Confession. Lately, we haven’t been consistent in discipline. And it’s caused…mayhem. OK, maybe that’s a strong word but really, our kids seem whiny-er and less obedient. Meanwhile we’re more frustrated and short-tempered. It’s felt messy.
But because God is awesome and love and wants what’s best for our family, He faithfully convicted my husband and I. He challenged us to get on the same page and start fresh. Because (just like alllll the books teach) consistency in parenting nurtures safety and trust in the home. And safety and trust breeds greater obedience.
I’m hanging out over at Inspired to Action today. Click here to read the three questions God posed to our spirits for us to consider with Him about our discipline strategy.
I’m also hanging out at the Allume blog today talking about what to do when we don’t feel like a light for Jesus. (Which can easily happen as a mom.) Click here to read that post.
When I was a younger mom, one of my biggest distractions often occured in the mid to late afternoon….as my kids were coming home from school and beginning homework or playing outside, I would be starting dinner. And…..the phone would ring! I had purposefully bought an extra long cord for the kitchen phone (can you tell this was in the days before cell phones?) so I could walk all around my kitchen and talk and cook at the same time – big mistake!! Always, always, always (or so it felt) one of my children would require my attention….and I would get frustrated. Not just because of their needing me, but because I wanted to talk on the phone!! (sounds more like a teenager than I want to admit!) The Lord was gracious to let me (and them) suffer the consequences of my own behavior until I realized there was something I could do about it – politely ask the caller if we could talk later in the evening. And you know what? – it worked!