Children, especially teenagers, place a significant amount of importance on their online presence and the content that they curate. They equate social media reactions with appreciation, validation, and even love.

In many ways, this shift in how we measure love has made it more challenging for parents to teach their children the true meaning of love.

Loved beyond likes and followers.

As we know, love is a complex emotion that requires patience, kindness, and sacrifice.

True love is the kind that is unconditional; the type that we show to our family and friends regardless of circumstances. It’s a deep and abiding feeling that transcends physical attraction, financial wealth, or social status.

But, as parents, how can we teach this kind of love to our children?

This is Passion Week when we celebrate Easter.

The Bible tells us in John 3:16 that “For God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life.”

This verse shows that God’s love for humanity is so profound that He was willing to sacrifice His son, Jesus Christ, to save us from our sins.

Now, don’t you think that love goes beyond likes and followers?

Of course! And that’s why Easter is a perfect opportunity for us to share not only God’s love with them, but how real love looks.

You see, Jesus willingly gave His life for us, suffering and dying on the cross, to pay the price for our sins. This shows us how far God’s love extends and the lengths He was willing to go to show us His love.

Now let us not forget the resurrection of Jesus to explain how love triumphs over death. Jesus didn’t remain in the grave, because on the third day, He rose from the dead, proving that He had conquered death and sin.

God’s love is stronger than anything else in this world.

The K.I.S.S. ~ Love beyond likes and followers!

How you love your child goes beyond likes and followers.

Create an open and safe environment where kids can share their feelings, opinions, and doubts. Be sure to take time to listen actively and actively respond with empathy, understanding, and guidance. This teaches children how to communicate with others honestly and with love.

Model appropriate behaviors demonstrating love and respect. Children look up to their parents and follow their examples, so it’s important to set high standards and be consistent in our actions. Little eyes are watching.

Teach children to value genuine relationships over superficial ones. Encourage them to invest their time and resources in nurturing friendships that are based on mutual respect and common interests, rather than focusing on building their online image or receiving social media validation. This will teach children the value of authentic connections and how to recognize true love.

However, when life gets a little crazy, and you are drifting into another season, be sure to teach about forgiveness. Love is only as great as it is to forgive. In Romans 5:8, it says that “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This means that God loved us before we even loved Him back, and He forgives us even though we don’t deserve it.

Love is sacrificial, forgiving, and triumphant. When you nurture your relationship with your children to see how God showed us how to love, that is the best gift you can give.

No more focusing on likes and followers. See your child’s heart as God sees you!

Many blessings this Easter season.

PRAYER: May the Lord bless your love for your children.

“Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!“