Why is it that we, as parents, so often want, even demand, obedience from our children? We think we can make them obey us by fear, or bribery. I know the Bible says, "Thou shall obey thy mother and father.", but doesn't that tell us that God has a hand in that too? I know I didn't obey my parents all the time and I came out alright.
I've fallen into this way of thinking lately and I want to stop. It's not helping anyone in this house at all. Why do I feel this way? I am afraid that my kids will grow up to be law breakers and in jail. I don't want others to look at me and think, "that woman can't control her kids".
What is control anyway? Is is a quitet, "obedient" child that can't express themselves? Or is it a child that's allowed to express ALL emotions no matter where they are and obey their parents out of love instead of fear.
Anyway, I am striving to get rid of these thoughts. Number one, I don't live in fear. I refuse to do it. Number two, I'd much rather have a great relationship with my child than impress the nosey old lady next door.
2 comments:
I'm struggling with this right now so your post really resonates with me. I seem to fly off the handle so much lately and really didn't put my finger on the reason until I read your post. Praying with you. :)
I'm so glad I could help.
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