Respecting people’s choices and boundaries even as believers in Christ is crucial in successful human interactions. Several verses in the bible highlight Jesus’s respect for people’s choices and boundaries; for example in Matthew 9:22: “But Jesus turned around, and when He saw her He said, ‘Be of good cheer, daughter; your faith has made you well.’ And the woman was made well from that hour.” Jesus respected the woman’s faith and healed her, honouring her choice to seek Him. Also in John 4:7-9: “A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, ‘Give Me a drink.’ For His disciples had gone away into the city to buy food. Then the woman of Samaria said to Him, ‘How is it that You, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?’ For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.” Despite cultural boundaries, Jesus engaged with the Samaritan woman, showing respect and compassion
As an adult I have learnt to respect people’s choices but not allowing their choices that oppose God’s will influence me while working with them to achieve team goals at work for example. And the problem with many 21st century Christians; in the name of inclusivity and the fear of being left-out or isolated have embraced systems that contravene God’s purpose and will. It is now imperative as believers we teach our children the totality of God’s word because of the subtle spiritual pollution out there in the world.
Teaching children to respect others’ choices and boundaries without compromising faith in God and His word is essential for their social and spiritual development. Here are some strategies you can use:
- Model Respect: Children learn by observing adults. Show respect for others’ decisions and boundaries in your interactions. When someone says “no” to you, acknowledge it gracefully.
- Empathy: Help children understand how others might feel when their requests are denied. Ask questions like, “How would you feel if someone didn’t respect your choice?”
- Role-Playing: Act out scenarios where one child asks for something, and the other child says “no.” Teach them appropriate responses, such as saying, “Okay, thank you for letting me know.”
- Use “I” Statements: Teach children to express their feelings without blaming others. For example, “I feel disappointed when you don’t want to play, but I respect your choice.”
- Discuss Consent: Explain that everyone has the right to say “no” to anything they’re uncomfortable with. Use simple examples like sharing toys or giving hugs.
- Set Boundaries: Encourage children to express their own boundaries. Teach phrases like, “I don’t want to,” or “I need some space.”
- Praise Positive Behaviour: When a child respects someone’s choice, acknowledge it. Say, “I noticed how you accepted your friend’s decision. That’s great!”
- When societal choices contravene God’s word then we stand boldly for God, even if it means standing alone, is a biblical mandate and exemplified by many figures in Scripture. Throughout Scripture, there are numerous examples of individuals who chose to remain faithful to God despite facing opposition, persecution, or isolation. In Daniel 3:16-18; Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego refused to bow to the golden image, choosing to stand alone for God even at the risk of their lives. Their boldness and faith in God’s deliverance are exemplary of standing firm in God’s will despite the pressures around them. We must teach our children that standing for God often requires courage, trust, and unwavering faith. Even if we stand alone, God is with us, strengthening and guiding our path
While the bible demonstrates the importance of respecting others’ choices and boundaries, and we must do this as believers to win souls for God and we must communicate this fact to our children. We must continue to teach our children to treat people that God brings into their life with kindness, empathy, and respect.
On the other hand the world opposes God’s truth and we must also educate our children as believers to “Stand boldly for God”, even if it means standing alone. By teaching children to cultivate a deep relationship with God, standing on His Word, seeking the Holy Spirit’s empowerment, engaging with a faith community, and practicing daily obedience to God; our children can stand firm in their faith in Christ amidst a world that often goes against the will of God
Altar call: For anyone reading this article who is not saved and wants to be part of the family of God or you want to re-dedicate your life back to Jesus, please repeat this out loud. “Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I have sinned against you. Lord Jesus forgive me of my sins. I repent of my sins. Lord Jesus come into my life and be my Lord now and forever in Jesus Name
Feast of Light Word Ministry
