Compassion

The holiday season is a great time to teach our children compassion.  

Ephesians 6:7 says "Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord and not men."

This verse should not be in word only but in action. As parents and teachers we should model compassion before our children. 

Matthew 6:3 says "But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing..."

Our motive should be for Jesus and not ourselves. If children just see Christmas as a time to receive they would be missing out on so much.  

Hone in on each child's unique personality and their God-given gifts. Each child has their own unique personality and will each have different ideas of what types of service projects they would like to undertake. In addition, they each have their own spiritual gifts.   

  

Bulling

Let’s examine some reasons why children act out this way. Knowing the possible reasons can keep your heart soft while you seek to help a bully in your church.

Parents set a poor example. The old adage, “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree,” proves true. Children learn their behaviors from role models.

A need for control may cause some kids to bully. Kids who frequently experience abuse or neglect in their home are more likely to bully.

Substance abuse can be a factor. Children who are bullies may drink alcohol, use tobacco, and take drugs. Being under the influence of these items can become a factor in child bullying. Even high caffeine energy drinks can alter a child’s personality and increase aggressiveness.

An absence of spiritual leadership will lead a child to bullying. Jesus taught, “Anyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life in him.” 1 John 3:15

(Next week we’ll look at some ways to cope with bullying.  I will be teaching a lesson on bullying on Sunday, 11/13/11 and Wednesday, 11/16/011 )