Wise Words for Moms

I like to use God's words more than my own as much as possible when I discipline. This way my children know that my authority is not my own, it is from God. I have a great resource hanging right on my refrigerator that I'd like to share with you. It's called Wise Words for Moms by Ginger Plowman.

I like it because it has listed several situations, like complaining, defiance, disobedience, fear, arguing, tattling, whining, and others. After each behavior is listed a couple of heart probing questions, a reproof (or "put off") verse, and an encouragement (or "put on") verse, as well as some additional verses that pertain to the situation.

For example, for complaining, one of the questions is "Rather than complaining, what can you be thankful for in this situation?" Then it gives the verse "Do everything without complaining or arguing." (Philippians 2:14--everyone in my house has this verse memorized!) The "put on" verse is about thankfulness: "Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

One thing I like about this chart is it reminds us that we need to be doing more than just telling our kids what they are doing wrong, we need to be filling them up with what they should be doing instead. I have it handy on the fridge. I don't refer to it all the time, but it's nice to know it's there when I need a refresher!

Ginger Plowman has the chart for sale on her website for $3.99. It is listed at $4 on Amazon, or you could get it used.