Doing What’s Right
Parents Who Raise Their Children in the Discipline and Instruction of the Lord.
At Living 24:15, we believe that the transformation of a generation begins in the hearts of parents and extends into the home. For this reason, before correcting behavior, we are called to examine our motivations, our attitudes, and how we reflect Christ within our families.
In the previous article, we reflected on how, often without realizing it, parents can provoke anger, frustration, or discouragement in their children instead of guiding them toward a life of faith, security, and purpose. The exhortation of Ephesians 6:4 remains clear and relevant: “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.
We recognize that there are times when children react with anger without an apparent cause. However, it is also true that, in many cases, the home's atmosphere deeply influences a child’s heart. Although each person is responsible for their own actions, God has entrusted parents with a greater responsibility: to shape, guide, and protect the unity of the home.
Upbringing Is More Than Providing Is Nurturing
Ephesians 6:4 says, “bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” The verb translated “bring them up” carries the idea of nourishing or sustaining. A believing husband is called to care for his wife and children by sharing love and encouragement in the Lord.
Therefore, it is not enough to provide for children physically—through food, money, and clothing, as expected of parents, they must also nurture and sustain them emotionally and spiritually.
At Living 24:15, we recognize that raising children is not simply reacting to behavior; it is intentionally shaping the heart. It goes beyond meeting physical needs. The biblical vision points to nurturing, sustaining, and developing the whole life of a child.
Disciplining in Love: Shaping the Heart, Not Just Correcting Behavior.
In today’s culture, discipline is often misunderstood. Some view it as harshness, while others avoid it altogether. Yet, in God’s design, discipline is an intentional expression of love. God disciplines those He loves (Hebrews 12:6), and this same principle has been entrusted to us as parents.
The word “discipline” carries the idea of instruction through personal discipleship. Even when some view discipline as harshness or do whatever it takes to avoid it, discipline is a foundational principle of life, an expression of love, and a higher form of teaching that shapes a child’s character.
We must, however, ensure that we discipline our children in the right way. First and foremost, we must discipline in love, not in anger—lest we harm the child’s body, spirit, or both. If we are not disciplined as parents, we will not be able to discipline others.
At Living 24:15, we believe that discipline means walking alongside, correcting, teaching, and redirecting with purpose. It is everyday discipleship.
For this reason, we affirm: Discipline must come from love, not anger. It must be consistent, not impulsive. It must shape character, not just modify behavior. It must aim at the heart, not just outward obedience.
Loving discipline creates security. Even when a child disagrees, they learn something profound: “I am loved. I matter. My parents are committed to my good.”
The Goal: Forming Lives That Reflect Christ
The goal is not just to raise “well-behaved” children, but to form men and women who know God, love the truth, and live with purpose. This includes guiding children to grow and develop the potential God has given them. Parents must use not only their actions in raising their children, but also their words. We know that our children will not always appreciate our counsel, but this does not remove our responsibility to instruct and encourage them. Our teaching must always be rooted in the Word of God.
The apostle Paul exhorted young Timothy with these words: “But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. 15 You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 17 God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. 2 Timothy 3: 14-17. (NTV)
To raise children is to educate, train, and support their holistic development in four key areas of life: 1. Physical: caring for their health and well-being. 2. Spiritual: leading them to know God personally. 3. Character: cultivating virtues that reflect Christ. 4. Social: preparing them to live wisely in the world.
Our words matter. Our actions teach. Our example leaves a lasting mark. Even when our children do not immediately appreciate instruction, we continue to sow in faith, trusting that God’s Word will accomplish its purpose.
A Call to Live What We Teach
“But bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” This call is not a quick formula, but a daily commitment. It is not only about meeting external needs, but about forming lives according to the heart of God.
At Living 24:15, we believe that parenting is a spiritual act, not just a practical one. The home is the first place of discipleship. Parents are instruments of restoration in God’s hands.
Raising children in the discipline and instruction of the Lord means taking responsibility to guide them according to God’s will—formed in His image and likeness.
When we choose to live what we teach, God begins to do something powerful: He restores what was broken, heals what was wounded, and establishes a legacy that transcends generations.
Because in the end, living 24:15 is not just a statement… it is a way of life.
Dad’s hugs!
Let’s meet in the neighborhood with a cup of coffee!
By: Dr. Rafael (Rafy) Gutierrez
Director/Founder: 24:15 Ministry
Copyright 2026.
