I don’t know why, but the song –> R E S P E C T <– by Aretha Franklin popped into my mind when I started typing this…now I can’t get it out of my mind — BUT I know that’s totally off the subject, so I will get on with it…
Respect, this is one area that I know my nuggets struggle with. As I sit here racking my brain how to communicate with them what this really means, the thought passes through my head – You can’t get it if you don’t give it.
Here we are again…
…it starts with me!!
Am I teaching it? Am I expecting it? Am I modeling it?
This virtue has me looking in the mirror desiring change for my children which means there needs to be a change in me. The word means to hold in esteem or honor. To show regard or consideration for. To refrain from intruding upon or interfering with.
How will they learn respect or improve in this area? Through
Observation.
- They learn how to honor parents by observing how parents honor one another, and by seeing how parents treat their grandparents
- They learn how to honor authority and government by observing how parents respect the law
- They learn how to honor employers by observing how parents honor theirs
- They learn to honor God by observing parents do the same.
Instruction.
- We have a duty to God and to our children to instruct them in the reasons for being respectful. These principles equip them for success in life and prepare them to assume their place in the kingdom. We harm our children by not instructing and re-enforcing these truths.
Correction.
- It is unfortunate, but often necessary to apply correction. A failure to do this when it is called for encourages further disrespect. God has allowed for government to punish evildoers, the church to correct the unrepentant, and parents to discipline their children.
Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor. 1 Peter 2:17
I pray, “Father show me and teach me how to model respect for my children, open my eyes to the areas in my life where I can be more respectful. May my children show proper respect to everyone as your word commands as I seek You in this area of my life. Amen”
—————————————————-
For a FREE printable version of 31 Biblical Virtues graphic go here
On Pinterest? Follow the board created here — and “pin” this page! =)
If you are joining us on this journey and you haven’t already joined the Keeping it Personal Daily KIP e-mail list, go HERE and sign up — my daily virtue reflection will be emailed to you.
To start at the beginning and see the initial invitation/announcement about this, go HERE
About Teri