12 Huge Mistakes Parents Can AvoidShembull

We Give Them What They Should Earn

The Apostle Paul wrote the first and second epistles to the church in Thessalonica to address some issues he noticed, including a misunderstanding of Christ’s return. There were some Christians who had actually quit their jobs to prepare for it. Paul sharply addressed this specific issue in today’s reading when he made use of what was an ancient proverbial saying, “If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.” He follows up by pointing out that the same people who are not working are getting mixed up in the wrong business.

How does this apply to parenting? When we give our kids what they should earn, we remove from them the privilege of working hard. As Paul outlines, working not only brings the benefit of earnings, but it also keeps us from meandering into dangerous territory. When we challenge our kids to work hard, we put in their hands both the tools to satisfy their needs and the propensity to stay out of unnecessary trouble. This concept is almost too simple. Thanks, Paul.

Plan: Plan some age-appropriate ways you can help your children learn the importance of work.