies and professions. While one is what I like to do, the other is serving people at the point of their need. Can the two be the same? Yes, at times, but often it is not. While hobbies are fun, professions earn you money not only to look after yourself but also to share with others (Eph 4:28).
Once this is understood, we need to encourage and empower our children, both in their hobbies and their future professions, which needs to be decided by them.