“Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.” – Colossians 3:21
Understanding Respect
Respecting our children is foundational to building a healthy and loving relationship within our families. Respect is not simply about listening when they speak, but also about valuing their feelings and opinions. We learn from the Bible that respect is reciprocal, and as we show it to our children, we also teach them to respect others. This mutual respect helps build confidence and trust. Let us remind ourselves of this important principle as we engage with our children every day.
Proverbs 22:6
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” – Proverbs 22:6
Ephesians 6:4
“Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” – Ephesians 6:4
1 Timothy 5:1
“Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but exhort him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers.” – 1 Timothy 5:1
Matthew 19:14
“Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.'” – Matthew 19:14
Psalm 127:3
“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.” – Psalm 127:3
Listening to Our Children
Listening is one of the greatest gifts we can provide to our children. When we take the time to listen to what they have to say, we convey to them that their thoughts and feelings matter. This act of listening nurtures their emotional wellbeing and strengthens our bond with them. The Bible teaches us that every individual should be quick to listen, and this applies to how we engage with our children. By listening, we create an environment where they can express themselves freely and without fear of judgment.
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19
Proverbs 1:8
“Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.” – Proverbs 1:8
Proverbs 18:13
“To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.” – Proverbs 18:13
1 Peter 3:7
“Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.” – 1 Peter 3:7
Proverbs 15:31
“Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise.” – Proverbs 15:31
Encouraging Our Children
Every child deserves encouragement and praise. Acknowledging their achievements, big or small, helps them develop a sense of worthiness and self-esteem. The Bible tells us to build each other up rather than tear each other down. As parents, we must cultivate a loving atmosphere filled with words of affirmation and support. This is crucial for our children’s growth and helps them face life’s challenges with confidence. Affirming our children encourages them to see themselves as God sees them.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
Hebrews 10:24
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24
Psalms 139:14
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” – Psalm 139:14
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
Setting Boundaries with Love
As we focus on respecting our children, we must also remember that boundaries are a form of love. Clear and reasonable guidelines help our children feel secure and teach them right from wrong. The Bible guides us to discipline with love and not in anger. When we set boundaries, we encourage our children to grow into responsible individuals. They learn the importance of choices and consequences while being supported in a loving environment.
Proverbs 22:15
“Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far away.” – Proverbs 22:15
Hebrews 12:11
“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” – Hebrews 12:11
Proverbs 29:15
“The rod of correction imparts wisdom, but a child left undisciplined disgraces its mother.” – Proverbs 29:15
Revelation 3:19
“Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.” – Revelation 3:19
Ephesians 6:1
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.” – Ephesians 6:1
Guiding Through Example
We often underestimate the power of example in teaching respect to our children. Our actions speak louder than words, and our children learn from us, whether consciously or unconsciously. The Bible encourages us to live out our faith openly and authentically. By practicing kindness, patience, and respect, we can provide a model for our children to follow. It is our duty to reflect the virtues of Christ in our everyday actions, assisting our children in understanding what a respectful relationship looks like.
Titus 2:7
“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness.” – Titus 2:7
1 Corinthians 11:1
“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 11:1
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
Philippians 3:17
“Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.” – Philippians 3:17
Colossians 3:23
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” – Colossians 3:23
Praying for Our Children
Prayer is one of the most powerful ways we can show respect for our children. Bringing their needs, desires, and challenges before God helps us connect with them in a deeper way. The Bible exhorts us to pray fervently for our loved ones. By praying for our children, we not only express our reverence for their lives, but we also promote their spiritual wellbeing. Prayer is a way for us to intervene on their behalf and commit them into God’s loving hands.
Philippians 1:3-4
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy.” – Philippians 1:3-4
James 5:16
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” – James 5:16
1 Thessalonians 3:10
“Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith.” – 1 Thessalonians 3:10
Colossians 4:2
“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” – Colossians 4:2
1 John 5:14
“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” – 1 John 5:14
Final Thoughts
Respecting our children is a beautiful journey that nurtures a loving and supportive relationship. Each biblical principle about respect challenges us to listen, guide, and encourage them. By modeling respect in our actions, we create a space for open communication and growth. As we engage in setting boundaries with love and praying fervently for them, we empower our children to recognize their value and importance in our families and the world. Together, let us build a culture of respect that strengthens our family bonds and honors God’s teachings.
There are many more topics to explore. If you’re interested, you can read about forgiving your child or check out fostering.