Help By Helping

Based on the gift each one has received, use it to serve others, as good managers of the varied grace of God.

1 Peter 4:10, HCSB

WE ALL WANT OUR KIDS TO BE HELPFUL. When they demonstrate a helpful spirit, they show that they’re following God’s command to use the gifts they’ve received to serve others.

God wants His followers to serve the people around them. But have you ever thought that there may be more to God’s plan? Sure, He wants us to serve others to benefit His Kingdom and those being helped. But what about the person doing the helping?

It turns out the helper benefits greatly as well. A study at the University of Missouri found that kids who engaged in positive social behaviors—such as volunteering and helping others—were less likely to take part in risky behaviors as young adults. In other words, when your kids help others, they help themselves live godlier lives and build their own moral character.

As parents, we want our kids to be kind, considerate, selfless, and respectful. We can preach those character traits to our kids and model them in our own actions, but one of the most effective ways to build those values may be to encourage our kids to serve.

When our kids serve others, we can also look forward to the benefit of seeing them make healthier choices and display godlier values. Talk about a win-win!

BOTTOM LINE

Encourage your kids to serve. It’ll help your community . . . and your children.

Moment of Strength: Isaiah 58:10-11