I recently heard a prominent Christian leader say something that struck my heart. He was talking about rebellious teenagers and said that we often define rebellion as outward, i.e., drugs, alcohol, disrespectful actions and words; and the like. But we often don’t identify rebellion in our “good” kids when we ask them to do something and they don’t follow through, they take too long to complete a request by being asked over and over again, or they barely acknowledge a directive. But the root of rebellion is often the same. The seemingly “good” kid, or quite kid can have their own form of rebellion.

The same goes for adults. We can seem good on the outside but rebel against God when we don’t follow through with his direction, or acknowledge his promptings.

My prayer for my boys and for us as parents: “Guide me [them] in your truth and teach me [them], for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.” Psalm 25:5

Lord, I pray for my sons to be teachable and not contrary to our parental instruction. As a result, help them to obey your instruction through your scripture and Spirit. Keep their spirits pliable and tender. Guard them from the rebellious path outwardly and inwardly.

Guard our hearts as parents from rebellion against You, Father. Let our lives be an example of obedience to your promptings even when it’s difficult to stay the course.

For you are our God and Savior, our hope is in You.

Amen.