If you want to know something about parents, just ask their child. Children are so innocent and honest. They haven’t been taught to hide their feelings; they just tell it as it is. What do you think they would tell us about the way we live our lives today? Here are some thoughts:
- We are too busy.
Rushing from one thing to the next is not ideal for a child. If your child is saying, “I’m bored,” it is probably because they have been programmed to go constantly. Children, as well as adults, need to know how to “be still and know I am God.”
- My ball games and school programs are very important to me.
Parents are not as faithful in attending the regular events their child participates in because of work schedules or other activities. Kids need a “cheering section,” encouragement and support. This is a detail that sometimes goes unnoticed but makes a huge difference.
- I want to be just like my parents.
What kind of example are you? Your children watch everything you do and hear everything you say. Their moral values are formed by the time they are nine years old. Does your home life match the life you display to others in public? Do you say you love God and obey His Word, but never read the Bible, pray or talk about God at home? Remember, your child will one day be teaching your grandchild the same way you taught him or her!
- I wish we could have more fun!
When is the last time you laughed? Life is hard and troubles come, but kids need to know that home is a safe place where laughter is common. When the home is tense, the child can become stressed and begin all kinds of physical and emotional problems. Tell silly jokes, laugh at each other, watch funny movies together and just play. God created a wonderful world for us to enjoy and the sound of laughter can make any day better! Above all else, children need to see parents who love God, love each other and love them.