As a parent, have you ever been home and not really home? That is, have you ever been surrounded by your children, but so distracted by the things of this world – your job, hobbies, friends – that you’re really on another planet?
Pastor David Jeremiah asked those questions in a two-part Focus on the Family podcast, and then suggested four ways that parents can improve in their God-given roles of loving their children. He calls them the four ways to encourage your children. I enjoyed it and would encourage you to listen, too, here and here. (If you have an iPhone, download the Focus on the Family app. The broadcasts were on Sept. 23-24. There also is an Android app.)
Parents, he said, should give their children:
- Focused attention.
- Individual affirmation.
- Genuine appreciation.
- Physical affection.
Parents of two or more children particularly would find his words helpful. Taking one-on-one time with each child is beneficial, he said, and he urged parents to make it a point to learn the unique qualities of each son or daughter.
His ministry’s website apparently sells an inexpensive booklet expanding on these four points.
Jeremiah is the pastor of Shadow Mountain Community Church (California).
Michael Foust is an editor and writer who blogs about parenting and fatherhood. He loves his family and also really likes popcorn. Interested in re-posting this in your publication or on your blog for free? Send me a message in the comments section below (the message won’t go public).
You also may enjoy:
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5 reasons to tell children about the cross, from birth
5 ways parenting makes us less selfish – and why I’m thankful for the lesson
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