Scripture Parenting

Let me just state this right here: I do not have all the answers.

Most of the time, I have no answers.

My kids are straight up crazy and have me questioning my parenting daily.

D.A.I.L.Y.

With that being said, I do have some resources that help keep me on track, particularly when my initial response to something isn’t constructive, nor scripture pointing.

One of these frequently used and favorited resources is the book, Parenting with Scripture: A Topical Guide for Teachable Moments by Kara Durbin.

It’s an amazing resource that I (thankfully) find myself grabbing in moments of agitation or speechlessness.

Why?

Because Scripture addresses every heart issue.

Every. Single. One.

And, the behavior that my kids display are just that – heart issues.

Fighting over toys.

Arguing with one another.

Speaking disrespectfully to either myself or Brent.

And, this guide makes all of these issues easily accessible and provide scripture for appropriate redirection.

Which is exactly what I need, because, honestly and unfortunately, my initial go-to response is to return in kind and yell.

I’m not proud of that, but it’s honest.

For example, sometimes homeschooling can bring about some really negative reactions and frustrations that turn into really nasty, disrespectful words towards me.

A few weeks ago, Sprite had one of those moments.

After multiple failed attempts to adjust and regather her words, I sent her upstairs to her room so we could both recenter, and I particularly could save myself from words I would regret.

So, I reached over and picked up this guide and looked up self-control.

This is a big issue of hers (probably gets it from me – which is super awesome and convicting).

Anyway, the guide directed me to scripture, multiple ones actually, but, I picked this one.

Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 1 Peter 5:8-9

I chose this one because it’s important for her to know, she has choices – to resist.

She has a choice to stop, even when the feelings don’t.

It’s important for her to know where these temptations come from – satan.

When she can recognize that, she can also recognize that Jesus has power over it.

And, praying for help from the One who has already defeated satan is all she needs.

So, as a reminder I had her look up and copy the verse.

The guide not only provides Bible verses for redirecting and reminding, but it also supplies some questions for reflection.

FACT: discussing scripture and answering questions doesn’t prevent my kid from sinning again.

TRUTH: it does help reinforce who is in charge, His unconditional love for her, and His power over sin.

In all, I hope these moments reinforce the importance and necessity of grabbing her Bible and surrounding herself in truth when those heavy feelings abound.

I would love to hear what resources you all find helpful while trying to raise your children in the Word?