Stressed-out Family? Seek Constructive Change - Part 2

Most parents want their children to have character traits that will enable them to endure the stressors of growing up in an ever-changing culture. Strong character traits give children determination to withstand the pressures of life. Stress is derived from various sources and, when coupled with anxiety and tension, can be a detriment to building resilience.

Child development experts expound on the benefits of tender, loving care given to children during the developmental years. Researchers believe that long-term, chronic stress impairs physical and mental health. Stressed-out people may have trouble establishing close, nurturing relationships. Doing well in school or at work is jeopardized where too much stress exists.

Responsive and encouraging caregivers help build the resilience children need to cope with stress later in life. Even in a troubled environment parents can provide reassurance and encouragement to help children feel secure. God does this for you by helping you realize that Christ Jesus is present and trustworthy to guide you through difficult, troubled times.  

Choosing Reality: For Today and Tomorrow - Part 1

The most difficult task of parenting is helping children develop the ability to deal constructively with reality. As a parent, you do your best to protect your child from physical harm. What parent would permit their toddler to play in the street or be near a swimming pool without constant supervision? Concerned  parents teach children how to deal effectively with reality.

Dealing constructively with reality assumes intelligence and aptitude for change. Every child within proper age range and with normal intelligence has the capacity for understanding and accepting facts pertaining of the real world. Reality becomes distorted for children and adults as they are being inundated with false information from those who appear trustworthy.

A truth to embrace is that God constantly holds us accountable for what we model to others, especially children. God gives us initiative and wisdom for making effective changes as we choose to commit our lives to him. God is faithful to forgive and cleanse from all unrighteousness when we confess and turn away from sin. This is God's reality.

Dealing Constructively with Reality - Part 3

A personal concept of reality is based largely on our spiritual beliefs, our political positions, and our beliefs of the right ways to function in society. Our concept of reality can be distorted when reality becomes what we want it to be. Our perception of truth can be based on facts and data that are less than accurate.

In recent months there has been a rash of killings by radicalized people who believed they were doing what was right and good. What happened to distort their concept of reality and truth? A middle school English teacher asked her students to write an essay on any topic of their choice. The majority wrote in graphic detail of the violence they believed comprised their world.

The role of parents has always been to teach and model for children healthy ways to deal effectively with reality. This includes making sure they have the ability to see and understand the truth of God's word and how it applies to their lives. God faithfully gives us insight and wisdom to help us manage reality.