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Principles of family hope from King David's family

While the tragic story of David’s life and sin is painful to read, there are many principles we can glean that may prove helpful to parents today – especially as it relates to the relationship between fathers and sons. You can also apply these lessons to organizational and ministry leadership positions that seek to be good parents while managing responsibilities as a leader.

1. Multiple wives and marriages. David’s unbridled desires led to tragedy in the lives of those involved.

2. Parental discipline and consequences. Parents must do the challenging work of teaching the right behavior and responding with tangible consequences for disobedience. David did neither. Consequences without a personal and genuine relationship with your children breed contempt. Every effort must be made to develop healthy relationships with children.

3. Unresolved conflict. Parents must reconcile differences and work toward healthy relationships with their adult children, especially when the children have dishonored or disobeyed them. Unresolved issues will only deteriorate the relationship.

4. Rebellion. Any hint of rebellious behavior should be taken seriously, and a swift response must be carried out. Children and youth must be taught to obey, respect, and honor their parents to live out a good life (Ephesians 6:1-3).

5. Bad company. Scripture teaches that “bad company corrupts good character” (1 Cor 15:33). Parents should pay attention to the friends their children make.

6. Favoritism for children. We don’t do our children favors when we insulate them from consequences or provide a level of favoritism.

7. Leadership role conflict. For parents who are also leaders of ministries, businesses, or organizations where we influence our children, every effort must be made to balance and prioritize loyalty to our children and the organization we serve.

Questions for Reflection:

- In what ways can you seek to develop a healthy relationship with your son or daughter?

- What is the best way to outline expected behavior and consequences to your children?

- How can parents help their children choose friends who will affirm the values taught in their home?