Life in the middle of a world that is hectic, demanding, and difficult can weigh heavily on the minds of parents. Because of this it is easy to forget the impact you have on your children. Parent, you are your child’s world. Even when your children become teenagers their life centers around their interaction with you, even if that interaction is unpleasant. For younger children, what Mom and Dad think of them is their world. Proverbs 16:15 makes this point:
When a king’s face brightens, it means life;
his favor is like a rain cloud in spring.
Yes, I realize you are not a king or a queen. But to your children you are the most important person in their world. In a monarchy, such as ancient Israel, the king had the power of life and death. So when a king who smiled at you was a good thing. Your children will also be affected by the expression on your face. Don’t let the pressures of everyday life result in a face that is always deep in thought or frowning. A face that is bright with the joy of Christ and the blessing that sins are forgiven is a precious gift that you can give to your child. Sometimes, when things are hard and your face is bright, your children may ask why you are smiling. It is a blessing to be able to tell them that despite all that is going on, you are grateful for Jesus and you are thrilled that God has given you children to love. Give your kids the blessing of a bright face, especially when things are hard!
One thought on “Your Face Matters”
Thank you so much for this reminder! We have a lot of big changes going on in our house now, and I’ve always marveled at the way my kids’ behavior seems to mirror my own stress, even when I’m trying so hard to keep a joyful attitude. But I think this post has given me the answer…