10 Ways You Can Shape Children's Lives
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Notice them. Mention something about them to show that you see or acknowledge their presence in some way.
Encourage them. Help them to develop a natural ability. “I knew you could do that!”
Get them to talk. Enable them to rid themselves of strong, pent-up feelings. Sift good ideas from poor ones. No corrections, just let them talk.
Listen to them. Give them your undivided attention. We can pass on God’s goodness as we “incline our ears” and listen to each child.
Inquire about their plans for the future. Such questions can cause children to feel that there is someone really interested in them and may start a flow of thought toward the future. They need to know that God has a plan for their lives.
Let them ask you questions. Most people who ask a question are not so much seeking an answer as a chance to talk about the subject. Lead children to talk further rather than giving a pat answer.
Lift up ideals before them. Children are natural hero worshipers. It’s never too early to bolster their admiration for people who have done noble things in their lifetime, as well as great Bible heroes.
Compliment them. This will assure them of your love and concern.
Share from your own like experience. “Let me tell you what happened to me once.” helps more than a lecture. By sharing what God has done for us we help the child have a hope-filled outlook.
Lead them to Christ and encourage them. The greatest influence we can have on children is for eternity. After leading them to the Lord we need to guide and encourage them regularly in their Christian walk.
You may do a number of worthwhile things in your life,
but nothing will pay such dividends as investing in a child.