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“If controlling another human being is the goal, then force is necessary. Fear, intimidation, threats, power-plays, physical pain, those are the means of control. But, if growing healthy humans is the goal, then building trust relationships, encouraging, guiding, leading, teaching, and communicating are the tools for success.” LR Knost. This book is refreshment for the soul, connecting parenting with the grace and redemption brought about by Jesus Christ.
I found Knost’s insights on “sin nature” to be particularly thought-provoking. She explains that sin nature is the capability to sin, not that it in itself is sin: “It is only in our choices when we are old enough to be conscious of sin, in how we use God’s gift of free will, that sin enters the picture. And it is on the Cross, not in an establishment of authority, not in a demand for obedience, not in a display of power, but in the love of a gentle Savior, that sin exits the picture.”
Jesus brought grace and mercy as his methods and message for a reason.
Jesus the Gentle Parent by L.R. Knost
You know the fruits of the spirit, right? Well Knost reminds us that in Matthew 7:16 Jesus said we will recognize His children by their fruit. Love. Joy. Peace. Patience. Kindness. Goodness. Gentleness. Faithfulness. Self-control. “What’s missing? Nothing. God’s Word is perfect. And yet obedience is not included as a fruit of the Spirit. It is not mentioned as a measure of love for God or evidence of a relationship with God. That certainly doesn’t mean that God doesn’t want us to listen to his wise counsel and remain within the safe boundaries he’s shared with us What it does mean is that it’s a heart issue, not an obedience issue, and he wants our trust and thoughtful, considered cooperation, not our fear-driven, mindless obedience..”
Instant obedience and mindless compliance are poor goals, indeed, when raising children.
Jesus the Gentle Parent by L.R. Knost
I found myself nodding in agreement all throughout this book. How about you? Have you read this book? Add to the conversation and share your thoughts so we can all learn together- just put in the reply down below!
Resources for Christian Discipline 