There have always been lots of books and trends on the topic of parenting.  I have found the Bible to be the best source of information, full of accurate wisdom.  

I believe no matter what cultural background you are from MANNERS MATTER.  While on a trip out of the country and being in a hotel full of guests representing numerous countries, I was really impressed and amazed by a father and his young son.

The hotel had only one elevator working, so as I got on and noticed this father and his son entering the building; I held the elevator for them; realizing the next opportunity for them might be awhile.  We spoke briefly due to me not speaking his native language and him speaking broken English.

We were all headed for the same floor.  As the elevator went up, even though I did not speak their language I could tell this father was instructing his son.  He took him aside and brought him close to him and was talking softly the whole time.  As we reached our floor and the elevator doors opened the father and son stood still and motioned to me to exist first. Wow; I was impressed!  Manners are important to teach to our children.  How to be kind and considerate of others.

“A wise son makes a father glad, but a foolish man despises his mother.”

Proverbs 15:20,

In Ephesians 6:4, the Bible instructs fathers to provide wise counsel for their children.

“And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.”

Ephesians 6:4

Another translation puts it this way:  

“Fathers, don’t exasperate your children, but raise them up with loving discipline and counsel that brings the revelation of our Lord.”

Ephesians 6:4 (Passion)

Did you know that the Bible says a “refusal to correct is a refusal to love?”  

“He who spares his rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him PROMPTLY.”

Proverbs 13:24

The Bible instructs parents to provide quick, loving discipline. 

“Chasten your son while there is hope, and do not set your heart on his destruction.”

Proverbs 19:18

Parents are instructed to be ACTIVE in parenting.  It will go better if attitudes are dealt with at a young age.  As this father did taking his young son aside and giving wise counsel.

“Correct your son, and he will give you rest; yes, he will give delight to your soul.”

Proverbs 29:17