The Power of Words: Shaping Young Lives
As a parent, have you ever stopped to think about the impact your words have on your child’s life? Sharon Autry, a mother of three, learned a valuable lesson when her three-year-old daughter responded to her scolding with a defiant, “Words, words, words. That’s all I get?” This encounter sparked a prayer in Sharon’s heart, asking God to help her speak words of encouragement rather than criticism.
The Life-Giving Power of Our Tongue
Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that “the tongue has the power of life and death.” Our words have the ability to either build up or tear down our children. As parents, it’s essential to recognize the weight of our words and use them to uplift and inspire our little ones.
Praising Our Children: A Daily Practice
So, how can we make a conscious effort to speak life-giving words to our children? Start by looking for reasons to praise them every day. Express your love and admiration through simple yet powerful phrases like, “I love you, sweetheart,” or “I couldn’t be more proud of you.” Remind them of their identity in Christ, saying, “God loves you, my little one, you are His child.”
Discipline with Love
While discipline is an essential part of parenting, it’s crucial to do so with words prompted by love. The Bible never neglects discipline, nor should we as parents and grandparents. By balancing discipline with encouragement, we can help our children develop a strong sense of self-worth and confidence.
Raising Children with Purpose
As we strive to speak life-giving words to our children, let’s remember that our role as parents is not only to correct but also to inspire. By doing so, we can shape young lives that are filled with purpose, confidence, and a deep understanding of their worth in God’s eyes.
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