How do we prepare them for the rude, thoughtless comments? How do we respond to those who plant the seeds of feminism in their minds? For a long time, these kinds of comments from others would really anger me. I was angry that people would disregard what the word of God clearly states is the purpose and calling of womanhood; Christian believers following after the ways of this world. It still does upset me to a point. I want all the humanistic ideals to be far, far from our daughters. I want them to only be touched by the word of God and have this implanted in their minds. I want them to Know Truth, Seek Truth, and Breathe Truth. As far as I am able, I will protect them and guard them while their minds are forming, vulnerable little sponges set to soak up whatever is around them. We do not live in a perfect, God-fearing world. Those half-truths (lies) will come, and I and my daughters must be prepared with the Full Armor of God.
So we keep a good relationship. They come to me and tell me what somebody said that was not right (against the Word of God). They know it is not right because we have talked about it (Deuteronomy 6:7). So when someone contradicts God's Word, I remind the children that they always need to compare what someone is saying with what God says in His Word. It is what God says that matters. Even if everybody else is doing or saying the same thing, it is what God says that matters, and that is what we need to follow. Then I find for them the Scripture to show them what God says about a subject. They are happy to hear the Truth, and we pray for that person, that their heart would be softened to the truth of God's Word.
I am sad for our little girls, our little girls who pick up on that others think it is "bad" when God blesses us with another child. I am sad that others treat them like wanting to be a mommy is "not good enough". But I am glad that they are learning that they must stand strong on the truth of God's Word. They have also taken it upon themselves to memorize Scriptures to encourage themselves (like Psalm 127:3).
How about you, dear readers? How do you handle people who make thoughtless remarks, and try to sway your children against the values you are trying to instill in them?
Thanks for stopping by.
I posted today along the same topic, I think there is a lot of prayer that needs to be involved!!!!
ReplyDeleteWell I don't have children yet but I have dealt with this so much! Most recently I finally got to where I didn't feel bad anymore about people's comments for 2 reasons - 1 was exactly what you said that it only matters what God says and thinks of me. And 2 was that every married couple needs to make decisions based on what is best for their family not for the world.
ReplyDeleteRecently someone asked me at a party "What do you do?" And I said I take care of my husband. Someone else said "He's high maintenance." And I know she said that because it seemed like there had to be some explanation. I said "No he's not he's great" And I felt fine but they obviously felt uncomfortable. I have a blog post coming up about this soon!
Yes, it does take prayer, Mrs. Stam, that's for sure.
ReplyDeleteHelen~you are so blessed being able to take care of your man!!! I look forward to your blog post.
Blessings,
Mrs. Q
Mrs. Q,
ReplyDeleteAs you know, I currently don't have any children, but I think it is important to teach children the "why's" of things based upon God's word. This is so important, especially when, unfortunately, most of society is leaning in the wrong direction.
It sounds like you are doing an excellent job with your daughters! :)
-L. Rose
You ask how we handle those who make thoughtless remarks? Well, I used to be one of them. I used to be a head-strong, career-bound, autonomous female before God opened my eyes to a number of things; like my dependence upon Him, my righteousness being as filthy rags, and my need for a meek and gentle spirit. Now, I'm on the other end (your end), of hearing those comments made about me (from family, friends, and strangers). Ironic how God can change us to be polar-opposites of our old selves. Taking something black and making it white as snow. Since I was once one of the "haters"... I try to pray for them. Realizing that I was once just like them, and realizing that if it were not for God's grace, I could STILL be like them. Its hard sometimes when I just want to be defensive and angry about their hurtful (and OBVIOUSLY unbiblical) condemnation of my lifestyle, dress, vocation (housewife)... but I pray that their eyes may be opened as mine were and that "professing Christian women" will surrender their lives to the Sovereign Lord and His all-sufficient scripture. 'nuff said. :-)
ReplyDeleteYou are right--were it not for God's grace, we could still be like them. Praying for them is important. God bless.
Delete