The best thing my parents have been for me is there.

All my life, I’ve known I can count on them to be there for me no matter what. In the hardest parts of my life, they didn’t belittle my feelings, even if they were about something small that probably wouldn’t matter in a few days. They respected my heart, my thoughts, and my perspective, even if it didn’t make sense to them. Looking back, I can see how much that affected me.

Being There for Your Child

I didn’t realize it then, but knowing they were simply there for me made me feel secure and valuable. I remember how my mom would always ask me how my day was when I got in the car after school. Even if I didn’t share all the details, she was more than willing to listen. As we built this kind of consistent communication throughout the years, I was able to easily open up to my mom when I did need help or advice.

Now that I’m older, I’ve found that the way my parents have loved me not only taught me how to see myself and others, but also how the Father sees me. I’m always comforted by 1 Peter 5:7; reminded that the Father cares for me. He knows me and cares about what I’m going through. He made my heart and understands me (Psalm 33:15). Even when I don’t open up about all the details, He’s always ready to listen and respond. And as I discover more of His heart for me, He gives me more of His heart for others.

I encourage you to take time to listen to your children—even if they don’t seem interested in talking about what they’re going through or how they feel. The fact that you are there for them will leave a lasting impact. As they mature in faith, they will have a good understanding of the Father’s heart toward them.

This month, meet your kids where they are. Take time every day or a couple times a week to just be there for them. It can be as simple as asking them how their day was. Then pray with them about any struggle they are facing or just spend some time thanking God for all the good things He’s doing in their lives. Whether or not they appreciate it now, they will thank you later for showing love and respect in such a tangible way!