Hebrews 12:11 Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.
It is nice and even fitting to give children explanations where warranted, but obedience to parents cannot be tethered solely to instructions that make sense to them. Thus, “Once upon a time Isaac” refers to his faith, obedience, and the accompanying quick answers to prayer that are the sure result.
This type of faith in God seems to be in short supply in our day, and the secular concepts, and philosophies of the day are threatening to bring the experience of Isaac to near extinction. Fathers, you will experience push-back at times, but you must stand your ground in the fear of God, and in due time He will answer your prayers in behalf of your children.
Mothers, you also would be tempted severely because of your tendencies to place your emotions over principle. Yet your kindness must be balanced with firmness, or else there would be a breakdown in the chain of command. And children, it is your duty to obey your parents in The Lord, giving them the respect and the honor that is due to them, just like faithful Isaac did in days of yore.
Malachi 4:5 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: 6 And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.
May God add His blessing to the study of His word. “Good night” and God bless!