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What are rules REALLY made for?

I just finished the book of Leviticus. Besides my sigh of relief that I made it through, I realize how glad I am for Jesus!


I kept reading rule after rule, realizing there would be NO WAY I could ever keep them all straight.
It's a lot of work to instruct in the way she should go!


And then I started thinking, "I wonder if that's how Gracelyn feels sometimes?"


I find myself always using negatives: "Don't talk like a baby. Don't stand on the fireplace. Don't pick Jemma up, especially by the neck!"


She probably wonders, "What can I do?"


So I'm trying to change the way I phrase things. For example, instead of, "Don't talk like a baby," I say, "Using big girl words/tone of voice would help me understand you." That way she knows what is appropriate, but it doesn't seem so negative. I want her to learn, but I have to admit, I'm tired of always saying no!


Changing my approach takes more effort on my part. But that's what being a parent is all about.


And I told her, the only rule she has to follow: Obey Mommy and Daddy, the first time, every time, with a happy heart. Yes, this covers a lot of area, but it just deals with one thing. Listening to, and respecting, her parents.


I'm hoping these little adjustments will work--the defiance of three is about to drive me crazy!

Comments

  1. Amen! I just told Robbie yesterday, that I feel like such a negative person - saying "Don't" and "No". It takes a lot of effort to give the commands in a positive manner, but I certainly try.

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  2. I'm struggling with the same thing. It is so hard to not throw so many rules at them. They constantly need training, but you're right, it doesn't have to be a negative. Three is definitely more challenging than two. I'm expecting her to be an angel by the time she's four :)

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