How to Build Moral Courage in Your Kids

Respect, humility and courage – foundational to a happy, healthy society – have been diminished in our culture.

My wife and I aimed to instill those values in our boys, Trent and Troy, by enrolling them in Cotillion, an etiquette class that prepares children to interact with each other with manners as mature young men and women.

The boys were apprehensive, but I assured them, “Don’t worry, guys. They’ll mostly teach you table manners.” Boy, was I wrong. A good portion of the experience was about ballroom-style dancing. They were mortified. I still remember my oldest, Trent, glaring at me from across the room, his eyes saying, “Wait until I get a hold of you.”

Fortunately, it all turned out for the best. Those unexpected moments contributed to their growth as much as the planned lessons. Later, Trent told me, “That’s where I learned how to shake someone’s hand properly and look an adult in the eye.”

If you’re wondering how to raise children who are morally courageous, grounded in truth, and able to stand strong against the temptations of today’s culture, tune in to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly. My guest is author Jill Garner.

She helps parents raise children who are “morally courageous, grounded in truth, and fortified with self-respect.” She says children need GRIT, which she defines as “stubbornness with a purpose”:

Guts – The courage to try something new, answer a question in class, or stand up for what’s right.
Resilience – The ability to bounce back and grow from hardships, mistakes, defeats and difficult experiences.
Integrity – The courage to meet the demands of reality.
Tenacity – The quality displayed by someone who just won’t quit – who keeps trying until they reach their goal.

Listen to our full conversation on your local radio station, online, on Apple Podcasts, or take us with you on our free phone app.

Before I close, I’d like to extend an invitation for you to become a special partner with us through our monthly “Friends of Focus on the Family” program. When you do, I’ll send you a copy of Jill Garner’s Book StrongHeart: Cultivating Humility, Respect, and Resiliency in Your Child as a way of saying thank you for touching others with the love of Christ. You’ll also receive member-exclusive benefits. To make your pledge, or for more information, click here or call 1-800-A-FAMILY (232-6459).