As parents, our God-given mission is to guide our children to grow in faith, wisdom, and discernment!
One of the best ways to guide our children to grow in faith and wisdom is to be present. Children need us as parents to listen and not just show up because we have to.
Some ways you can be more present in your child’s life:
- Be consistent regarding your child’s emotions. Your child needs to know what to expect from you emotionally. If you get angry quickly and react differently when something happens, you could make your child feel unsafe and worrisome if something were to happen in the future.
- Be present. Don’t be an absent father or mother. Don’t dismiss your kids when you’re busy or tired- their childhood won’t last forever.
- Keep your promises. We have a world filled with people who break their promises. If you don’t keep your promises, you are giving your child the impression that they are not important or that you don’t care about their feelings.
- Morality and ethics are important. Do you live what you preach? Dr. Canfield states, “We do serious damage when our actions completely contradict what we teach. Few things do more damage to children than fathers who spout moral absolutes but live out a double standard.”
- Be consistent in your behavior. Children feel safe when their parents show up for them not only emotionally but psychically as well. Malachi 4:6 states, “He will turn the hearts of the parents to their children, and the hearts of the children to their parents; or else I will come and strike the land with destruction.”
Article Mentioned:
- “What Consistency Looks Like in a Dad: 5 Keys,” by Ken Canfield, is an article that outlines how to be a more consistent father (it also applies to mothers).
Get a cup of coffee, take about ten minutes to recharge your batteries, and equip your mind so you can raise warriors for Christ that will stand firm in the face of evil! Occasionally, we will be giving away free books – so stay tuned! My team and I are here to serve you all for the glory of our Lord!
