None of us want our kids to grow up to be selfish or inconsiderate people, but when it comes to the discussion on discipline, we all bring baggage to the conversation. So what does healthy discipline look like? And how can we do it in a way that not only addresses bad behavior, but teaches our kids to make the right decisions?

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MESSAGE NOTES

Today, we’re talking about an uncomfortable subject – discipline. 

 

I’m not going to tell you HOW to discipline, I want to share biblical BOUNDARIES for discipline. 

 

Define Discipline: “Correction driven by love”

 

[Hebrews 12:5-6]

“And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said, “My child, don’t make light of the Lord’s discipline, and don’t give up when he corrects you. For the Lord disciplines those he loves…”

 

 

[Hebrews 12:11]

“No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening – it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained this way.”

 

 

Discipline isn’t something you do TO your child but FOR your child.

 

 

[Proverbs 19:18]

“Discipline your children while there is hope. Otherwise you will ruin their lives.”

 

 

[Galatians 6:7]

“Don’t be misled—you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant.”

 

  • It’s important for our children to learn that living according to God’s Word brings blessing and living outside of God’s Word brings consequences

 

  • It’s OK for your child to go through the stress of having waited until the last minute to do their science project (as long as you walk them through corrective measures for next time)

 

 

[Proverbs 29:15, 17]

“To discipline a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child… Discipline your children, and they will give you peace of mind and will make your heart glad.”

 

Four STAGES of parenting

  • Discipline – 0-7
  • Training – 7-13
  • Coach – 13-20
  • Mentor – 20+

 

 

Kids learn which parents are more strict and they learn to play us off of each other (ESPECIALLY in blended families)

 

[Amos 3:3]

“Can two people walk together without agreeing on the direction?”

 

 

But the more common your boundaries, the healthier your kids become and the safer they feel in your home. They know what to expect!

 

 

  1. Expect first-time and cheerful obedience

 

 

[Colossians 3:20]

“Children, always obey your parents, for this pleases the Lord.”

 

[Philippians 2:14]

“Do everything without complaining and arguing,”

 

 

2. Never discipline in anger

 

 

[Ephesians 4:26, 29]

“And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry,”

“Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.”

 

 

3. Discipline promptly with Instruction and Reconciliation

 

 

[Ephesians 6:4]

“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.”

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Application Questions

1. What stood out to you from this message and why?

2. What is one thing God is telling you to START doing because of this message?

3. What is one thing God is telling you to STOP doing because of this message?

4. How will this message change how you act at home, work and in the your relationships?