12 of 15

by Carl Laws

• A
• A
• A

The Bible is interesting, such an ancient book yet, so relevant and cutting edge. It has the answers for ALL of life's greatest needs, including RAISING CHILDREN.
I believe the following 7 tips will help your children to be successful by giving them a Biblical foundation. The tips that I can offer are based upon the Bible and life experiences as a father and teacher.

1. The most important thing in the whole world to a parent is not cars, homes, portfolio, career, etc, but your children. Never turn your children over to anyone who has major character flaws in their life. People whose life is controlled by immorality, greed, anger, selfish ambition, idolatry, vises, etc. People like: babysitters, daycare workers, teachers, coaches, friend's parents, TV and Internet. Know who you are allowing to INFLUENCE your children. If you think about it these people actually spent more time with your children than you do. Make sure they have the same values as you do. 2Corinthians 6:14; Psalm 140:1

2. Your children are your most precious possession, therefore, do not be a hypocrite to them. Be the BEST ROLE MODEL of all to them. Hold up the highest standard of character as possible to them. For example: 1) Do not scold them for fighting with their brother/sister, if you argue with your wife in front of them or the neighbor or show fits of rage while driving and/or yell at the coach. Example 2) Do not try to teach them not to take drugs, drink alcohol, smoke tobacco, if you do. Example 3) Do not send them to their room for cursing, if you do. Example 4) Do not give them some great big lecture after they were caught cheating in school, if you cheat on you income tax, etc. Provers 22:6; Proverbs 31:28

3. The children God has given you are gifts from Him. Raise your children as precious gifts from above. Help your children learn about God and not just on Sundays but every day of the week. Use every chance you can to teach the reality of God. Do it daily. Taking your children to church one hour a week won't get it done. I will guarantee you that Satan's crowd will get more time at your kids than one hour. Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Psalm 78:5

4. Can you put a price on your children? I think not, therefore, spent quality time with them, DAILY. Focused time equals love to a child. Be real to your children. Laugh and have fun with them. Get to know them, their interest, their personality, etc. Share one on one time with them. Be their friend. Turn the TV down, look them in the eye and listen to what they have to say. Answer their questions. If you don't give them the attention that they desire they will seek it elsewhere. Ephesians 6:4

5. Is your child of great value or spoiled rotten? DISCIPLINE them when they need it. Teach them self control. Teach them responsibility. Give them boundaries. If they are in trouble in school, don't take their side versus the teacher but teach them how to get along with authority. Parents who always take their child's side versus the authority teaches them to be disrespectful and spoiled. Teach them how to work through problems. Proverbs 23:13; 2Peter 1:5-7

6. Normal children usually get into some trouble, or have problems. Always believe in your children. If the coach or teacher gives up on them, then you be their biggest cheerleader. No matter what happens, always love your children and never give up on them. Proverbs 29:15

7. Teach your priceless children that they are unique. They are exactly like God wanted them to be. He made no mistakes when He made them. Teach them that they are special. Teach them that God looks on the heart and not externals, therefore, help them develop good character. Psalm 139:13-14; 1Samuel 16:7

Remember, childhood is intense and extremely short, so teach them all you can while you have the time with them, give them every possible opportunity, be their BEST ROLE MODEL and they will have the framework to be successful.

Learn more about this author, Carl Laws.

Add your voice
Know something about Tips for raising successful children? We want to hear your view. Write now!