Sunnybrook Unscripted #90 - Obey, More Than A Brand– 2024 Re-Release

Episode Notes: 

~The overall goal of parenting is to bring up a biblically and morally responsible child.~ 

Obedience is a critical foundation of your parenting role. 

Two levels of obedience: 

• Childishness- needs training, not discipline 

•Foolishness – willful disobedience; needs discipline and consequences 

“Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far away.” Proverbs 22:15 

Characteristics of obedience: 

• First time obedience – When you say, they obey (whatever you’re going to say on 3 say on 1) and be consistent. Set a clear standard. 

• Obey without complaint – no whining or disrespect • Without challenge – no talking you out of something 

• Obey completely- not halfway 

Parenting can be exhausting. But if you don’t spend time early on with obedience, you’ll only find it more exhausting in the later phases. 

 Ways to help your child be obedient: 

• Look them in the eye when giving instruction 

• Expect respectful response – yes ma’am 

• Say what you mean and mean what you say- follow through! 

• Give 5 minute preparation for what you’re going to ask them to do (5 minute warning before we get out of the pool) 

 Pitfalls: 
• Threatening and repeating- it undermines your authority 

• Bribing parent – should not bribe for obedience 

• Never negotiate in the midst of conflict – expect obedience 

 Ask yourself? Does anyone besides you enjoy your children? Are they well-behaved and respectful to others? 

 Discussion Questions: 

1. What expectations have you had up to this point when it comes to obedience in your child’s life? 

2. How has this podcast impacted your perspectives? 

3. When it comes to the characteristics of obedience, with which does your child(ren) struggle the most? How might you shore up your resolve in these areas? 

4. What pitfalls given do you most tend to fall into when it comes to parenting? 

5. What’s one commitment you can make to yourself and your spouse to avoid those pitfalls?