Core Principles for Christian Parenting

Ephesians 4:17-32

Truth is not dependent on belief.

Our society is all about discussing “our rights” but we’re increasingly hesitant to declare, “what is right.”

Core Principles for Christian Parenting

I. Teach Your Child the Value of the Truth  v.25

We have become desensitized to lying.

Just because something is true doesn’t mean you have to tell it.  That is often called gossip.

Truth is conforming one’s words to reality; being real. Lying is PRETENDING.

Why do people lie?

·       Fear of punishment

·       Fear of conflict or rejection

·       Fear of loss

·       Fear of losing opportunity

·       Fear of hurting another

How do people lie?

·       Controlling a Response

·       Lying by Omission

·       Exaggerations

·       Self-Protection

·       Gossip or Flattery

The fundamental reason why people lie is because it works.  Lying is about immediate reward.

Having to lie about your life is the first sign of the development of shame.  Guilt says "I did bad" - Shame says "I am bad."

When a child is fearful of admitting mistakes to a parent, the parent needs to review their reactions.

Honesty creates healthy self-worth and allows healing responses to our mistakes from people who love us.

If real Christianity would be expressed with its fears, failures and faults along with its faith, more people could believe it.