Unmasking the Heart of Sin in Our Children
As parents, we often struggle to recognize the subtle yet profound differences between our children’s behaviors and heart postures. While one child may outwardly rebel against authority, another may appear to be compliant, yet secretly harbor a heart of pride and self-righteousness. It’s essential to understand that both scenarios require our attention and guidance.
The Deception of Good Behavior
We may be tempted to think that our well-behaved child is doing just fine, but beneath the surface, they may be motivated by a desire to please us or avoid trouble rather than a genuine heart of submission to God. This can lead to a false sense of security, causing us to overlook the underlying heart issues that need to be addressed.
The Parable of the Prodigal Son: A Reflection of Our Own Hearts
The story of the prodigal son is a powerful reminder that we all struggle with sin, regardless of our outward behavior. The older son, who appeared to be doing everything right, was actually harboring a heart of pride and anger. This parable teaches us that sin is not just about behavior, but also about our attitudes and motivations.
Helping Our Children Understand Sin
We need to help our children understand that sin is not just about making mistakes, but about being in a relationship with God and pursuing his holiness. We can train our children to obey, but that doesn’t necessarily prepare their hearts to submit to their heavenly Father. By asking them questions and exploring the Bible together, we can help them develop a deeper understanding of sin and their need for a Savior.
Freedom in Recognizing Our Fallenness
When our children understand that they can’t earn God’s forgiveness, they are freed from the crushing burden of trying to live up to an impossible standard. This realization can lead to a deeper sense of humility and a greater desire to submit to God’s will. By showing compassion and encouraging each other, we can create an environment where our children feel safe to acknowledge their struggles and run to the Lord for forgiveness.
Raising Children Who Truly Honor God
Ultimately, our goal as parents is to raise children who understand that their good deeds are not about earning God’s approval, but about honoring him from a heart of love and gratitude. By guiding them towards a deeper understanding of sin and their need for a Savior, we can help them find greater joy and freedom in their relationship with God.
Leave a Reply