Fulfilling Your Role as a Parent -

 

1. Clearly state your values.

As children grow, they are buried in an avalanche of misinformation about morals-some of it from their peers and much of it from the media.  Such negative influences become especially evident when  children enter the teen years.  However, research shows that when it comes to major decisions in life, many adolescents place higer value on their parents viewpoints than on those of their peers. 

 What you can do. Parents in ancient Israel were encouraged to talk with their childrejn frequently n order to inculcate upright values in them.  (Deuteronomy 6:6, 7) Do the same with your child.  For example, if you live by the Bible's moral standards, tell your children why you feel that adhering to thsoe standards leads to the best way of life. 

2. Help your child understand consequences.

The Bible states: "Whatever a man is sowing, this he shall also reap." (Galatians 6:6,7) The principle of cause and effect can be observed in virtually every aspect of lfe.  Think back to your own childhood.  No doubt the most memorable lessons you learned were those in which ou had to face the consequences of your actions. 

What can you do. Using the real-life examples, explain to your child how those who adopted a wrong course suffered or how those who did the right thing benefited.  (Luke 17:31, 32; Hebrews 13:7)  Also, do not shield your child from the consequences of his or her own mistakes. Suppose, for example, that your son carelessl breaks a toy belonging to another boy. You could require that your son give one of his toys to him.  Your child will not  quickly forget this lesson on repsecting the belongings of others. 

Next time:Fulfilling Your Role as a Parent - 3 -Build Positive Traits

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