Colossians 3:21

21 Fathers,^[a] do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.

Colossians 3:21 in Other Translations

21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.

21 Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.

21 Fathers, do not aggravate your children, or they will become discouraged.

21 Parents, don't come down too hard on your children or you'll crush their spirits.

21 Fathers, do not exasperate your children, so they won't become discouraged.

Colossians 3:21 Meaning and Commentary

Colossians 3:21

Fathers, provoke not your children to anger
(See Gill on Ephesians 6:4).

lest they be discouraged;
or disheartened and dispirited; their spirits be broke through grief and trouble, and they become indolent, sluggish, and unfit for business; or, despairing of having any share in the affections of their parents, disregard their commands, instructions, and corrections, and grow obdurate, stubborn, and rebellious.

Colossians 3:21 In-Context

19 Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.

20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.

21 Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.

22 Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord.

23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters,

Footnotes

• [a]. Or "Parents"