Practical idea: Share this helpful article with your children’s ministry volunteers and parents.
“Character is like a tree and reputation like a shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing.” -Abraham Lincoln
The development of positive, stable character traits should flow directly from spiritual growth. Attempts to train a child to be “good” will be relatively meaningless and have only limited success if that child has no personal relationship with God and no real understanding of His love and justice. A kid can make all the right spiritual noises and toe the line when Mom and Dad are watching, but what happens when no one is looking or when he goes off to college by himself? Spiritual maturity and virtuous character traits can’t be instilled into children through a series of lectures. Instead, these things have to arise naturally and holistically out of the quality of life and the health of the relationships they experience at home. (Source: Focus on the Family).1
Kids Need Character
(Matthew 12:33; Luke 6:45)
Some people challenge established Christian virtues. They ask, “Why value a righteous lifestyle?” Many children grow up without the benefit of role models who exhibit positive character traits. Qualities such as honesty, diligence, and respect are in short supply. Homes and schools do not necessarily reinforce these basic values.
“Character” describes who we really are, the person we choose to be. Jesus modeled character traits all Christians can develop. We build character through thousands of choices, one decision at a time. Outside, everyone can see our attitudes and actions (our reputation). Inside, only God knows about our hidden thoughts and dreams.
Practical Idea: Draw a line down the middle of a sheet of paper. In one column, list “good” character traits. In the other column, identify opposites of each good trait. Throughout the next week, draw a “happy face” on the paper beside a character trait that you are glad to see in your child. When he or she “misses the mark,” sit down together and talk about it.
We agree with William J. Bennett who said, “If we want our children to possess the traits of character we most admire, we need to teach them what those traits are and why they deserve both admiration and allegiance. Children must learn to identify the forms and content of those traits.”
Children’s Discipleship System™
DiscipleLand’s complete Children’s Ministry Curriculum is a proven blueprint to instill godly character. This comprehensive, precept-on-precept system ensures that children reach their peak potential as Jesus’ disciples. Kids need to build a firm foundation in God’s Word. They need help to grow into rock-solid disciples of Jesus Christ. They need our help so that they:
• Know God intimately: They develop a reservoir of knowledge based on a Biblical worldview.
• Love God passionately: They display Christ-like character in every area of life.
• Serve God selflessly: They demonstrate faithful conduct that honors God and helps people.
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New Nursery Curriculum Bundle: See What God Made
Transform your nursery into a life-changing ministry! DiscipleLand’s Nursery Curriculum for ages birth to 24 months, See What God Made, includes everything you and your volunteers need to provide spiritual nourishment to infants and toddlers. Every lesson is simple, self-contained, and easy to teach—nursery workers will be ready to go in minutes! Learn More…
Free Easter Resource: The Fragrance of Easter
Mary of Bethany anointed Jesus. She is one of only a few who ministered to Jesus directly. In a moving gesture that demonstrated her deep devotion and gratitude, Mary opened her alabaster jar and … Click Here For An Immediate Download