Biblical Answer

Telling the Truth to Our Children

As parents, it's essential to build trust with our children by being truthful and honest with them. Children desire and deserve honesty and loyalty from us, and lying can create fear in their hearts. When we lie to our children, we may think we're protecting them, but in reality, we're undermining their trust in us. This can lead to a vicious cycle where children become habitual liars themselves.

When our children ask us a question or reveal something that's hard to hear, it's crucial to respond in a way that shows we're approachable and willing to listen. We should avoid reacting with anger or defensiveness, which can make our children feel like they're in trouble. Instead, we should create a safe space where they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings with us. As the Bible says, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud" (1 Corinthians 13:4). By showing love and compassion, we can help our children feel secure and build a strong foundation for our relationship.

Ultimately, telling the truth to our children is a gift that can benefit them throughout their lives. When we're honest with our children, we're teaching them the value of integrity and trustworthiness. We're showing them that we're committed to building a strong and loving relationship with them, even when it's difficult. By being truthful and transparent, we can help our children develop a strong sense of self and a positive self-image. As Proverbs 22:6 says, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." By teaching our children the importance of honesty and integrity, we're giving them a valuable gift that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.