In the Gospel of Matthew, we see God the Father publicly affirming his Son on two significant occasions. In Matthew 3:17, at Jesus’ baptism, God declares, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” Again, in Matthew 17:5, during the Transfiguration, he emphasizes his approval, saying, “This is my beloved Son; listen to him.” These moments highlight the vital role of affirmation, even for the perfect Son of God.
If Jesus, the perfect model of love and obedience, received words of encouragement from his Father, how much more do our imperfect children need affirmation from us? Every child, regardless of their behavior, needs to hear words of love and support. Scriptures like Ephesians 6:4 and Proverbs 16:24 remind us of our responsibility as parents to nurture and uplift our kids.
To provide loving affirmation, keep in mind the three B’s: Be Intentional, Be Authentic, and Be Unique. This means consciously taking the time to express genuine appreciation in ways that resonate with each child.
Additionally, utilize the three T’s of loving affirmation: Talk, Time, and Touch. Engaging in meaningful conversations, dedicating quality time, and offering physical affection can significantly impact a child’s sense of worth. Understanding your child’s love language is crucial as you implement these strategies, ensuring that your affirmation resonates deeply with them.
In a world where challenges abound, let’s remember that our words and actions can build confidence and resilience in our children, nurturing them just as God nurtured his Son.
