For the Bible tells me so....

So, I've been reading a wonderful book that my sweet friend Ashley recommended called Don't Make Me Count to 3 (Ginger Plowman). My husband and mom make fun of me for always reading some new parenting book, trying whatever it says for a few days, and then abandoning it. However, I think this one's going to stick! The basic idea of the book is that you have to discipline by reaching (and changing) your child's heart instead of just getting him/her to obey at that moment. Of course, the best way to do this is by using scripture to show the error of their ways and bringing them to repentance... sound familiar? It compares our responsibility to discipline our children with God's holy righteousness- He loves us too much to let us continue unrepentant in our sins. This really hit home with me since Hannah does have a pretty strong will- I can sometimes talk her into doing things, or reason, or beg :), but I know this is not effective in the long run.

So, I've been really talking to her about different scripture (mostly "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right", "Honor your mother and father", and "Be ye kind one to another"). Tonight at dinner, we were talking about how she would need to take her medicine (just had a bout with strep throat). She informed us that she would take it b/c "You should take your medicine- it says that in the Bible". While that was definitely a funny moment, it let me know that at least she's getting the idea that we do things because we are commanded by God... not because we've been threatened, bribed, etc. Hopefully we can continue this journey with God's help and wisdom!