Parenting by Design - April 12

The easy way out

1 Kings 1:6: His father had never interfered with him by asking, "Why do you behave as you do?" He was also very handsome and was born next after Absalom (NIV).

Adonijah was a handsome and pampered son of David. As a result of his privileged upbringing and the fact that he was the oldest living son, he felt he deserved the throne of Israel more than his brother Solomon. A significant part of the development of Adonijah's proud and selfish character was the fact that his father, David, failed to hold him accountable for his actions. The result? Adonijah led a revolt against his father and paid with his life.

Kids need loving discipline to learn godly values and wisdom. Failure to deliver consequences permits sinful attitudes to fester and grow. Help your kids develop integrity and character by taking the time and energy to follow through with discipline when necessary.

One of the most loving things we can do for our kids is to hold them accountable through discipline.