I Will Not Bless That Behavior

By Teresa Lusk –

“Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord” (Colossians 3:20, NIV). This is what I keep telling our daughter when I have to discipline her.

First, I explain that God gave her parents to prepare her to obey Him when she becomes an adult living without our direction and we are simply her training ground. Then, I tell her God expects her to honor her father and mother (Deuteronomy 5:16, NIV).

Recently, she gave me attitude and was very sassy about a situation. I got onto her about the behavior but did not punish her. However, not long after this incident she came to ask if she could play computer games. This is her favorite pastime, by the way. When she was done requesting a reward for her disobedience, I responded with, “No, absolutely not! I will not bless your behavior.” At the same time I said this, I happened to be on the phone with a friend who commented about the power of that statement.

I know that as a parent, I find myself saying NO a whole lot, and I bet you do as well. The conclusion I came to that day was that from now on, my answer will not only be NO, but when applicable, it will be followed by, “I will not bless that behavior.” I know that my God loves me and forgives me, but He also disciplines those He loves (Proverbs 3:12). Our children must be taught that the ultimate obedience is to Jesus Christ and obedience brings blessings (John 15:7-14, NIV).

Teresa G. Lusk is a public speaker and the author of Good Enough to be a Homemaker and CEO. Visit www.teresalusk.com.

Don’t Cause Your Little Ones to Stumble

By Teresa G. Lusk –

“Just calling to see how you are doing? Oh, and by the way, he asked me to move in with him.” These were the words left on my voice mail from a woman I had been discipling and mentoring, attempting to restore her self-worth through support and the Word of God. Read more

Summer Fun or Fret?

By Teresa G. Lusk –

Summer is great for our kids to rest and enjoy the days! For parents who must work, however, it is a fret when they have to find reliable childcare. As a child who was left to the care of others, I would like to share valuable information and questions as to what we should be aware of as parents when leaving our kids. Some of this information, you may not have the answer to until after you have begun to leave your child with a provider. Read more

I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream

By Teresa G. Lusk –

“Shut the door! Give her back her toy! I told you to stop playing and to sit down!” These are all common screams our children often receive from their parents. Yes, even Christian parents. Read more

The Melting Pot – Preparing to live as a blended family

By Teresa Lusk –

Before adding your loved ones into the melting pot of a blended family, consider the following suggestions: Boundaries and expectations of how your blended family will work should be established. Even biological families struggle to get along, so don’t expect a new step-parent/child relationship to be successful immediately.

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