Teaching by Example

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” - Matthew 7:12
  
Have you ever felt disheartened by the behavior of someone you thought you knew well, only to realize that their actions reflected more about their own upbringing and experiences? This is a powerful reminder that the way we, as parents, conduct ourselves dramatically shapes our children’s understanding of respect and integrity.

The story of Eli and his sons in 1 Samuel 2 highlights a crucial lesson for us. Eli’s sons, Hofni and Phineas, were known for their disregard of God’s laws and their blatant disrespect towards others. They took what was not theirs and manipulated situations to their advantage, displaying a troubling lack of respect for both God and people. This behavior was deeply connected to their upbringing, which, it seems, lacked the essential teachings of respect and integrity from their father.
 
It’s easy to be critical of Hofni and Phineas, but their actions beg the question: What are our own children learning from us? Are we modeling the respect and empathy we want them to embody? As parents, our actions speak louder than words. If we show respect to others, including those who may not treat us well, we teach our children to value every individual, regardless of their background or beliefs.

Jesus' teaching in Matthew 7:12 reminds us to treat others as we wish to be treated. This Golden Rule isn’t just a guideline for polite interactions; it’s a fundamental principle for building a respectful and compassionate community. By embodying this principle ourselves, we set a powerful example for our children.
 
Take a moment to reflect on how you interact with others. Are you showing kindness, empathy, and respect in your daily life? How can you model these traits more effectively for your children? Remember, the best way to teach respect is to practice it. Your actions will speak volumes and shape how your children interact with the world around them.

In every interaction, large or small, strive to be an example of respect and integrity to your kids. Your children will notice and, more importantly, they will learn to emulate these qualities in their own lives.