You don’t want to be a passive parent.
You don’t want to be a possessive parent.
You want to be a participative parent.
I love that image – a participative parent.
Engaged, involved, invested. Ready to do whatever it takes to not only enjoy kids while they are kids but help them gain a good foundation and understanding of life and faith.
A few years ago, I read The Ten Commandments of Parenting by Ed Young. This simple list was one of the many great things in this book I thought was helpful. It’s an ongoing aspect of life when you have young children in your home, but raising them with these characteristics is huge. This particular list was all taken from verses in the book of Proverbs.
Teach Children Reverence
Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge,
but fools despise wisdom and discipline. (Pr. 1:7)
Teach Children The Importance of Obedience
My child, listen when your father corrects you.
Don’t neglect your mother’s instruction. (Pr. 1:8)
Teach Kids Purity
So follow the steps of the good,
and stay on the paths of the righteous (Pr. 2:1-20)
Teach Children About Money
Honor the Lord with your wealth
and with the best part of everything you produce. (Pr. 3:9)
Teach A Healthy View of Love
Do not withhold good from those who deserve it
when it’s in your power to help them.
If you can help your neighbor now, don’t say,
“Come back tomorrow, and then I’ll help you.”(Pr. 3:27-28)
Teach Control of the Tongue
Avoid all perverse talk;
stay away from corrupt speech. (Pr 4:24)
Teach Your Children To Work
But you, lazybones, how long will you sleep?
When will you wake up? (Pr. 6:9)
Teach Your Children About Choosing Godly Friends
Walk with the wise and become wise;
associate with fools and get in trouble.(Pr. 13:20)
Create a list with these scriptures and use them as conversation starters with your kids. Keep it in front somehow. Much of this comes naturally, but at times, we need to be reminded. It’s up to you – parents – to be involved and invested.
OTHER POSTS…
Three Critical Times To Engage With Your Kids