Christian parents urged to apply Biblical counsel

Accra, Sept 14, GNA - A Watchtower article, which is being studied in more than 236 countries worldwide, at the Kingdom Halls of Jehovah's Witnesses, enjoined Christian parents to apply Bible counsel in family activities in order to make their marriages last long.

It said if Christian parents avoided practices such as viewing pornographic materials, treating family members harshly and abusive use of parental authority it would help build a unified and happy marriage.

The article, entitled “Christian Families – Follow Jesus' Example”, in July 15 2009 edition of the Watchtower, said “In his Word, Jehovah provides direction to help people maintain strong, happy families”.

It said Jesus emphasised that marriage was intended to be permanent and taught principles that when applied would help family members to avoid attitudes and conduct that threatened their marriage or family happiness.

The article said if husbands imitated the way Christ loved his disciples and laid his life for the entire humankind, they would be able to love their wives and children in order to deepen the strong bond that existed in their families.

“Jesus' treatment of his followers sets the standard for how Christian men need to treat their wives. Jesus was mild-tempered and kindly gave counsel to his disciples and did not berate or humiliate them,” it said.

The article underscored the need for husbands to establish open communication system in the family and to consult their wives on important issues that affected the entire family.

“Perhaps a decision has to be made regarding everyday matters such as where to take a vacation or how to adjust the family budget so as to cope with the rising cost of living. It would be beneficial and kind for the husband to consider his wife's opinion as it may help him arrive at a balanced, more considerate decision, and it will be easier for her to support him,” it said.

The article said that Christian wives could support their husbands in their roles as family heads, by being cooperative and submissive especially in the disciplining and training of the children.

It indicated that “A Christian wife would certainly avoid contradicting her husband or challenging his opinion in from of their children. If she disagrees with her husband about something, she would talk with him in private”.

The article urged parents to set the right examples for their children in terms of practising virtuous qualities such as being truthful, honest, kind and hospitable, and morally upright.

“If parents strive to apply Bible principles in everyday matters, this will not escape their children's notice. However, if children perceive double standard, they might draw the conclusion that Bible principles are not really important or practical,” it said.

The article said that parents needed to provide not only for the material needs of their children but also the spiritual needs as well, adding that if parents devoted ample time for their children, they would grow up to become morally upright adults who are useful to society.

It urged the youth to imitate Jesus, who refused to be tempted by the devil, in order to be bold and victorious in any temptation they may face especially at school when their peers try to involve them in rebellious acts against the authority or to engage in fights, smoking or stealing.

“Think of your model, Jesus who refused to give in to temptation and stood firm for what he knew to be right. Remembering this will help to give you the strength to tell your schoolmates clearly that you do not want to join them in doing something that you know to be wrong,” the article said.

It said Jesus left all Christians practical example of a balanced life and attitude that when followed could help husbands, wives, parents and children enjoy a satisfying and happy family life.

GNA