The Most Precious Gift You Can Give a Child

“But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today”, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.” (Hebrews 3:13 NIV)

Most parents love their children and ensure they are fed, clothed and educated to the best of their ability. However some err in thinking that they know all that their children need even in regard to the careers they should pursue. Not all children want or are able to pursue what their parents have in mind for them. Parents should seek to understand their children’s capabilities and limitations and encourage them to maximize their potential in accordance to their talents and gifts.

Pursuing areas where one can be competent and effective keeps one motivated and less stressed. Pushing children beyond their abilities and against their inclinations can breed bitterness and low self esteem. It can make them harden their stand against what their parents stand for, including Christianity. They can rebel and seek other ways to attain happiness including potentially harmful ways like drugs and immorality.

Parents should also realize that even good children make horrible mistakes and need to be forgiven and encouraged to move on.

Children require parents who understand, embrace, and accept them just as they are.

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“Encouraged people achieve the best; dominated people achieve second best; neglected people achieve the least.” ~ Anonymous

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