Unconditional Love

“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.

Wives, be subject to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be embittered against them. Children, be obedient to your parents in all things, for this is well-pleasing to the Lord. Fathers, do not exasperate your children, so that they will not lose heart.” Colossians 3:12-21

How much of your child-rearing stems from principles found within God’s Word vs. the prevalent thought of the day? If God has entrusted a child’s life to your hands (what a serious responsibility), how are you going about the task of raising that child, as Scripture says, “in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Eph. 6:4)?

Here is the “master key” which will open the doors between you and your child. That key is unconditional love. The healthiest environment in which children can grow and develop is one in which they experience not only love but unconditional love.

One good way to find out whether or not your children feel this kind of love and acceptance is simply to ask them, “What do you think it would take for you to make Mom and Dad as proud of you as we could possibly be?” The answer, if they’re honest, will clue you in on what kind of value system they have picked up at home. You see, it isn’t enough simply to tell your children that you accept them unconditionally. They must learn it in day-to-day experience.

The development of strong character must be emphasized and rewarded in the home.