Here are some tips for being a good parent: Model the behavior you want to see. Show genuine love. Be involved in your child’s life. Watch your own child’s development as it affects their actions. Set rules. Teach them to make independent and wise decisions. Be consistent. Avoid harsh discipline because they will treat others the way you treat them. Explain your rules and decisions. And always treat your child with respect. The Bible instructs both children and parents. We read in Ephesians 6: “Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord, for this is the right thing to do. ‘Honor your father and mother.’ This is the first commandment with a promise: If you honor your father and mother, ‘things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth.’ Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” Biblical principles, if followed, can help us bring up children with a moral character that honors God and treats others with love and respect. In this way we help make our world a better place to live.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
