No one is ever going to be a “Perfect Parent.” However, there are some ways to be a successful parent—a parent whose child can make it in this world. Several years ago, Dr. Grassi received the following from a dear friend and national Christian counselor, Dr. Karen Johnson. Here’s what she sent:
T— Time with you is more important to your child than money and gifts.
I— Interest must be shown in what your child is interested in.
P— Patience in letting them be kids, not little “grown-ups.”
S— Say “I’m sorry” when you are wrong and expect them to do the same.
F— Forgiveness, fun, and flexible must be ever most at the top of your mind.
O— Offer encouragement in your words, attitudes, and actions.
R— Responsibility is what a parent must teach and a child must have.
S— Strokes (positive, verbal) are something every child needs, along with hugs.
U— Understand and accept who your child is despite what he/she does and/
or how he/she looks.
C— Caring and careful with your comments will be an encouragement to your child.
C— Commitment to what is best for your child, not what makes you look good.
E— Establish boundaries and stick with them.
S— Surprise your child with a special treat just because he is special and loved.
S— Stay in love and in a healthy relationship with your mate. That’s the best security for a child.
F— Faith is a crucial aspect of a child’s life. Make sure yours is strong.
U— Utilize your experiences & listening skills when your child talks to you.
L— Love them.
P— Pray for them, protect them, and provide for them.
A— Ask good questions.
R— Rules, when broken, have consequences; rules, when kept, have rewards.
E— Enforce the boundaries and the rules—both parents must do this consistently.
N— Never try to be your child’s best friend—be his/her parent.
T— Take the initiative to know what is happening with your child & who he/she is hanging out with.
I— Imitating you is what kids do—make sure you’re providing a good example.
N— Nothing makes for a successful child like a positive, godly parent.
G— God wants to be known by your child—be sure you introduce him/her to Him.
Our children are a gift from God entrusted to our care. Please take the above as sound advice and not a cumbersome list of rules to follow.
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 6:4;
Personal Application: Select three of the above tips that especially speak to you and begin applying them with your children today. Also, pray daily for your kids and trust God with their lives.
Wendell Morton and Jim Grassi, D. Min.
We cherish any verse in Scripture that reminds us to keep focused and intentional about evangelism and discipleship. “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5