Love And Truth

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BALANCING GOODNESS (LOVE) AND SEVERITY (TRUTH) 

"Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God:
sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you,
provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise,
you also will be cut off."  Romans 11:22

It is interesting to note the number of times the Bible describes God as exhibiting two attributes that are opposites. In this verse, they are goodness and severity. God's love is expressed in His goodness, but it is not His only characteristic. He is also severe with those who disobey. He balances these attributes perfectly as He relates to His children.

We are called to imitate God in our relationships with our kids. We cannot always be "good" because there will be times of rebellion and disobedience in their lives. We cannot always be "severe" because that creates resentment and fear. A balance between the two is our goal, and God promises to give us the wisdom to achieve that balance (Jas 1:5).

Ask God for the wisdom to balance goodness and severity in your relationships with your children. God bless

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