The Wife of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) FCT Province 7 Church Growth Officer, Pastor Mrs Foluke Babade has emphasized the critical importance of triumphant parenting in the modern digital age.
Speaking at the annual Sister’s Convention on Saturday in Abuja, Mrs Babade underscored the necessity of combining traditional values with contemporary challenges to raise well-rounded and morally sound children.
“Parenting is the act of bringing up, rearing, raising, and nurturing a child from cradle to adolescence,” she began, highlighting the essential role of parents in shaping the future. She explained that adolescence, the period between the onset of puberty and adulthood, is a crucial time for child development, stressing that good parenting during this stage is vital.
Quoting Genesis 18:17-19 and Proverbs 22:1-15, Mrs Babade distinguished between good and bad parenting, urging parents to adhere to biblical principles in raising their children. “The Lord said of Abraham, ‘For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment,'” she cited, emphasizing the importance of setting a strong moral example.
She addressed the need for a clear distinction between child training, child rights, and child abuse, noting that misapplication in any of these areas can destroy a child’s life. “Good parenting is now becoming archaic while bad parenting is being taken as child rights. God will help us as a church and as families,” she stated, referencing Proverbs 22:6, which advises parents to “train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
Pastor Mrs Babade outlined several essential needs of a child, from conception to early adulthood, including prayer, love, and discipline. She emphasized that the first five years of a child’s life are particularly crucial, citing the need for positive decrees and compassionate understanding.
“A child needs correction whenever necessary, understanding, and should not be overindulged,” she advised. She stressed the importance of teaching children house chores, regardless of their gender, and creating time to listen to their complaints and interests. “Be open and ask personal questions to know their friends, visit their rooms and school offices, and be a good example as a father or mother,” she urged.
In addressing the challenges of the digital age, Pastor Mrs Babade highlighted the importance of monitoring children’s use of social media and internet content. “Teach them what to look for and what not to touch, no matter the influence or temptation. They should understand that not everything they ask for should be given,” she advised.
She also emphasized the importance of teaching children integrity, hard work, contentment, and the dangers of seeking quick wealth. “Teach them to be aware of evil doctrines as the Bible warns, and to stand firm in their faith,” she said, adding that parents must encourage their children to live according to God’s word and pray regularly.
Speaking on the role of Holy Spirit, she acknowledged the Herculean task of parenting in today’s confused world, advocating for the reliance on the Holy Spirit. “For one to triumph in parenting in this jet age, we need the assistance of the Holy Spirit. It is a task we cannot accomplish on our own,” she stated, quoting 1 Peter 5:8, which warns believers to be sober and vigilant because the devil prowls like a roaring lion.
In conclusion, pastor Mrs Babade called on parents to be wise and watchful, placing their trust in God to guide their efforts in raising their children. “Surrender to Him, and He will take over your burdens, and you will rejoice evermore,” she encouraged, ending her address with a heartfelt prayer for divine assistance in the name of Jesus.
Her speech was a clarion call for parents to rise to the challenges of the digital age with faith, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to biblical principles, ensuring the next generation grows up to be morally and spiritually grounded individuals.
