In a world where teenagers are constantly exposed to various influences, Barner's studies reveal a striking fact: 78% of young people say their parents have a significant influence on their spiritual life. However, only 39% report having a close emotional connection with their fathers. How can we improve this situation? Christian counseling experts share seven …
In a world where teenagers are constantly exposed to various influences, Barner’s studies reveal a striking fact: 78% of young people say their parents have a significant influence on their spiritual life. However, only 39% report having a close emotional connection with their fathers. How can we improve this situation? Christian counseling experts share seven fundamental principles for effective parenting.
1. The Spiritual Foundation: Love for God
The first and most important pillar in raising children is developing a personal relationship with God. As experts point out, this spiritual connection not only anchors us as parents but provides the energy and wisdom necessary to guide our children. This spiritual foundation supports the values and ethical principles we want to transmit.
2. The Power of Example: Conjugal Love
The second fundamental pillar is demonstrating love and respect for your spouse. The family functions as a microcosm of society, and children who witness a loving relationship between their parents are more likely to develop healthy relationships in their adult life. Experts emphasize the importance of avoiding criticism of your spouse in front of children, as this can negatively affect their emotional development.
3. The Key of Time: Availability
In an era where families work a thousand more hours per year than 25 years ago, availability has become a crucial challenge. Specialists emphasize that for a child, love is spelled “T-I-M-E.” This means creating meaningful moments, from nighttime talks to shared activities that children enjoy.
4. The Foundation of Growth: Mutual Respect
Respect for children, even from an early age, is fundamental to their development. Experts note that children who don’t receive respect may seek to obtain it in inappropriate ways in the future. This respect is demonstrated in daily courtesies, such as saying “please” and “thank you.”
5. The Art of Expression: Emotional Freedom
Allowing children to express their emotions and thoughts is crucial for their healthy development. Specialists warn that suppressing emotions can lead to behavioral problems and addictions in the future. The key is teaching how to handle emotions constructively.
6. The Mirror of Behavior: Conscious Modeling
Children learn more through observation than instruction. Experts emphasize the importance of modeling the behaviors we want to see in our children, remembering that “eyes are always upon us.”
7. The Virtue of Authenticity: Honesty and Openness
The final pillar is honesty and openness with children. This includes the ability to admit mistakes and ask for forgiveness when necessary. Specialists note that this authenticity helps children develop a realistic view of life and better communication skills.
Conclusion
Effective parenting doesn’t require perfection, but rather commitment and awareness. As experts point out, it’s never too late to improve the relationship with our children. Success in parenting isn’t measured by the absence of mistakes, but by our willingness to learn and grow alongside our children.
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Minner Labrador Jr.
Dr. Labrador earned his degrees from Southern Adventist University in Collegedale, Tennessee, Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan, and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Boston, Massachusetts. He is a Pastor, Author, Revivalist and Administrator.
Pastor Labrador has almost 30 years of experience in pastoral ministry and has served as the Director of Men’s Ministries across Florida, the Carolinas, and throughout North America. His pastoral experience includes serving as a senior pastor in both multi-church districts and single-church districts, as well as in a multi-pastoral church setting.
Additionally, he has contributed to Men’s Ministries as a radio talk show host in Tampa Bay, Florida, and has hosted several Men’s Ministries television series for Hope Channel. He is the recipient of the prestigious lifetime achievement award in North America for his pioneering work and excellence in Men’s Ministries.
