Topic: Non-Transferrable Responsibility [Monday 14 December, 2015]
“And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”–Ephesians 6:4
In some part of Africa, it is culturally acceptable for parents to give their children to another member of the family, assumed to be more financially stable, to assist in taking care of that child. Most times, such children are reduced to slaves and the purpose of sending that child over to that relative is undermined. The truth is: No one, no matter the promises made, can care for your child the way you would and should.
The act of sending children over to other relatives is an act of irresponsibility and should be discouraged. Some of these children are victims of rape, molestation, child abuse and other vices, and some of these parents have ended up even selling their children for money. You must understand that your child did not appeal to you before he or she was born. In fact, you consciously took steps into bringing them into this world, and so you should consciously take steps in caring and providing for their physical, spiritual and emotional needs.
Most times, children don’t need too much to be content, but they would need your “little” given in love to mean so much to them. Irrespective of your financial state, they need your active presence to function appropriately in the society. Most children given to relatives, no matter the love given to them, if they have such opportunities, will still long for the love of their biological parents.
You might think they are too little and would understand why you had to send them away when they are much older, but most times, the only thing they understand is your inability to care for them. And some might term it as lack of love. So, to prove to that child that you love him or her, you should personally ensure his or her proper upbringing. The love of a child is precious, and their future is largely linked to their childhood experiences. Therefore, ensure they have the best from you.
Remain Blessed!
Pastor Faith Abiola Oyedepo is the wife of Bishop David Oyedepo, the founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide a.k.a. Winners’ Chapel, and Senior Pastor of Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, Nigeria.