Raising Heavenly Children on Earth

Children are a gift from God. Psalm 127:3

Our business in this world…is to see what virtues we can teach our children and our families to possess, that they shall have an influence upon others… Ellen G. White, Adventist Home, p. 32

Values and Character Values are our belief system. Character is the activation of our values.

Don’t say things. What you are stands over you the while, and thunders so that I cannot hear what you say to the contrary. —Ralph Waldo Emerson, Letters and Social Aims Merriam-Webster, I. (1992). The Merriam- Webster dictionary of quotations (53). Springfield, MA: Merriam-Webster.

Activity Have a participant write a seven-sentence speech they would like one of their children (when grown) to give about them. Include the personality characteristics they now possess (the ones you would like them to be noted for). What core values did they cherish from their upbringing?

Some Qualities We Want to See in Our Children Fair Honest Trustworthy Forgiving Empathy and caring for others Respectful of others’ rights Respectful of legitimate authority Responsible for their own behavior Capable of generosity and love

Emotional Intelligence: What is it? Emotional intelligence (EQ or EI) is one’s ability to control their emotions. It is being emotionally aware and having the ability to manage your emotions even in stressful situations. Researchers have found that EQ is more predictive of one’s success in life than IQ. EQ leads to happiness in all areas of life, including family relationships.

Emotional Intelligence: Why is it important? Character development is not intrinsic unless one is emotionally aware. The ability to handle one’s emotions under all circumstances is the true test of one’s character. Helping children to manage their emotions is key to them becoming responsible and caring adults.

Parents as Emotion Coaches Become aware of the child’s emotion. Recognize the emotion as an opportunity for intimacy and teaching. Listen empathetically, validating the child’s feelings. Help the child find words to label the emotion he or she is having. Set limits while exploring strategies to solve the problem at hand.

We Are Not Alone Jesus Himself, in His infinite mercy, is working on human hearts, effecting spiritual transformations so amazing that angels look on with astonishment and joy. --Ellen White, 5 Testimonies, p. 731

Building a Bridge from Christian Values to Christian Behavior Respect is critical. Actions speak louder than words. Values must be seen and heard. A capacity to think is essential. Love is foundational.

Love is... Focused attention Time Support Connectedness Limits Commitment

Appreciating the Gift

ELLEN WHITE STATES IT WELL: If Christian [parents] will present to society children with integrity of character, with firm principles, and sound morals, they will have performed the most important of all missionary labors. Their children, thoroughly educated to take their places in society, are the greatest evidence of Christianity that can be given to the world. Child Guidance, p. 163