If we want to learn how to landscape our yard, make a turkey or ham for a holiday or make the the best and healthiest dessert; we turn to Pinterest or the internet for directions, but when it comes to raising our children, we are less likely to google how to’s, tips, rules or read books on how to lead our children to achieve their best lives. Too often we just wing it when it comes to parenting, even though we know our choices as parents directly impact the adult lives of our children.
There are hundreds of opinions on how we should raise our children and what way is the best way to discipline, disciple and guide them. So, who’s right? We can only know which way is right by turning to the bible. There are plenty of verses about parenting & living a life for Christ. Here are only a couple:
Colossians 3:21 (ASV) Fathers, provoke not your children, that they be not discouraged. Ephesians 6:4 (CEB) As for parents, don’t provoke your children to anger, but raise them with discipline and instruction about the Lord. Proverbs 13:24 (CEB) Those who withhold the rod hate their children, but the one who loves them applies discipline. Ephesians 4: 17 – 5:21 – Lays out your directions simply – be kind, don’t speak poorly, don’t live of this world, be loving… (please go read this)
Our Home Behavior Change Chart
Talk to anyone that knows me and they’d explain that once I commit to something I’m all in and very intentional. It’s a blessing most of the time :). When marrying my husband I also had the joys of having two new young lives to influence. My daughter and I had our rules and expectations set – my husband and his girls had theirs set. Combining our expectations was no easy feat – but when following biblical guidelines to discipline helped us create expectations for discipline. Based on what we learned about our girls most common struggles, we were able to form a behavior change chart – this is an ever changing chart – As they learn behaviors or we see correction is needed in other areas – we add to the chart. The consequences are set to change the direction of the mind on more Christ like thinking and less selfish thinking. (P.S. I hope the toilet rule makes you laugh – silly struggles)
This is our way of intentionally parenting – Do you have ways that you intentionally parent? Please share in the comments below.
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