Discipling Our Children

I went to the Homeschool Convention this past weekend along with about a million other people. I love it! This year I didn't come away with a new curriculum plan or millions of questions about what I'm going to do next year. This year, I came away with a new understanding of my role in my children's lives.

First of all, RC Sproul Jr. spoke in one of his sessions about Deuteronomy 6:5-9. This is a passage Roddy and I also speak of in our parenting classes on Sundays. He said we can't live out this passage - teaching Jesus all day, every day - and send our kids to school for 6-8 hours a day. Just confirmed what I already believe.

Secondly, Phil Downer (father of 6) spoke on discipling our children. Which prompted me to look at how Jesus discipled his 12 children.

1. He was with them! As stay home moms we think, "Of course, I'm with them." But being on the computer and phone for hours a day, doesn't count. (Guess I better hurry, right.)

2. He taught them as they sat, walked, rested, and rose. God's Word must be part of everything in our day.

3. He led by example. Yikes! That is so hard. But I know when I fail, to apologize. Oh and how quickly they forgive. I also know this means I need to show compassion not condemnation to my children when they fail.

4. He took time away to spend alone with God. Do we seek Him early? Late? Throughout the day?

5. He loved them. Beverly Bradley says Jesus doesn't save us to fix us. He suffered excruciatingly and died for us so that He could be with us because He loves us! I am a fixer. I want to fix everything. You tell me you don't feel well and I'll tell you how you can feel better. You want to eat better, I'll make a plan for you. You want to have a more efficient schedule, I'll get you going. Want to save some money, I'll whip that budget into shape in no time. My kids not quite trained yet, I'm on the job, Bob. And they do need training and discipline, but my goal should not be to "fix" them. My goal, because I love them and want what is best for them, should be to teach of God's blessings for a life that honors Him.

There is so much more to be learned from Jesus. I'm thankful He is patient with me and continues to teach me these things.