Intentional Parenting

Usually, I have the kids start their homework right away.  They give me their folders, put away their lunch boxes, get a snack... and get to work.  

As I go through their folders we chat about the day...

This is one of the times I love most about our weekdays...the time of intentional homework.  They may think the goal is to get it done so they can play...but I want these freshly schooled nuggets of time...to intentionally instill biblical truths and help them filter their daily learning through God's Word.

Today, Caleb had to re do a homework.  He was upset because a schoolmate had bragged and boasted that he had gotten it right.  Now, my son happens to be very, VERY bright.  He is not particularly patient with slower learners or kind with his words.  I try to let him work independently on homework and I don't check everything.  If I had pointed out his mistake in reading instructions, he would never have gotten it wrong in the first place.  But...there are life lessons to learn...

We talked about remembering to read instructions...but we also opened up the Bible...

Luke 6:31 says..."Treat others the way you want to be treated"

Remember that you did not enjoy being treated this way...and when you get a high grade or something similar happens be sure that you are not bragging.  Instead, you could look for someone to help and encourage.  

Eph. 4:32 says..."Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another as Christ has forgiven you."

It wasn't very nice that he did that...You need to be kind, and tenderhearted towards others.  You have to care about your schoolmate.  Christ has forgiven you all your sins...You have to forgive him for acting that way...and remember he might not know about Jesus and how he forgives sin...and he needs to hear how you care about him and forgive him when he acts badly...just like Christ does for us!

I love keeping the gospel central....but it takes effort.  Especially when your flesh wants to tell your kid that you agree that little kid is a snot ball and to 'just stay away from him'...and how his Mom's not particularly nice either.  Sigh.....

Of course, that's not what God desires...so...I intentionally strive to speak Truth....one day at a time.