When our children feel comfortable talking about anything with their parents, a bond of trust is formed. And they are more likely to seek your input on important decisions or things they are being tempted by.
The world will tell you children do not respect your opinions, but studies show just the opposite—children value their parents and your input. How you share with them is as important as what you share with them. Do not just tell them what they should or shouldn’t do—but explain why and the potential consequences of their actions. Use the wisdom of God’s Word and your own experiences to help them develop understanding and wisdom.
Share with them some of the bad choices you made as a young person—and explain why you have come to regret them. Teach them from your years of experience and subsequent wisdom.
These days, you cannot talk about sex at too young of an age. The NEA is hoping to mandate sex education for young people as early as 6—so if you do not speak to them from a biblical and parental perspective, they will only learn what the NEA wants them to learn—and you do not want to be in that position.
Don’t just talk at your children, but talk with them. Don’t discount their thoughts as “childish”—they feel what they feel—acknowledge that you understand how they could feel that way, but use the Word of God and your own attained wisdom to point out the other side of the argument. Teach them that actions have consequences—and do not shirk from pointing out worst case scenarios. Always assure them that you value and love them—and that God also values and loves them—but He loves them so much He will allow consequences for bad choices—so they will learn from their mistakes.
- Word on the Way
- He cast out the spirits with a word, and healed all who were ill. This was to fulfill what was spoken through Isaiah the prophet: 'He Himself took our infirmities and carried away our diseases.'
- — Matthew 8:16-17