Parenting by Design - October 17

Sowing and Reaping

Galatians 6:7-8: Do not be deceived.  A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life (NIV).

One way to help our kids learn this biblical truth is to be consistent in our discipline. When we consistently follow through in giving needed consequences, children learn that their choices really are important and that they will affect the quality of their lives—in other words, they will have to reap what they sow.

No doubt about it, disciplining our kids takes time and energy. We may be tempted to forego consequences because it's inconvenient, we're tired, or we dread our child's reaction. It helps to focus on the big picture and the purpose behind our discipline. While it's important to learn that choices affect life on earth, it's more important for our kids to understand that they will reap what they sow eternally when making a decision to accept Christ.

Teach your kids about sowing and reaping, and help them sow the ultimate seed.