Information Related to "Our Children at Risk"
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Our Children at Risk By Kathy Cochrane My heart aches for the precious children I met at the amusement park.
ast summer, I had the opportunity to work at an amusement park catering to children through second grade. I was able to observe how families interacted with one another. Some had parents who were definitely in tune to their children; they were kind, loving, positive and obviously enjoyed being together as a family (Proverbs 22:6). Others were extremely negative, impatient, unkind and critical, oftentimes on cell phones conducting business or conversing with friends (Ephesians 6:4; Proverbs 29:15). All these little ones were touched by the treatment of their parents, in both positive and negative ways. Christ gave us an example of His love and care for little ones. His deep concern for them is obvious in His interaction with them and healing (Mark 9:17,25; Luke 9:38-42; John 4:49-51). Jesus, although a single man, valued children. Time is a commodity so hard to come by, yet Jesus chose to spend time with them. What a wonderful example! He rebuked His disciples when they attempted to shoo them away (Matthew 19:14). He welcomed children (Luke 9:48) and told us to become childlike too (Matthew 18:2-5). Challenges of raising children in "enemy territory" Any parent will attest that child rearing is the most difficult job they have ever undertaken. Herbert Armstrong, who was pastor general of the Church of God for many years, often quoted Ephesians 2:2 to remind members that Satan is the god of this world, the prince of the power of the air.
Satan never gets tired, as we do after a hard day at work. He is only too happy to fill the void our fatigue creates in the lives of our children with negativity, self-doubt, resentment and bitterness (Galatians 5:19-21). Satan tries to sway us all with the fleshly desires leading to death.
So many of our children and teens, and so many adults, too, feel hopeless and alone and that no one cares. Satan wants us to think we're not tall enough, not thin enough or too thin. We are listening to his lies saying we are not pretty or handsome enough; we don't have enough money or aren't smart enough. He wants us to think, "I am just not enough!" These negative messages are reinforced in commercials and music videos that promise happiness through sex, fashion and immoral lifestyles, but only bring pain. Each of us is made in God's image (Genesis 1:26) and He loves each and every one just as we physically are! God in His infinite wisdom chose you to hear His message and be offered a chance to be His son or daughter (Ephesians 1:5). He sees in you something He wants to use, and He wants you with Him for eternity (John 3:16; Romans 8:15). As His children, we are a special gift, a treasure and precious in His sight. What can we do? Are we diligently guarding our minds? Are we very selective about what we watch, read and who we associate with? Are we providing these same safe boundaries for our children (without stifling them as they grow toward independence)? Do we know where they are, whom they call friends and how they spend their time?
Can our children talk to us? Are we creating a loving, safe zone at home where anything can be discussed with respect for each person's thoughts and feelings? Beginning this practice with your children at a young age will insure that they will continue to come to you when they are teens. Are we communicating how God helps us in time of need? Do we give our children practical examples they can relate to? Do we articulate how we are dependent on God for help with our problems? Do they see you praying? Do you pray as a family? Does your family have a miracle book everyone can write in? Do your children know how to recognize miracles in their lives? Do you discuss the miracles you are blessed with? Is fun, age-appropriate Bible study part of your family life? We need to arm our children with skills to resist Satan's onslaught. It can be helpful to them if we find teachable moments to talk about a certain situation that may arise and ask how they would handle it (Proverbs 11:14). Equip them with words that will assist them in the event they find themselves in dangerous situations or times when their peers or friends try to get them to go along with something inappropriate. Discuss what they might say.
I believe Dr. James Dobson's book Preparing for Adolescence would be a helpful icebreaker covering many topics. It addresses pertinent issues such as not fitting in, drugs, alcohol, premarital sex, etc., in a straightforward way. While intended for preteens, I feel it should be read by parents and discussed together. It is wiser to discuss these issues before worldly influences try to persuade our young people to do things the wrong way. As we live and share this way of life with our children, our example will be more powerful than our words. Ask God for His guidance. He has given us the book of Proverbs filled with practical advice. Look for interesting ways to share these gems with your children. God's way is the only way to ensure happiness in this lifetime. His messages to us in the Bible bring peace and comfort. When we are immersed in doing things His way, we have comfort when we are in the midst of a trial. We know all things will work for good. We can't possibly do this alone; however, we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. Cherish the children At the amusement park, one little girl told me she lived in Portsmouth and Amesbury because her parents were divorced. I took that opportunity to assure her that the wonderful thing about the hearts of parents is that they always love their children. Sadly, upon further reflection, for some, I realize this is not true. My heart aches for these precious children. Let us all renew our efforts to love and cherish our children. Recommended reading The booklet is full of helpful information for building happy, stable families in this not-so-family-friendly world. Download or request a free copy today. Copyright 2008 by United Church of God, an International Association All rights reserved. |
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Origin of article "Our Children at Risk"
Keywords: children parenting children Satan's influence suicide
Parenting children - failure: