Affection: Expressing care and closeness through physical touch and through words such as “I love you” or “I care about you.” (Romans 16:16. Mark 10:16)
We mentioned in last week’s plan that if affection is withheld from an infant that he/she may fail to thrive. Affection is THAT important!
Did you know that affection given or withheld by a parent can directly impact your child’s self-esteem later in life? Studies have shown that when a child grows up receiving affection through words and appropriate touch, they are much more likely to grow into adults who have a good sense of self-worth! He/she may feel more confident, happy, ..and a huge plus…is able to show affection to others more easily. On the other hand, if affection was not given or not given enough, that child may grow up feeling unworthy, less confident, depressed and may have difficulty expressing affection towards others.
A hug goes a long way my friends! God created us needy, meaning, just as we need water, food and air to survive we also need affection, (and other relationship needs met) to survive!
Jesus – The Light of the World
(Jesus Meets Our Need For Affection)
Scripture is filled with Jesus’ interactions with His children when He walked this earth. As you read about His interactions you will see His great compassion and affection for His children, even to the point of sacrificing His own life.
Think of Jesus – the man. Think about His character and His heart for others and for you. We must remember that “Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” Now think about your own heart for your children or perhaps your “children of influence”. How would you compare your feelings for them to Jesus’ compassion and affection for you?
Spend some time with these thoughts, won’t you? I bet you will feel so incredibly loved by your heavenly Dad and perhaps He will give you some insight into better loving your own children/children of influence. Enjoy Him! He is excited to spend this time with you!
Walk in the Light of His Word/Do the Book
Let’s do:1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Maybe this sounds a lot like the way you have felt The Lord loving you? Now imagine applying these verses to the way you love your children/children of influence. I believe we can grow to give deeper, more powerful love to the children in our lives!
You And I Are “The Light of the World” – Jesus Said So.
Would you practice being more patient and kind, being less irritable, rejoicing with and believing the best about your children? By treating your child with respect you communicate that your children matter to you and to the family. This allows them to grow up feeling loved and appreciated and a great sense of self worth. Don’t we all want/need that?
Friend, maybe showing affection does not come natural for you. Maybe you did not grow up with affectionate parents. That’s OK! Take small steps and over time you can change your old normal into a new normal! God changes hearts, and He wants our heart to love as He loves. What a great legacy you will be passing to your children.
And remember…..A Hug really does Go A Long Way!