Introduction
In this episode of the Teachable Woman Podcast, Reverends Michele Owes and Diana P. Cherry continue their Parenting Series with Part 2: Love is Key. Parenting is not only for those raising children in their homes—it’s about being a godly example to every child God places in your path. Drawing from scripture, personal stories, and practical wisdom, our hosts dive into what it truly means to parent with love, discipline, and intentionality.
Show Notes
1. Parenting Beyond Birth
Rev. Michele and Rev. Diana remind us that parenting extends beyond those who have biological or adopted children. Whenever God entrusts us with the presence of children—whether nieces, nephews, or young people in our communities—we are called to guide, teach, and nurture them by living out God’s will.
2. Love as the First Ingredient
The foundation of godly parenting is love, rooted in Galatians 5:22–23, the fruit of the Spirit. Love is not permissiveness or giving children everything they want—it is unconditional, firm, and consistent, reflecting God’s love for us.
3. Correction is a Form of Love
True love includes correction. Just as God chastens those He loves, parents must lovingly discipline their children. Correction is done for children, not to them. Without teaching and correction, we risk raising children without boundaries, wisdom, or spiritual direction.
4. The Power of Choice
Rev. Diana highlights God’s gift of free will and how it shapes our responsibility as parents. Children must learn that their choices and responses are their own, not dictated by others. Teaching them to make godly choices is one of the most powerful ways to demonstrate love.
5. Teaching at All Times
Deuteronomy 6 calls parents to teach God’s Word diligently—at home, at the table, while walking, at bedtime, and upon rising. Parenting is not only providing food and shelter; it is actively instructing, modeling, and talking about God in daily life.
6. Modeling Godly Behavior
Children learn by watching more than by listening. As Rev. Diana explains, we cannot say, “Do as I say, not as I do.” Our lives must align with our words. Parents must protect what children see, hear, and experience, modeling choices that honor God.
7. Love Over Worldly Pressure
The greatest gift parents can give children is not material things, but love, attention, and spiritual guidance. Children desire to be heard, seen, and led in God’s ways. Relying on the Holy Spirit allows parents to respond in ways that shape children for eternity, not just for today.
Conclusion
Parenting is a sacred assignment from God. Love is the key that unlocks effective parenting—love that corrects, teaches, and equips children for a lifelong relationship with Christ. Whether you are raising your own children or influencing others, remember that godly parenting requires prayer, patience, and a reliance on the Holy Spirit. As Reverends Michele and Diana encourage, seek God’s wisdom daily, love unconditionally, and prepare the next generation to walk in the will of God.
