Week 4 | Peruse Your Child’s Heart

Parenting is more than rules and discipline—it’s about reaching your child’s heart. In this message, Pastor Ryan Rice teaches from Ephesians 6:1–4 on how children are called to obey and honor their parents, while parents are called to nurture, guide, and disciple their children in the Lord. God’s design for the family is that both children and parents flourish under His authority and grace.

Main Truth:

Parenting is about shaping hearts, not just behavior. God calls parents to lovingly disciple their children, pointing them toward Christ, while children honor their parents as an act of obedience to the Lord.

Main Points:

1️⃣ Children Obey and Honor (vv. 1–3) – Obedience and honor bring God’s blessing and are foundational to a flourishing life.

2️⃣ Parents, Do Not Provoke (v. 4a) – Avoid harshness, discouragement, or anger that hardens a child’s heart.

3️⃣ Bring Them Up in the Lord (v. 4b) – Parenting means discipleship: teaching, modeling, and guiding children in the ways of Christ.

Takeaway:

A healthy family doesn’t just enforce rules—it disciples hearts. When parents lead with love and children respond with honor, families reflect the heart of God to the world.

🙏 We’d love to hear from you! What’s one way you can disciple your child’s heart this week? Share with us or let us know how we can pray for your family.