Relationships in HD — Part 12: Parenting with Christlike Honesty

Description: In Part 12 of Relationships in HD, Pastor Eric continues the series with a heartfelt and practical message on honesty in parenting—how truth-telling reflects the very character of Christ and builds the foundation of trust between parent and child. From 1 Peter 2 and Ephesians 4, we see Jesus as both the model and motive for integrity. He never lied to His disciples, His bride, or His enemies—and neither should we.

Eric walks through the subtle ways Christian parents sometimes compromise honesty, from Santa Claus to empty threats (“Don’t make me turn this car around”) and shows why every word shapes a child’s ability to trust both us and God. Through powerful personal stories—including a raw moment of apology between father and son—this message invites parents to trade manipulation for humility, control for connection, and pride for grace.

The challenge is simple but life-changing: children don’t need perfect parents, but they do need humble ones. Be honest. Own your mistakes. Win and protect your child’s heart—because if you don’t, someone else will.

Key Scriptures (NKJV): Romans 5:8; 1 Peter 2:21–25; Ephesians 4:25; Matthew 5:37; 2 Corinthians 3:2–3; Proverbs 12:22; John 10:27–30.

Highlights:

• Jesus as the model for truth and trust in every relationship.

• Why small lies (“Santa,” “five more minutes”) create big cracks in trust.

• The danger of manipulation and false threats in parenting.

• How honesty builds security and spiritual confidence in children.

• The power of sincere apology—honesty means ownership.

• Restoring broken trust through humility and confession.

• Protecting your child’s heart from the world by modeling Christ at home.

Next Steps: Ask God to show you one area where you’ve lacked honesty with your child—or anyone under your influence. Confess it, take ownership, and seek forgiveness with humility. Then commit to letting your “yes be yes and your no be no,” so your home reflects the heart of Jesus, full of both truth and grace.