In my last post I wrote about having faithful children. Did you know the Bible also talks about raising DIGNIFIED children?
The word to pastors and elders in 1 Timothy 3:4 (AMP) exhorts pastors and elders: “He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity.” Although this is written to pastors who are to lead the way for their flocks, it is God’s plan for all parents.
I believe this Scripture means that the father uses dignity in bringing his children into subjection, but it also means that he raises them to walk in dignity. God doesn’t want unruly children, but dignified children.
The word for “dignity” is "semnotes" and means “dignity, decency, honesty, and inspiring respect and honor from other people.” Dignified children have a good testimony before the world.
When specifically speaking to the young men, Titus 2:7 (NASB) also encourages them about dignity: “In all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds, with purity in doctrine, dignified, sound in speech which is beyond reproach, so that the opponent will be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us.”
How many of us have dignified children? Dignified in their speech, conduct, clothing, and manner of life? So dignified that other people take notice.
Let’s elevate the standard and raise dignified children in this world—children who are good examples of belonging to God’s kingdom and the King of kings and Lord of lords. We must constantly remind them that they belong to royalty.
Blessings to you from Nancy Campbell