Note to Parents, PLEASE READ!

While this curriculum was initially intended as a tool in guiding our children, it goes without saying that these character studies and the Biblical Principles included are equally applicable to all Christians including parents.  Children tend to see their parents as having it all together.  Children need to know that their parents have weaknesses, struggles, failures, and tempted by the same sins they are. Don't try to conceal them from the occasions when you make a mistake, lose your temper, or say or do something for which you have to apologize or make amends. They don't need perfect parents, they need real parents.  They need to see you dealing with life at your best and at your worst. They need to see you turning to the Savior for forgiveness.  They also need to see you responding to your failure with humility, integrity, and love.

Pride vs. Humility

Quoting C.J. Mahaney in his book titled, Humility: True Greatness, “The real issue here is not if pride exists in your heart; it’s where pride exists and how pride is being expressed in your life.”

Check if it is true in your life today – otherwise, would others say you are

characterized by the statements below. 

  □ I am quick to accept correction from my parents or siblings.  Pr. 12:15

  □ I look for opportunities to build others up.  Phil. 2:3

  □ I willingly and purposefully admit my weaknesses and my sins, and confess them to others. James 5:16 , Pr. 28:13

  □ In conversations, I do more listening than talking. Romans 12:10

  □ I am quick to give God the glory when others point out my talents or giftings. 1 Cor. 3:2, Rom. 7:18

  □ I thank my parents when they bring observation or correction in my life. 1 Peter 5:5

  □ I seek out others on a regular basis to bring observation or speak into my life.  Pr. 11:14, Pr. 29:18

  □ I am not distracted in thought but listen intently when my parents are talking to me.  Phil. 2:3

 □  I am sincerely happy for others when they receive something undeserved.  Gal. 5:26

  □  When others are talking, I patiently wait my turn.  Phil 2:3, James 1:19

  □ I do not like to be the center of attention. Luke 17:10

  □ I rarely find myself in disagreements with others.  Pr. 13:10

  □  When listening to a sermon, I recognize quickly how it relates to me and my life.  Ps. 101:5

  □ I am quick to go to someone when I have offended them.

  □ I have a healthy distrust of myself.  Pr. 16:25, Jer. 17:9

  □ I am quick to forgive others.  Pr. 20:9, 2 Cor. 3:5, Col. 3:13, Luke 6:36

  □  When there is conflict in my life, I pray first that God would reveal my areas of sin rather than God changing the other person. 1 Cor. 4:7

  □ I assume the best in others rather than judging their motives. 1 Peter 4:8, 1 Cor. 16:14, Matt. 7:1-5, Phil. 2:4

  □ I am not quick to give an explanation or excuse for my behavior.  Pr. 28:13

  □  When a story or situation is being told incorrectly, I am content in keeping silent and do not need to correct them.  Rom. 12:10