Continue with:The Influence Exerted By Example

The examples that affect our children are not all within the home. There are the children with whom they attend school, teachers whose work is to mold the young minds, people who feel strongly that everyone should conform to deeply entrenched tribal or community customs, sports stars whose achievements are widely praised and public officials whose conduct is featured in the news. Millions of children have also been exposed to the brutality of war. Should it surprise us if these influences show up in the speech or attitude of our children? How do we react when they do? Does a sharp rebuke or a stern lecture solve the problem? Instead of giving a quick response to our children, would it not be better to ask ourselves, 'Is there something in Jehovah's way of dealing with us that might help in discerning how to handle this situation?' - Compare Romans 2:4.

Of course, imperfect parents are not always going to deal with situations in the best way. they will make mistakes. When children realize that, will it erode their respect for their parents? It may, especially if the parents try to gloss over their errors by harshly asserting their authority. But the outcome may be very different if the parents are humble and freely admit their mistakes. In this, they can set a valuable example for their children, who need to learn to do the same. - James 4:6.

Next time: What our Example Can Teach