How we treat our children shows them how to treat others.
How we treat our spouse shows our children what love looks like.
How we speak of others shows our children how to interact in this world.
If we criticize,
they will criticize.
If we express disdain,
they will express disdain.
If we hate,
they will hate.
And it isn’t just about what we say and do in front of our kids;
it is about what we are cultivating in our own hearts.
Because what we cultivate in our hearts will be how we speak and act in the world.
As Jesus tells us in Matthew 15:18,
“…what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart…”
And Luke 6:44 reminds us that we are known by our fruits:
“for each tree is known by its own fruit. For figs are not gathered from thorns, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush.”
So, how do we cultivate a heart that will produce good fruit?
Saint Paul answers that for us in his letter to the Philippians (4:8):
“Finally, brethren,
whatever is true,
whatever is honorable,
whatever is just,
whatever is pure,
whatever is lovely,
whatever is gracious,
if there is any excellence,
if there is anything worthy of praise,
think about these things.”
We aren’t being asked to just give these things a passing thought, we are called to think about/think on/meditate on/dwell on these things.
We are called to contemplate these things because in doing so,
our hearts and minds stay focused on Jesus;
and we have peace.
Because Jesus is these things.
He is Truth.
He is Honor.
He is Justice.
He is Pure of Heart.
He is Love.
He is Gracious.
He is Excellent.
He is Praiseworthy.
When we focus on these things,
our thoughts,
words,
and actions
change.
We begin to live lives of peace.
And when we have peace,
Our kids have peace.
May Christ's Peace be with you.
💕🙏💕
