This article first appeared as a guest post I wrote for Lynn Cowell‘s blog.
Scripture of the Week:
Proverbs 29:15 (NLT)
“To discipline a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child.”
Shame Rx of the Week:
Shame is not what matters most. Character is.
The day started off well. You fixed a healthy breakfast, even had devotion time with your children and popped dinner in the crockpot. Then suddenly there you are smack dab in the middle of everyone’s parenting 101 drama location – the grocery store – and someone’s kid is giving their very best performance ever. Almost had you convinced, too. Only it was your kid—and you know better.
Everyone knows the protocol. Shame the parent. That’s right. Then shame the kid. The characteristic furrowed brow and judgmental stares around you heighten the pressure. You’ve got to do something. Anything.
As all eyes are on you to see what you are going to do, sweet glistens on your forehead and you try to come up with either a courageous, wise response or an escape plan. There is no winning this episode of histrionics brought to you by your child’s exhibition of flesh. Threats hissed underneath your breath are totally visible and audible to those around you and your kid probably knows that they are going to get their way because of the power of shame. Or not . . .
Continue Reading on www.lynncowell.com where a free giveaway of Shame Off You is taking place today!
Lynn Cowell is a national conference speaker with Proverbs 31 Ministries who is passionate about helping women of all ages understand the importance of Christ confidence. She is the author of several books including her newest for women Make Your Move: Finding Unshakable Confidence Despite Your Fears and Failures, and Brave Beauty: Finding the Fearless You just for girls ages 8 – 12.