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Parental Alienation refers to a situation where one parent manipulates a child to reject or distance themselves from the other parent, often during or after a divorce or separation. This phenomenon can have profound emotional and psychological effects on both the child and the alienated parent. While the term "parental alienation" is modern, the Bible provides principles and narratives that can be applied to understand and address such family dynamics.

Biblical Principles on Family and Relationships

The Bible emphasizes the importance of family unity and the nurturing of healthy relationships. InEphesians 6:1-4 , children are instructed to "obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 'Honor your father and mother' (which is the first commandment with a promise), 'so that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life on the earth.' Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." This passage underscores the mutual respect and love that should characterize parent-child relationships.

The Role of Parents

Parents are called to be stewards of their children, guiding them in the ways of the Lord.Proverbs 22:6 advises, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." This training involves teaching children to love and respect both parents, fostering an environment where they can thrive emotionally and spiritually.

Conflict and Reconciliation

The Bible acknowledges that conflicts can arise within families, but it also provides guidance for reconciliation.Matthew 5:9 states, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." In situations of parental alienation, both parents are encouraged to seek peace and reconciliation, prioritizing the well-being of the child above personal grievances.

The Dangers of Division

Scripture warns against sowing discord and division.Proverbs 6:16-19 lists things the Lord hates, including "a false witness who gives false testimony, and one who stirs up discord among brothers." Parental alienation can be seen as a form of sowing discord, as it disrupts the God-given family structure and harms the child's relationship with both parents.

Forgiveness and Healing

Forgiveness is a central theme in the Bible and is essential in overcoming the hurt caused by parental alienation.Colossians 3:13 instructs, "Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." Both parents and children are called to forgive and seek healing through God's grace.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not explicitly mention parental alienation, its teachings on family, reconciliation, and forgiveness provide a framework for addressing and healing from such situations. By adhering to biblical principles, families can work towards restoring relationships and fostering an environment of love and respect.Ephesians 6:4
And, you fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
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Psalm 68:5
A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.
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Home-Government.
... Theparental rod destroys the filial love and confidence.... a yoke; its interests are
repulsive, and all its natural affinities give way to completealienation....

Home-Education.
... that the office of teacher is not included in theparental character and... This generally
ends in initiated profligacy, andalienation from home, while at best...

A Prayer for Pardon and Its Plea
... A parent and a child both of them know thatparental pardon does not consist... consider
how much of self-will, how much of indifference, ofalienation from, if...

Paragraphs from Notable Speeches
... would not only cease to entertain any bitterness, oralienation, or distrust... gives
to it the highest character of truly disinterested, sincere,parental advice....

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