Using Scripture to Correct and Encourage Our Children

According to II Timothy 3:16-17, the Word of God "is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:  That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works."

I recently wrote about using Scripture when we pray and praise God.  Reading Lisa Whelchel's book Creative Correction has encouraged me to use Bible verses more often when I correct our children.  The words of God are much more effective at showing them how they've sinned against Him than any words that I can say.

For example, one of our daughters sometimes struggles with a negative attitude.  I found several verses that I can talk through with her when the need arises.

• Proverbs 17:22  "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones."

• Philippians 2:14-15  "Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; "  (I can use this to discuss how her light is dimmed when she has a negative attitude.)

• Proverbs 4:23  "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."  All attitude issues are heart issues.

• Ephesians 4:23-24  "And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness."

Another area we need to work on?  Having the girls get along well with each other.  Here are a few verses I can use in dealing with that issue.

• Ephesians 4:32 "And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."

• Psalm 133:1  "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren [or sisters!] to dwell together in unity."   

• John 13:34  "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." 

And lest you think that I don't need Scripture to correct myself, think again!  Here's one I'm currently working on to help me with self control.

• James 1:20  " For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God."  I've come across this verse in several places lately and need to apply it at those times when I get frustrated with my children.  My anger over being interrupted or having to leave what I want to accomplish to work with them is not growing Christ-likeness in my life.

Is there a parenting - or personal - situation you're facing to which you could apply Scripture?