Fri Sep 27 04:02:00 UTC 2024: ## “Good” Kids Need Jesus Too: A Father’s Guide to Raising Children Who See Their Need for Grace

**By Jimmy Needham**

Singer-songwriter and father of five, Jimmy Needham, tackles a crucial question facing Christian parents today: how do we raise children who understand their need for God’s grace, even when they exhibit seemingly “good” behavior?

Needham argues that while we often focus on preventing our kids from engaging in “outside bad” actions like lying or stealing, we often overlook the “inside bad” – the hidden heart attitudes that can be just as damaging. He suggests teaching children that jealousy, envy, or pride can be just as dangerous as outwardly visible sins.

He also emphasizes the importance of repentance, not just from bad actions, but from the bad motivations behind good actions. Using the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, Needham suggests that even seemingly “good” behavior can be detrimental if done for self-glory rather than for God’s glory.

Needham stresses the power of modeling this truth for children, pointing to his wife’s example of openly confessing her own failings to their children, even when the children were clearly more at fault. This demonstrates to their children that everyone needs the grace of the cross, even seemingly “good” parents.

In conclusion, Needham reminds us that Jesus came for the “bad guys,” and that includes our seemingly “good” children. By helping them understand their need for grace, we empower them to embrace the healing and transformation that comes from following Jesus.

**Needham’s article is an important reminder for parents to go beyond simply teaching obedience and good behavior, and to actively guide their children to see their need for God’s grace in all aspects of their lives.**

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