When Your Kid Calls You Out For Not Living What You Teach

3w ago1 min read

Got frustrated with my son over something stupid last week and raised my voice. Later that night he asked me if I was angry because I wasn't praying about it. Ouch. That one hit different. He's right. I've been reading scripture to them about patience and love and here I am losing my cool. It's humbling when your kids become your mirror. Made me apologize to him and spend some time in prayer about managing my emotions. Being a Christian dad isn't about being perfect. It's about showing them what repentance and growth look like.

6 comments177 views

Comments(6)

MMike R.Regular3w ago

Man that's tough but also kind of good in a way? At least he's paying attention to what you're actually doing. That moment where they call out the hypocrisy is painful but it's also a chance to be real with them and show them how to handle messing up.

NNate B.Regular3w ago

The fact that you're aware of it and bothered by it says a lot. Most parents would just brush it off. Take it as a sign you're on the right track even when you stumble.

KKevinRegular3w ago

Did you have a chance to talk to him about it after? I've found that explaining why I lost my cool and apologizing has actually strengthened things with my kids. They respect the honesty.

RRob H.Regular3w ago

This hits different. I had the same thing happen a couple months ago - got angry over nothing and my son just looked at me with this disappointed face. Really made me stop and think about what I'm teaching him about handling frustration. Did you get a chance to talk to him about it after?

SSam T.Regular3w ago

This hits different, man. When they point out that you're not practicing what you preach it's like a gut check. Those moments are uncomfortable but they're also the ones that stick with me and make me want to do better.

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CChris P.Regular3w ago

The fact that you're reflecting on this means you're already doing the work. Kids are mirrors sometimes and yeah it's hard to look at but that's how we grow as parents.