Wisdom for ParentingSample

Parenting without Exasperation
by: Boyd Bailey

It can be exasperating to parent with calm consistency and effectiveness. However, one thing is true: training and instructing a child in the Lord extinguishes exasperation. Godly guidelines give a gullible heart security and a sense of loving protection. A little one’s innocence tarnishes into guilty pleasures when discipline is withheld or ignored. Thus, a wise parent defines clear standards so their expectations bring joy, not sadness.

We need boundaries in our behavior as parents so we model humility and wisdom for our children. Indeed, we contribute to a tranquil home culture when we practice, “Do as I say and follow what I do.” Parenting with grace and truth flows from our character and conduct. We confess our angry reaction and ask forgiveness from our son or daughter. We keep our commitments, tell the truth, listen well, love liberally, and obey God. (Hebrews 6:12)

What does it look like to train and instruct your child in the Lord? It begins with teaching the tension of fearing and loving the Lord simultaneously. One motivates behavior out of respect—the other out of affection. The fear of the Lord reminds us of the consequences of sin while loving God invites intimacy. The first is the beginning of wisdom and the latter initiates a relationship. Indeed, our view of God becomes our pattern for parenting.

The way you relate to your Heavenly Father is how you expect your children to relate to you. Thus: no talking back, no disrespect, disobedience, or dishonesty. You reward a compliant attitude, hard work, instant obedience, and a humble heart. Exasperation exists in a leadership vacuum, but when you step up to serve your family, faith flourishes. Loving accountability causes some angst in the beginning but reaps peace in the end. (Deuteronomy 6:5-7)