My 7-year-old daughter, Sarah, had developed an undesirable talent: deceiving her parents. Although I'd once worked as a probation officer — determining the truth had been part of my job — my daughter often had me stumped.
We consistently taught principles of integrity in our home, but I knew my daughter needed a more personal message. I began praying that God would give my daughter a clear sense of conviction when she did something deceitful or dishonest.
A few nights later, Sarah said, "Mommy, I have something to tell you. I've been stealing candy from the hall closet and hiding the wrappers. I'm sorry."
I thanked Sarah for being honest — and later moved the candy. The incident reminded me that God has a definite role in my parenting — not only as a daily source of strength, but as one who guides my children toward honesty and maturity.
This article appeared in the Jan/Feb 2012 issue of
Thriving Family magazine. Copyright © 2012 by Pauline Hylton.
Used by permission. ThrivingFamily.com.