Via TJC
But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.” ~Matthew 19:14
Paraphrasing the great philosopher Homer Simpson here, “children are ‘the cause of, and solution to, all of life’s problems’”. I don’t think I’m alone in that sentiment. They’re easy to love, and also easy to… not love. The “recipe” for a good relationship between a parent and a child is not written in stone, but certain ingredients cannot be left out.
Love. Of course. So… how is that different in a Kingdom family? What is the biblical version of love? In observing the God that we’ve come to know in scripture, it comes down to this: Always act in the long-term best interests of the object of your affection. That’s it. Think about it. Everything God does is moving his children towards an end result. A finished product: A vessel that will glorify God and enjoy Him forever. That said, the process is just as often ugly as it is beautiful. Deal with it. Love your children as your Father loves you and you’ll never regret it.
Teach. My dad had the uncanny wisdom to know when to teach by example. Let’s just suffice to say that almost no scenario was out of bounds. Even a night in (I was a rowdy youngster) jail at one point. That night served a great purpose, and taught me more than a thousand hugs and “attaboys” could have taught me. As a father, lay the groundwork so that things like a night in the pokey won’t be necessary. Teach and live the word.
Discipline. Actually, proper discipline is another word for love. Whether it be corporal, educational, or just giving them enough rope to hang themselves and then allowing them to get out of it on their own. Remember: long term best interests.
DAILY BATTLE ORDER:
Relationships with our children are amazing, rewarding, beautiful, painful, costly, and difficult… and that’s just the first year. Then it gets really fun! Don’t even attempt it without Jesus at the helm of the ship. Be intentional. Make time today (and on a regular schedule) to spend undistracted time with your children.
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