Introduction: Parenting or grandparent is not easy, if we want to honor our Lord while passing down a lasting legacy. However, there are several biblical admonitions which give instructions for the task.

1. What is Nurturing?

The word “nurturing” is παιδεία: (pahee-di’-ah), which means discipline, training and education of children, also instruction; chastisement, correction.

As one can see, there is a balance in being top heavy …either UNDER DISCIPLINE or OVERLY OVER BEARING. Only God the Holy Spirit can keep one balanced (Eph 5:18). Due to our failures in the past, we have a tendency to go OVERBOARD with our children to try to insure they do not make the same mistakes. While that is not all bad, it can lead to having blind spots in other areas besides the ones we adamantly enforce. Because of that, if we are not cautious and careful, we neglect to see the big over all picture with our families.

2. What does Admonition mean?

“And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” (Eph 6:4)

The word “admonition” is νουθεσία: (noo-thes-ee’-ah), which means a warning, admonition, counsel.

Godly admonition is greatly needed today. Why? Because of rebellion and lawlessness, our families and homes are suffering immensely. However, our Lord, through the pen of Paul, informs every parent and grandparent the key to keeping the balance. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we are able to get back on track. 

Conclusion: Parenting and grandparenting takes a lot of GRACE! Unconditional LOVE. FORGIVENESS. OBEDIENCE. Really any relationship requires the same. Having studied the topic, a few final words are needed. Keep up the difficult task. Be encouraged. Lay down a good foundation. Practice pointing our loved ones to Jesus. Set the example before them.

Pray, pray, and pray.