A Timely Message for
MOTHERS
SINGLE MOTHERS
INTENDING MOTHERS
“No matter how smart your child is, remember he or she is still a child.”
— Chris Oyakhilome
Shaping Destinies Through Responsible Parenting
At the recently concluded LoveWorld Ladies Convention, Chris Oyakhilome delivered a deeply impactful message on the third day of the event—one that resonates profoundly with the mission of the Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International (COFI): building a better world through strong values and empowered individuals.
Speaking to thousands of women and mothers from around the world, Pastor Chris emphasized the critical role of discipline in raising children who will become responsible citizens and leaders. His message was both practical and spiritual, reminding parents that raising a child is not merely a duty—it is a divine responsibility.
Why Discipline Matters
In today’s culture, many parents are tempted to follow their children rather than lead them. Out of affection, pride, or confusion, they give children unchecked freedom, mistaking early intelligence for maturity. But as Pastor Chris clearly explained:
“Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child.”
(Proverbs 22:15)
Children need correction, structure, and spiritual guidance—not to suppress their potential but to protect and refine it. True love for a child is expressed not through indulgence, but through consistent, loving discipline. Without it, the future of that child—and the society they grow into—may be at risk.
A Child-Led Home is a Troubled Home
Drawing from the Scriptures, Chris Oyakhilome referenced Ecclesiastes 10:16 and Isaiah 3:4 to show how destructive it is when a society or household is ruled by children. He cautioned against the trend of child-led parenting, where young ones decide when to attend church, what to believe, and how the home is run.
“When a child decides what happens in the home, you are in danger. A child must be disciplined.”
Children learn quickly how to control environments and exert pressure. If not properly guided, this can lead to rebellion, confusion, and instability later in life. The absence of discipline in childhood is often a seed that grows into a tree of problems in adulthood.
Mothers: Custodians of the Future
As a foundation committed to breaking cycles of poverty, ignorance, and injustice, COFI recognizes that every child carries within them the potential to change the world. But this potential must be nurtured intentionally. Chris Oyakhilome reminded mothers that they are not just caregivers—they are custodians of destinies.
“To be a mother is about a future.
If the child becomes a blessing to others, credit to you.
If the child becomes a worry to others, blame on you.”
Whether you’re a mother, a single parent, or someone preparing to raise children in the future—your role is sacred. By teaching, praying, and disciplining your children, you are shaping leaders, innovators, and community builders.
A Message in Alignment with COFI’s Mission
This powerful teaching is perfectly aligned with COFI’s vision to improve the lives of children and families through education, empowerment, and values-based leadership. Building strong families is the foundation for building strong nations.
When we raise children who are thoughtful, respectful, and morally grounded, we are laying the bricks for a better world.
Final Reflections
This message from Chris Oyakhilome was not just parenting advice—it was a prophetic charge to mothers and caregivers to embrace their divine role with intentionality and courage. It was a reminder that discipline is love in action, and the home is the first place where a child learns values, purpose, and faith.
As we invest in education and healthcare through COFI’s various initiatives, we also call on every mother and guardian to invest spiritually and emotionally in the lives of the children entrusted to them.
Let us raise children who will bless their world—not burden it.
