Counsel #13 — Sibling Rivalry

Picture: Counsel #13 — Sibling RivalryCR 124.1

Navigating the conflicts of sibling rivalry can be challenging as you seek to guide your children toward love and forgiveness. One valuable approach is to openly acknowledge and validate your children's feelings. Let them express their frustrations and emotions. Create a safe space where each child can feel heard and understood. By actively listening, you demonstrate empathy and compassion, which can go a long way in defusing tensions and building trust.CR 124.2

Set clear expectations and boundaries. Establish rules and consequences for negative behaviors, such as fighting or name-calling. Praise and reward your children for displaying kindness, cooperation, and respect toward one another.CR 124.3

Teach your children the importance of forgiving those who have wronged them, even when it's difficult. Remind them of the biblical example of Joseph, who was favored by his father Jacob over his brothers. Despite being betrayed and sold into slavery, Joseph eventually forgave his siblings and reconciled with them. What a powerful reminder of the transformative power of forgiveness!^{[117]https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/sibling-rivalry-how-to-to-survive-daily-conflict/}CR 124.4

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:32 NIVCR 124.5

“Let no unkind words fall from the lips of those who compose the home circle.… Let fathers and mothers feel the need of being home missionaries, the need of keeping the home atmosphere free from the influence of unkind and hasty speech.” Ellen White in Child Guidance, pp. 481, 482CR 124.6

Reflect: In what ways are you guiding and nurturing your children to be compassionate and kind to each other?CR 124.7