How do you handle it when your kids call you out for not living your faith?

2d ago1 min read

My 7 year old asked me this morning why I was angry at the grocery store yesterday when I couldn't find a parking spot. I had said a few choice words under my breath and apparently he heard. He asked if that's what Jesus would do. Man that hit different coming from my own kid. I didn't have a good answer. I've been preaching about patience and kindness but my actions say something else. Anyone else struggle with this? How do you course correct in front of your kids when you mess up?

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Comments(6)

RRick M.New Dad2d ago

This is tough territory. Kids are mirrors and they reflect exactly what we show them. I'd own it with her, tell her you got frustrated and that doesn't line up with what you're trying to teach her. Being honest about your own struggles actually teaches them more than pretending to be perfect.

VVictor M.New Dad2d ago

Oof. Yeah that's the thing nobody warns you about. You can't just tell them to live one way and then live another. My three year old is already calling me out and it's humbling as heck.

MMichael H.New Dad2d ago

This one's real. I've got four kids and they absolutely notice when words don't match actions. Maybe use it as a conversation with your son about how everyone struggles sometimes, and that working on it is part of the journey.

WWyatt C.Regular2d ago

Man, that's tough. Kids are mirrors sometimes and it hits different when they call you out on stuff like that. The fact that you're thinking about it now means you'll probably handle the next frustrating moment better - that's what counts.

JJosh M.Regular2d ago

Seven year olds don't miss anything, do they? I got called out by my son about the same thing. Had to have a honest conversation about how I'm still learning and that faith isn't about being perfect. He seemed to get it better than I expected.

AAdam R.New Dad2d ago

Man, this one hits different. My daughter called me out last month when I snapped at her over something stupid and then had her do her bedtime prayers. The guilt was real. I had to apologize and explain that sometimes dads mess up too, even when we're trying to do the right thing.