“Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child, but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.” (Proverbs 22:15, KJV) Do you to train your children in righteousness? Are you careful to correct and guide them in areas of selfishness and foolishness? Our children will eventually become grown, and what we teach them now can truly impact the rest of their lives—how they handle everything, from their marriage to their conduct in the workplace. Conflict is inevitable in life. Are we teaching our children to handle it now, in their youth, in a healthy and Godly way?

In our home, when there is a dispute between the children, they are not allowed to just come and “tattle” on their sibling. They are taught that this is near to gossip, which is to be avoided. Oftentimes, an older child will come to me and complain about their younger sibling. I quench this conversation quickly, and instead encourage them to go speak with that person alone. They usually continue on, defending themselves and saying all of the reasons why I have to know what their offense is. I then tell them that it does them no good to complain to me, when the other person is the one that really needs to hear it. If they are still not able to work the dispute out after going to talk with the other person, they are instructed to ask the other person to come with them to speak in front of an adult. This is all based out of Matthew chapter 18, where Jesus teaches us how we are to handle ourselves when someone sins against us. The adult then plays the part of a “witness” to them to help them “establish each word”. We only get involved when completely necessary, to guide them in the best way to handle the situation. We deal justly when need be, but also model for them how to speak to each other with respect and humility during a disagreement. This, then, enables them to handle conflict on their own much better in the future, without intervention.

Another area where we guide our children’s hearts is in regards to coveting. To covet something means you feel a strong desire to have something that someone else possesses. It is spoken of repeatedly in the Bible, and the Lord warns us to guard our hearts regarding it. It begins very simply and seemingly innocent with a child. They may only remark how much they would like what their friend or sibling has. It needs to be taught right then and there that we need, instead, to rejoice in others having fun, exciting toys, etc., and not desire—rather—to have it ourselves. When left unchecked, coveting can lead to jealousy and envy. The Lord actually refers to coveting as another form of idolatry! (Colossians 3:5)

There are many times in a child’s life where they can learn Christ-like behavior. Be vigilant, dear mother, and allow yourself to be led by the Holy Spirit, so that your children may have every advantage in their later years!​