Parenting Book

My Bible Study group of young moms have been going through a parenting book this spring/fall.

I've had a huge mixture of emotions.

Some days, I feel overwhelmed with all the "areas" we need to work on, until I remember "one thing at a time"....

Other days, I am beyond elated that the Lord is allowing us to learn more about Biblical parenting while the girls are so young....

This week, we're focusing on training/discipline WITH communication. The Proverbs are chalk full of advice to young men to not only LISTEN to the wisdom of his parents but to accept discipline.

I've been fastinated to read through this book and it goes through every major form of discipline and how very few have any true results. His (The author) biggest example was grounding kids. A lot of my friends were grounded when they were young. But what does it accomplish? If it's not done with communication, then in essence you're just sending your kids away from you. It's easier for the parents. You're not learning WHY they're acting out, what issues in their life are bringing out this behavior, you're not dealing with their heart. You're just punishing the FRUIT issues of the ROOT issue. you're not solving anything, you're just telling your children to "go away" for a while.

In any life circumstance and for any reason, I want my daughters to feel the freedom to boldly approach me and know they will be met with compassion and grace, not with any negative reaction of emotion (frustration, yelling, impatience, annoyance).

When I approach the Throne of Grace, I've never once been told by God "Nell, can you just wait 5 minutes till I finish what I'm working on??" But how often do I push my daughters aside while I get "stuff" done. While I will never pretend to be God to them.....I do represent Christ to them, and that's enough to keep me praying.

So, my goal for this week is to allow my daughters to approach me anytime and know that with grace, I will take the time to "get on their level" and understand that to them....What they're dealing with is a BIG DEAL. And show them patience and love, and compassion when they fall short. One step in building that communication/training/discipline relationship that's so vital.