A point I wanted to share jumped out to me yesterday. In the Christian faith, morals are important, but make a terrible primary focus. When church becomes about “acting right” and a non-stop focus on the right things to do and not do, the heart of the entire faith is lost. For anyone who has been around enough churches I am sure multiple examples and stories come to mind. They do for me, both my own and those of people who have confided in me.
Well the same is true of parenting. It sounds strange to say that morals should not be the main focus because honestly a ton of time must be spent on guiding and refining children. There can be no peace and no getting to the most important things without this.
With that being said, I have seen the effect on children in homes where morals and behavior become the entire focus. The truth is, just like in Christianity/Church, it is the heart that must be the focus. We must always be focusing in on and analyzing the types of people our children are headed towards becoming. We are not creating good little robots or soldiers… they are meant to be formed vessels of God’s love. We must be ever vigilant to root out greed, anger, selfishness, pride. We must magnify and celebrate love, patience, kindness, humility and joy.
If this distinction is not immediately clear to you don’t worry. All I ask is that you pray for eyes to see and I believe God will show you when the time is right.