Sin is deceptive. Parents,
this is one truth that should never be far from your thoughts. Sin never
presents itself for what it is. Anger appears to be a just response when one is
wronged. A lie seems to be the easy way out of a difficult situation. This is
the nature of sin. It seems to be the right thing to do at the moment. No
matter how long you live, sin will present itself in this way.
Ephesians 4:14 warns of the
deceptive, crafty schemes of sin. Proverbs 4:19 says that those who follow
wicked paths are incapable of knowing why they stumble in life. This is at
least one of the reasons that Proverbs 16 urges parents to use pleasant words
when instructing children. Those who sin are deceiving themselves or they are
being deceived. This requires that we have compassion along with concern. Yes, there must be concern and correction
given when children disobey and indulge their flesh. But it is also important
to remember that sin has been at its deceptive best. Children have believed a
lie when they think they must keep a toy away from an eager sibling. Sin is
taunting them to trust their fleshly desires that it is only right that they
should have the toy. So, if your children have sinned, it is a good and wise
thing to discipline them for their disobedience. But, use pleasant words and an
understanding heart as you discipline.
It is never comforting to
realize that you have been duped or misled by someone. This is what sin does. It encourages you to
take the wrong path and mocks you when you do.
For a young child this sort of deception can be devastating to them.
Therefore, when you discipline remember the ugliness of sin.
Then
we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown
here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of
men in their deceitful scheming. Ephesians 4:14
The sinful act also leads
to lack of security. Harsh words are not helpful when addressing sin. Thus,
Paul follows the model of Proverbs 16 when he says in verse 15 of this same
chapter that you must speak the truth in love.
Have the courage and wisdom
to respond to your children with kind compassion when they sin. They have just
been played by the schemes of the master deceiver. Yes, you must discipline. But discipline in
love and mercy. God's way is a better than the world's way. Don't allow your discipline to be perceived
as kicking your children when they are already down. Sin is always at work. The enemy wants your
good efforts as a parent to be seen as just more attacks on your children.
Counter this with God's wisdom. Use pleasant words to speak the truth in love
to your children.
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Great post! I am putting this in my church bulletin - citing the author of course :-)