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Parenting in a Changing World -
Part 2: The Principle of Established Standards
How to teach children to stay on course
Set the standard: Knowing
that our children are facing a fluid and ever-changing array of choices in
a world that keeps revising the standards of a civilized society, we must
seek the one constant upon which to build parenting skills Gods Word.
For although man seems to re-shape acceptable behavior at will, God's
precepts are the only truth that are constant and eternal.
And it is
vital that our children learn that man does not have the omnipotent
insight to change God's commands.
In addition,
if we want our children to be decent, righteous adults, guided by an inner
compass of moral integrity, we must be vigilant to monitor the character
of our own souls.
In an article
on this website, we share a tender illustration about how parental example
enables us to transfer values to young children. We summarized the article
with this certainty:
The character of a man is not
inherited.
It is assembled daily, from the little acts of justice in his midst.
Compassion is shown. Kindness is passed on.
And integrity is fostered deep in a mans soul.
Let us set the standard toward which our children can strive.
Let us all lead lives that are evident in truth and character.
For we have been given a holy calling
to create a new world, one little life at a time.
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On a personal note: A few weeks ago we spent some time with our
adult daughters. They are amazing. Beautiful, bright, and caring. How did
they become such radiant gifts to the world? I would like to say that it
was because of excellent parenting. But that would not be accurate.
As a young couple 35 years ago,
we had little knowledge of how to take care of a baby, or how to raise
children in an evolving society. But in spite of our inexperience,
ignorance, and ineptitude, we were certain of one truth that God would
hover over His Word to perform it.
So each day we spoke His words
over them, claiming His protection and promises. Today, we see the
evidence of His faithfulness.
God
Our Father
How Great Thou Art!
Proverbs, Chapter 22: Verse 6 |