Today I was doing a little reading regarding child training and read the verse "The rod and reproof give wisdom" Provers 29:15. The article I was reading pointed out that "Reproof is delivered in words. Reproof is designed to impart wisdom and understanding. Reproof corrects the child's perspective and give him a reason to ovey that is higher than fear. " This made me wonder what exactly "reproof" means, and there with the definition was this quote from Pope:
"Those best can bear reproof, who merit praise."
I only have one young child so I don't know a whole lot, but I've been observing other parent-child relations for 20 years, so I've learned a smidgen. ;) I read once that our words of correction should be very few in comparison to the kind words of encouragement and love that we speak to our children. But I thought, "It seems I say so much in the ways of training and correction!" Well then, start talking to her more!!! When she's playing contentedly go to her, look her in the eyes and smile really big and say I love you randomly throughout the day. When we catch each other's eyes, smile, if I'm not smiling already! Increase the number of words I speak so that the majority will be joyful and encouraging words!
Picture an "older" child, say 4 years old. Think how much better he would receive reproof if it was just the sprinkles on a whole cupcake of praise and encouragement!
Just a thought that encouraged me that I thought I'd write down...
P.S. WE'VE BEEN IN THE NEW HOUSE FOR A COUPLE OF WEEKS NOW!!! WOOHOO! I'll give a more substantial update later.
1 comment:
VERY true Katelyn! Made me think of Proverbs 31:26 AND Colossians 3:12 which says, "Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering?" I have seen the evidence of the truth of this. I accept reproof better from someone who has shown kindness, confidence, gentleness. . .in essence true godly friendship. Wounds from a friend CAN be trusted. (Prov. 27:6) So beautiful to see you growing into such a sweet mommy Katelyn! We love you!
Post a Comment