My fifth and sixth grandchildren are due in the next week and three weeks respectively. As an “experienced” granddad of three years, here are ten commandments that Rad Rad (my name to my grandchildren) tries to follow.
- Thou shalt show your grandchildren unconditional love. They should see you as a refuge of grace.
- Thou shalt not interfere with the rules established by the parents. It will confuse your grandchildren and frustrate your children.
- Thou shalt initiate communication with and, if possible, visits to your grandchildren. Don’t always wait on them to come to you.
- Thou shalt not tell the parents how you raised them to suggest to them a better way to raise their children.
- Thou shalt pray for your grandchildren daily.
- Thou shalt not show favoritism for one grandchild over another. You can love each of them “the most.”
- Thou shalt tell your grandchildren about Jesus when they are young and not so young.
- Thou shalt not buy gifts for your grandchildren of which their parents may not approve. Hint: Ask about the drum set.
- Thou shalt speak positively about the grandchildren’s parents to the grandchildren. Your grandchildren adore their parents. Affirm that love and admiration.
- Thou shalt not ignore the parents of your grandchildren. They are still your children, and they still need your love and approval.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article originally appeared here. Thom Rainer is the founder and CEO of Church Answers, an online community and resource for church leaders. Prior to founding Church Answers, Rainer served as president and CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources.
