What are the 3 most important things a parent can teach a child? According to a New York Post survey published December 16, 2018, they are, “Be respectful,” “be thankful for what you have” and “honesty is the best policy.” That’s not a bad list. Seems that if we got these three right, we’d have fewer problems at both work and home. Those important things did not magically appear on the world parenting landscape. They’ve been around for a long, long time.
Respect is something that characterizes a life of value. 1 Peter 2:18 “… be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and gentle but also to the unjust.”
Thankfulness is the chief characteristic of the Christian life. 1 Thessalonians 3:18 says, “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” What does it mean? It comes from the Greek word “Charis”, and is translated as grace. It’s realizing that who I am, what I have, what I’ve accomplished, and what I own and possess is from God, and is by God’s grace.
Finally, the Apostle John wrote clearly concerning honesty. 1 John 3:18 Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. Now that you know three things to teach your kids, how are living them out?