R-E-S-P-E-C-T

There we sat at dinner—a time that, in my mind, is supposed to be calm and non-stressful. (I’ve even heard food digests better in a peaceful environment.)  But, after a draining workday, little things can seem huge.  The kids were planning yet another summer business endeavor which crawled all over my husband. He began lecturing the negatives of such an endeavor—point 1, point 2—I felt like we were in a business meeting.  I must have rolled my eyes.  I glanced at my daughter who wasn’t listening to her father.  She was looking at me.  Her response to point 1 and 2:  rolling her eyes also!  

Children do what we do . . . . Boy, that's a scary thought for me.  How do you treat your husband?  Do you respect him with your words, actions, attitudes, eyes?  I struggle sometimes when I feel so justified in my disrespect.  Can you relate?   I think the best thing we as moms can do to help our children respect their dad is to treat him with respect ourselves. 

Here are some Father's Day (and everyday) tips to help our children respect their fathers. Give'm a try this week!

-A compliment a day goes a long way! Brag on your husband in front of your children and in front of him.
-Show me the love! Let your children know how much you love their daddy.  Show affection in front of your children.  They may say, “Yuck!”  But it provides much needed security for their lives.
-Instead of being Put-out –Pray!  Include your children in praying for dad’s job, leadership, etc.
-Give him grace. Show him grace even when he doesn't deserve it . . . . Remember, neither do we.  Nehemiah 9:17b says “But you are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love.”
-Phone Manners  The next time you are in the middle of something and your husband calls you on the phone, be aware of your tone of voice—are you respectful? . . . Little ears may be listening and learning.
-“Daddy’s Home!” Be as excited to see your husband when he comes home from work as your children are!  Make yourself stop what you are doing to greet him. 
- Choose your battles. When you think your husband is being unfair (and it’s a battle you need to fight), talk to your husband in private; listen first and speak last. Psalm 141:3 “Set a guard over my mouth O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.”

Making Dad happy this week…

Sing it with me!
"R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Find out what it means to me!"
...and Dad

Laurie

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