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The relationship between parents and children is one of the most important relationships in the world. It is a relationship that is built on love, trust, and respect. The Bible provides us with guidance on how parents can raise their children in a way that honors God, and how children can honor their parents. 

One of the most well-known passages in the Bible that speaks to this relationship is found in the book of Ephesians. In Ephesians 6:1-4, Paul writes, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’—which is the first commandment with a promise—‘so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.’ Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” 

This passage speaks to both children and parents. Children are called to obey their parents in the Lord, which means that they are to obey their parents as long as it is in line with God’s will. They are also called to honor their parents, which means to show them respect and love. This commandment comes with a promise that if we honor our parents, it will go well with us and we will enjoy long life on the earth. 

Parents, on the other hand, are called to not exasperate their children. This means that they should not provoke their children to anger or frustration. Instead, they are called to bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. This means that parents should teach their children about God’s love, grace, and mercy, and how to live a life that honors Him. 

Another passage in the Bible that speaks to the parent/child relationship is found in Proverbs 13:24. It says, “Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.” This passage speaks to the importance of discipline in raising children. Discipline is not punishment, but rather it is a way to teach children how to live in a way that honors God. Discipline should be done in love and with the goal of teaching the child, not hurting them. 

In addition to these passages, the Bible also speaks to the importance of parents setting a good example for their children. In 1 Timothy 4:12, Paul writes, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” This passage speaks to the importance of setting a good example for others to follow. Parents should strive to set a good example for their children in all areas of life, including speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. 

Finally, the Bible also speaks to the importance of forgiveness in the parent/child relationship. In Colossians 3:13, Paul writes, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” This passage speaks to the importance of forgiveness in all relationships, including the parent/child relationship. Parents should forgive their children when they make mistakes, just as God forgives us when we make mistakes. 

In conclusion, the Bible provides us with guidance on how parents and children should relate to one another. Children are called to obey and honor their parents, while parents are called to not exasperate their children and to bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. Discipline, setting a good example, and forgiveness are also important aspects of the parent/child relationship. By following these principles, parents and children can build a strong, loving, and God-honoring relationship that will last a lifetime.