Finally, are parents too ready to “bargain” away their parental influence and allow their child to set the parameters as this teenager did by informing her parents that she would accept a monetary reward? Many parents would agree that children should be taught that parents are the decision-making authority in a traditional Christian parent-child relationship (Ephesians 6:2). Parents are thus the ones who guide their children and determine what is best for them. It stands to reason, using biblical principles, that it is the parent not the child who decides the issue concerning a reward.
There are many theoretical approaches to how someone should effectively parent. Those approaches change from time to time and can create a parenting dilemma for many parents confused about which approach is best. Parenting dilemmas can be reduced for many parents if biblical principles are followed instead of the most current parenting trend of the day. Biblical principles are unchanging and a perfect step-by-step guide for parenting success.
Susan J. Calloway Knowles is a Licensed Christian Marriage & Family Therapist and former practicing Family Law Attorney. She is also a Christian music Songwriter. Susan’s songs can be found at www.worshipsong.com. Her website is www.susanknowles.com.
Publication date: February 26, 2013
