Parenting by Design - September 4

Complaining and Arguing

Phil 2:14-15:  "Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people" (NLT).

Traffic… gas prices… long lines… screaming children… demanding bosses.  Each day offers lots of opportunities to gripe, complain and argue.  Do you take the bait?

Most times we respond to these situations poorly and without thinking, but consider the fact that these can be opportunities to demonstrate our trust in a powerful, loving God.  When we approach trials from God's eternal perspective, they can become opportunities to show our kids that satisfaction and peace are not based on the world's response to us, but rather our response to the world.  Show them you are willing to accept inconveniences without complaining or arguing and make the best of each day regardless.  This attitude is a "light" to your children.

Let's stop complaining and arguing, and show our children we trust in God's plan.