When Isaac and Rebekah became the "proud" parents of twin boys, they probably never thought they would have the issue of favoritism enter their family. But it did! Isaac loved Esau because he was such a good hunter and brought home meat from wild game. Jacob, on the other hand, stayed around home and is said to have been quite handy in making stew—he was Momma Rebekah's favorite son (Genesis 25:28).

You know the story how Rebekah coached Jacob on how to steal the final blessing from Esau, which increased the hatred emanating from Esau's heart toward his twin brother. Jacob had to leave his family for his own protection and safety.

Playing favorites among children is not a healthy exercise in rearing a family. Children need to feel loved and appreciated equally by both parents. When I was growing up, I thought my dad liked my brother better than he did me. After many years of adulthood, I told my brother, and he retorted that he thought I was the "favorite"! We both had misperceptions. Since it's so easy to give the wrong impression, parents must be extra careful. The feeling of not being as acceptable to one parent can hinder healthy growth and development.

God is a God of fairness and balance (Ezekiel 18:25). He gives to us what we need and is always there for us. As parents, we need to reflect this characteristic of God and strive to make sure that we do not play favorites among our children. (For more about the principle of fairness, see James 2:1-9 and Colossians 4:1.)

Sure, we might relate better to one child because of his or her personality, interests or mental ability, but we dare not allow ourselves to play favorites to the detriment of our children's development.

May God guide us to become more like He is—equitable and loving—as we rear our children in His way of life.