Introduction:
Welcome back to our parenting course. In today’s session, we will explore the profound impact of our words on our children and the importance of speaking life and affirmation into their lives. Join us, Mike and Rachelle, as we share personal experiences and insights on this crucial aspect of parenting.
The Weight of Our Words:
We often hear the adage, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never harm me.” While this saying is meant to provide comfort, the truth is that words hold great power. Once spoken, they cannot be taken back. Our words can either be like precious stones, speaking life and encouragement, or like jagged rocks, causing harm and leaving scars.
The Story of the Frogs:
An anecdote about frogs illustrates the impact of words. Two frogs found themselves in a deep hole, surrounded by other frogs who discouraged them, urging them to give up. Despite the discouragement, one frog persisted and eventually escaped. It turns out that the frog was deaf and misunderstood the negative words as encouragement. This story reminds us of the power of our actions and the determination that can be fueled by positive influences.
The Creative Power of Words:
Throughout Scripture, we witness the creative power of words. In Genesis, God spoke and brought forth creation, shaping the world with His words. Moses and Ezekiel also experienced the power of speaking in alignment with God’s will. As parents, we have the ability to speak life and prophesy over our children, encouraging and guiding them on their journey.
Using Our Words to Build Identity:
One of the greatest gifts we can give our children is a strong sense of identity. By affirming their belonging to God and to our family, we provide a foundation for their self-worth. Remind your children that they are cherished children of God, emphasizing their value and purpose. Within your family, create a sense of belonging and unity by using your family name, reinforcing their identity and connection.
Providing Security through Love:
Our words have the power to provide security and assurance to our children. By expressing our love and reminding them that they are loved because they are ours, not just for their outward appearance, we reinforce their sense of security. Let them know that your love for them is unwavering and unconditional, regardless of external circumstances or fleeting beauty standards.
Affirming and Celebrating Victories:
Affirmation plays a vital role in nurturing our children’s self-esteem. Just as Jesus received affirmation from His Father, we can celebrate our children’s accomplishments and victories. Attend their sports games, plays, and recitals, and genuinely express your pride and joy in their achievements. Take interest in their creations and efforts, and let them know that you see and appreciate their hard work. By affirming their successes, we build confidence and encourage their pursuit of excellence.
Restoring and Healing Through Forgiveness:
If you feel that you haven’t always used positive language or encouraged your children enough, remember that it’s never too late to make a change. Apologize to your children if you have spoken harshly or reacted inappropriately. Children are forgiving, and they appreciate the sincerity and humility in seeking forgiveness. Even if your children are older, you can still mend relationships and seek healing through prayer and grace.
Harnessing the Power of Words:
As parents, we must recognize the power of our words. Proverbs 16:24 reminds us that pleasant words are like honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. Let us choose our words carefully, speaking life, encouragement, and affirmation into the lives of our children. Just as precious stones are treasured, our words can be cherished by our children for a lifetime.
Conclusion:
As we conclude this session, remember that our words hold immense power. Let us be intentional in speaking life, love, and affirmation into the lives of our children. Build their identity, provide security through unconditional love, celebrate their victories, and restore relationships through forgiveness. By harnessing the power of our words, we can shape our children’s self-esteem, instill confidence, and guide them towards a bright and purposeful future.
Thank you for joining us, and we hope that this discussion has been beneficial to you. May your words always be a source of life and encouragement to your children. Goodnight.