Parenting by Design - March 17

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Prompt Discipline

Ecclesiastes 8:11:  When the sentence for a crime is not quickly carried out, the hearts of the people are filled with schemes to do wrong.

This verse is good advice for parents when they are disciplining their kids. Let's face it—giving consequences to kids is not fun! Because discipline requires time and effort, we may put off this unpleasant task. But if we wait too long, we sometimes forget to follow through.

The Bible understands human nature. The truth is, it is easy to continue to sin when we don't suffer the consequences right away. This is true for our kids as well. While it is often necessary to delay giving a consequence in order to come up with one that is reasonable and appropriate, don't sweep disobedience or rebellion under the rug.

Acknowledge disobedient behavior right away and make a commitment to be consistent in following through.