Devotional
Scripture:
Fathers, don't aggravate your children. If you do, they will become discouraged and quit trying. (Colossians 3:21, NLT)
My son is a member of a summer basketball team. Recently, as I sat quietly on the bleachers watching the boys play, I noticed one Dad commenting on his son's performance. I heard comments like, "you can do better than that," and "get in there and play harder" and "That kid is playing much better than you."
Each time the Father commented, his son reacted. Whether it was an angry glance at his Dad or a grimace on his face, it was obvious he was not happy with his Father's comments every time he made an attempt to play the game of basketball. Nevertheless, the comments continued until the game was finally over.
If you're a Father, nothing is wrong with wanting your children to do well in sports or other activities. But the apostle Paul admonishes Fathers to be careful in what they say to their children as they attempt to participate in various activities. If you deride your child's abilities, compare them to others, and embarrass their efforts in front of others, your child may become discouraged and quit trying. Instead, Fathers are told to provide words of instruction that are "approved by the Lord" (Ephesians 6:3). Words like "you can do it," "good job," "keep trying," or "I'm proud of you" will go a long way in building your child up and helping them become all that you desire them to become.
Sharing the word,
Jeaninne
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