Biblical Answer

Why Did My Adult Child Turn Against Me?

#### A Glimpse into the Past

The Bible teaches us that we all have a tendency to hurt those closest to us, especially our children. This can be due to our own emotional immaturity, poor parenting skills, or a lack of self-awareness. As a parent, you may have unintentionally hurt your child with your words or actions, leading them to feel unloved, unappreciated, or even rejected. Perhaps you were too hard on them, causing them to feel inferior and frustrated. Alternatively, you may have been too lenient, failing to provide the necessary boundaries, training, and correction they needed to grow into independence. Whatever the reason, it's essential to acknowledge that your actions, or lack thereof, may have contributed to your child's rebellion against you.

#### The Consequences of Unhealthy Parenting

When we parent in a way that is not guided by God's wisdom, we risk creating a cycle of hurt and rebellion in our children. As the Bible says, "A parents life is a childs guidebook. Your kids are copying you." (Proverbs 22:6) If we model unhealthy behaviors, such as anger, criticism, or control, our children are likely to adopt these same patterns in their own lives. This can lead to a breakdown in communication, trust, and ultimately, a turning away from us as parents. By acknowledging our own flaws and shortcomings, we can begin to break this cycle and create a more loving, supportive, and God-honoring environment for our children.

#### The Power of Humility and Repentance

The good news is that it's never too late to change and seek forgiveness from our children. By humbling ourselves and acknowledging our mistakes, we can begin to rebuild trust and repair our relationships. This requires a willingness to listen, to apologize, and to seek God's guidance in our parenting. As the Bible teaches, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs." (1 Corinthians 13:4-5) By embracing this kind of love and humility, we can create a safe and supportive environment for our children to grow, learn, and thrive, and ultimately, to turn back to us and to God.