The Wonder of a Child

I remember the first time as an adult seeing the ocean. It literally took my breath away. It reminds me of how a child sees things. Everything is a first to them and they are in awe of most all they see.

They look to their parents as someone they love deeply and trust completely. They become aware of what pleases and displeases them. They realize early on that there are consequences for bad behavior. And if a parent is being a good person guided by Jesus, they are fair and just. They are not cruel or unkind but take the time to breathe before rendering any sort of discipline.

Who ever said that discipline had to be hitting? Does a spanking (not a beating) occur at times? Sure. But, according to Dr Dodson, most of that should be over by the time they are 7 or 8. If you are still “spanking” after that, maybe you are being a little lazy on the parenting side. These kiddos eventually grow into teenagers and need to have experienced more from you as a parent than constant bullying with the threat of “you are gonna get it”.

If wielding a strap or belt seems easier for you instead of sitting down with your preteen or teenager and talking, think about what outcome you are looking for here. Sure, you are tired and maybe stressed, all the more reason to not pick up that belt.

I always thought it was important to let my kids know what my expectations were beforehand. This is where the talking comes in. Talk until you are “blue in the face” if you have to. But stop the abuse.

The parents in today’s scripture gives us a clue into giving your kids a great start in life. They brought their children to Jesus for His blessing. Imagine the look of wonder and awe in their eyes and the deep impression it made on those little hearts.

These parents understood that their babies were a gift from God and wanted them to know Jesus. If all parents raised their kids with this same understanding, there would be less trauma and more love. They could raise their family knowing that Jesus is right there with them. Imagine how much better the outcome would be.

Mark 10:15-16 NLT

[15] I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn't receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it." [16] Then he took the children in his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them. #paulaandthebible #helpforyourdailywalk