Show Them Grace

Did you know one great way that we parents can exhibit the character of God to our kids? We can show them grace and forgiveness.

When Moses asked to see the glory of God, he heard the following words proclaimed in a loud voice: “The LORD, the LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth” (34:6). That’s a powerful word picture of who God really is!

While I think it’s a good idea for children to have regular chores, such as making their beds every morning and keeping their rooms clean, I know very well that sometimes those chores won’t get done. And while it’s appropriate to discipline a child who ignores his chores, those occasions don’t always require punishment! Those may be perfect times to show grace and forgiveness.

It’s important that our children know we love them and will continue to love them, regardless of how they perform. That doesn’t mean there won’t be consequences if they fail to obey! But it does mean we will always accept them and love them. They need the security that comes from knowing that nothing they do can cause us to not love them anymore. They need to see how we model the grace and forgiveness of God as we relate to them and our spouse. That’s an important key in raising children to maturity and helping them develop their understanding of what true grace and forgiveness are all about.

Taken from FamilyLife Marriage Bible