Scripture Reference: Ephesians 6:2

“Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise—

Thank you for joining me today. I’m excited to be here and share with you an important topic that resonates deeply with our faith and family values. At Leaders Wellness Suite, we believe in nurturing a home environment that reflects God’s love and wisdom. Today, we’ll explore the vital role parents play in teaching their children to love and honor their grandparents versus allowing children to make that choice on their own.

As parents, we are entrusted with the sacred duty of guiding our children in the ways of the Lord. One essential aspect of this guidance is teaching them the importance of honoring their grandparents. In Ephesians 6:2, the Bible instructs us to “Honor your father and mother,” a commandment that comes with a promise of well-being and longevity. This directive extends beyond our parents to include our children’s grandparents.

Reflecting on Honoring Grandparents

When we actively teach our children to honor their grandparents, we are instilling in them the values of respect, gratitude, and love. These values are not only biblical but also foundational to their character development. By contrast, allowing children to decide on their own whether or not to honor their grandparents can lead to a lack of understanding and appreciation for the wisdom and blessings that come from our elders.

Personal Story: The Legacy of Love

In my own life, I remember my mother-in-law’s unwavering support after my divorce. She took my children to school and provided a temporary place for us to live when we needed it most. Her actions exemplified selfless love and care, which I have made a point to share with my children. By recounting these stories, I help them see the tangible impact their grandparents have had on their lives.

Professional Insight: The Role of Parents

As a certified transformation coach and someone who has worked with families for many years, I’ve seen firsthand the difference it makes when parents take an active role in teaching their children to honor their grandparents. This teaching should be both through words and actions—modeling respect in our interactions and encouraging our children to spend time with their grandparents, listen to their stories, and express gratitude for their presence.

Overcoming Negative Feelings

It can be challenging to maintain a positive attitude towards our child’s other parent, especially if the relationship is strained. However, it’s essential to overcome any negative feelings to ensure that our attitudes do not affect how our children view and honor their grandparents. By focusing on the positives and setting aside personal grievances, we can foster a loving and respectful environment for our children.

The Balance of Guidance and Freedom

While it’s crucial to guide our children, we must also balance this with giving them the freedom to form their own relationships. Encourage your children to ask questions about their grandparents’ lives, learn from their experiences, and develop a genuine bond. This approach fosters a deeper, more heartfelt connection that goes beyond mere obligation.

Honoring Grandparents in Daily Life

Let’s make a conscious effort to teach our children to honor their grandparents. Here are some practical steps you can take:

1. Share Stories: Regularly share stories of your parents’ kindness and sacrifices with your children.

2. Create Opportunities: Arrange family gatherings or special outings with grandparents to strengthen the bond. 

3. Encourage Communication: Prompt your children to call, write, or visit their grandparents, especially on special occasions.

4. Model Respect: Show respect in your interactions with your parents and in-laws, setting an example for your children.

In closing, let’s remember that teaching our children to love and honor their grandparents is a beautiful way to uphold God’s commandments and strengthen family ties. Let’s pray for the wisdom and patience to guide our children in this important area.

Point to Ponder: 

How can I overcome any negative feelings I might have towards my child’s other parent to ensure that my attitude does not affect the way my child views and honors their grandparents?