MESSAGE NOTES:

TALK ABOUT IT:

1. Identify a godly family that you admire. What is it about this family that inspires and encourages you?

2. Read Ephesians 6:1-9 and discuss. Describe your relationship with your parents growing up. What did

they do well? Were there any rules that frustrated you?

3. Read Ephesians 6:1-3 and discuss. What does it mean for children to honor their parents? Why shouldkids obey their parents? What kinds of things can parents do to elicit obedience from their kids?

4. Read Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and discuss. As a parent, what are 1 or 2 things you want your kids to know about God? What are you doing to demonstrate that aspect of God's character to your kids?

5. Read Ephesians 6:4 and discuss. As a group, list 10 ways a parent can exasperate their kids. Which one of these is the greatest struggle for you?

6. Read Ephesians 6:4 again and discuss. What are 5-10 things parents can do that help a child feel loved and affirmed (the opposite of 'exasperated')? Which 1-2 of those will you emphasize this week - and how?

7. Read Ephesians 6:5-9 and discuss. Even though these verses DON'T apply directly to families (no, your kids are not your slaves! :) ) - are there any principles here that could augment your family experience