Counsel #9 — Love

Picture: Counsel #9 — LoveCR 120.1

The commandment to love one's neighbor as oneself extends to the parent-child relationship. Love is the cornerstone of effective parenting, providing a nurturing and secure environment for children to grow and develop as they approach adolescence. When parents demonstrate genuine love and care for their children, they create a foundation of trust and respect that can last a lifetime.CR 120.2

Love is not merely an emotion but a deliberate action. Seek to understand your children's needs, desires, and challenges. Be patient, compassionate, and forgiving, even when your children make mistakes.CR 120.3

As parents, when you are united and supportive, it sends a powerful message to your children that they are loved and valued. Fathers can demonstrate their love for their children by loving their wives. A strong and loving marriage creates a stable and secure home environment, making it more likely that children will develop a deep relationship with God and live a life of love and service to others.^{[113]https://children.adventistchurch.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2017/03/The-Faith-Shaper-Guide-to-Authentic-Relationships.pdf} CR 120.4

“Love suffers long and is kind… Love never fails… and now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:4, 8, 13CR 120.5

“It will pay to manifest affection in your association with your children. Do not repel them by lack of sympathy in their childish sports, joys, and griefs. Never let a frown gather upon your brow or a harsh word escape your lips.” Ellen White in The Adventist Home, p. 309CR 120.6

Reflect: Do you ask God daily for help in being more patient and understanding with your children?CR 120.7