Day 3: The Power of Your Words

“Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats a matter separates close friends.” (Proverbs 17:9, NIV)
“’Sorry’ doesn’t cut it this time, kid.”

Oh, my heart ached for the child who messed up.

Yes, she lied.

No, she did not need an adult to tell her that her repentance and apology weren’t enough.

You see, it is kindness that leads to repentance. It is love and forgiveness that leads to freedom.

The parent, who gently and wisely guides her child through their mess-ups, also raises well-grounded and spiritually mature children.

The words we shower over our children often form their perception of how God views them.

If we speak disgust toward them, they will feel unworthy.

When we spew anger at them, they will view authority, and ultimately God, as an angry force.

When we show grace, love, and understanding, they will come to see God as a safe place, too.

When we speak wisdom and encouragement, they will recognize when God speaks to them in the same manner.

Today’s verse mentions, “covering an offense”. To cover your child’s offense doesn’t mean letting them do as they please.

Covering an offense means to recognize their conduct and talk them through it wisely.

Then move on together.

When we “repeat the matter,” we start building a separation between their hearts and ours. This could eventually hinder their ability to believe God’s love for them and the way He forgives them.

God never says, “Sorry doesn’t cut it.”

The way we handle our children’s mistakes, will determine their perception of God’s ability to love them.

What kind of Jesus are you demonstrating to your children? 

-Kaylene