FAMILY MATTERS:
Children can learn how to treat others
___My child has a dilemma. She wants to be a friend to a new student at school, but her other friends are mistreating the new child. She wants to be friends with the new classmate but is afraid of how the others will react to her. She does not think the actions of the other children are pleasing to Jesus. She seems to be torn between two choices--doing what she feels is right or being liked by the other children.

KAY TOWERS Program Coordinator LifeWay Fellowship, Killeen

___ Your daughter has the opportunity to learn a very important lesson in life. Doing what is right is not always the popular thing in a group. Children want to be liked and accepted by their peers, so her dilemma is not unusual.
___Her caring and sensitivity to the new child is a characteristic to build on and encourage. Praise her for talking with you and for wanting to find a solution in which Jesus would be pleased. Also, she should be affirmed for questioning the behavior of the other children and measuring their actions against the desires of Jesus.
___Consider the following:
___ Allow her to talk about her feelings related to what is happening.
___ Ask her how she thinks the new child must feel.
___ Talk about why she thinks the others are not accepting the new student.
___ Discuss what she sees as her options in the situation.
___ Consider the possible consequences for her choice of options.
___ Pray with her about her decision.
___In a recent Bible study on Barnabas, I came to realize how many characteristics he had that would help all of us in today's world. Barnabas was an encourager. He looked for the best in others, he spoke up in behalf of others, he was willing to take risks, he was loyal and willing to do what was right, even when it might not have been the popular thing to do.
___Study with your daughter the life of Barnabas. Encourage her to be a Barnabas in this situation. Not only can she be an encourager and friend to the new pupil, she can be an example and role model to the other children.
___You have every right to be proud of your daughter's convictions. Thank God for her resolve.
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The Baptist Standard