Bible Text: 1 Kings 1:6 | Preacher: Pastor Joe Ricchuiti | Series: 1 Kings, The Parenting Imperative

Parenting priorities (in part from article by Dr. Stanley Toussaint):

-Partner before children (Genesis 2:24)- the priority relationship is that of marriage.  It is possible to devote so much time to children that our spouse is given second place.  Children learn about marriage, relationships between the sexes from watching their parents relationship.

-Children before friends (Psalm 127:3)

“Ten Positive Parenting Skills” (Roger & Becky Tirabassi)

1) Model your faith (Deuteronomy 6:4-9)  2) Pray regularly for your children  3) Treat your children with respect  4) Teach your children to give  5) Whenever possible, attend a church that has an excellent children’s and/or youth department  6) Say or do the things that you want your children to say or do  7) Apologize to your children when it is appropriate. Ask them for forgiveness  8) Don’t say no unless you have to  9) Be loving toward your spouse in front of your children  10) As your children get older discuss and evaluate curfews, discipline measures, expectations and finances).