The very nature of God is love. In 1 John chapter 4 it states that ‘God is Love’. Often nick-named ‘The Love Chapter’, 1 Corinthian 13 is a condensed description of God’s unconditional love. Let’s look at how to apply it to parenting.
Parenting Guide 101 …. ‘The Love Chapter’
Patient…….Be willing to wait for God’s perfect timing. Have self-restraint. Control your impulses.
Kind…….Ask, “What would this person like?” “What do they need?” Speak softly and be caring.
Does not envy…….Be content with what you have. Recognize your blessings. Be happy for other’s good.
Does not boast…….Be humble. Don’t brag. Give credit to others.
Not proud…….Don’t think you are better than other people. Be modest. Don’t be arrogant or overbearing.
Not rude.......Be courteous and kind. Be gracious. Use good manners.
Not self-seeking.......Think of others first. Give someone else first choice. Don’t be greedy and selfish.
Not easily angered.......Think the best of people. Don’t jump to conclusions. Ask questions and listen.
Keeps no record of wrongs.......Forgive the ‘wrongs’. Remember the ‘rights’. What did Jesus do?
Does not delight in evil.......Don’t watch or read evil things. Turn away from gossip. Don’t gloat when others fall.
Rejoices with the truth.......Be happy about good things. Spread good news. Tell the truth to yourself and others.
Always protects.......Protect the helpless and weak. Protect yourself against temptation. Defend the name of Jesus.
Always Trusts.......Trust is believing God’s promises. Pray about everything and trust Him. Believe that all things work for good.
Always hopes.......Never give up. Remember God doesn’t give up on you. Expect good things from God.
Always perseveres.......Be persistent. Keep on praying. If God is for you, who can be against you? Be faithful to God and others.
Never fails.......Love never fails. God’s love never fails. Pray for a loving heart like His.
Teach these attributes to your children and they will succeed at God’s plan for their life. Most important, if we as parents strive to live God’s love, then our children will do …..as they see.
Pastor Pat
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