Testimony of a Parenting Paradigm Shift
What did I used to believe?
Strict Disciplinarian
Followed advice of Michael Pearl and Richard Fugate
Believed spanking should be the MAIN method of punishment
Believed spanking was a Biblical MANDATE
Believed EVERY parent should spank and it was a sin not to spank.
Believed my children should do what I say, when I say, because I say with no expectation of an explanation!
Where do I believe now?
Strict Discipler
Follow advice of Jesus
Believe if parents are setting the example, modeling righteousness, not abusing their authority and discipling in other ways, spanking will not need to take place
Believe spanking is NOT a Biblical mandate
Believe most parents are not spiritually QUALIFIED to mete out a spanking.
Believe my children should obey, because of previous explanation, because they see us obeying God, and because they appreciate my servant's heart toward them.
Why did I change what I believe?
Because of the way Jesus interacted with others. He was patient, kindhearted, gentle and had a servant's heart.
Because of Scripture that talks about the fruits of the Spirit and the character traits we are to model toward others.
I started thinking about how some people have more kindness and consideration toward strangers than toward their own flesh and blood.
I saw my way was not working.
I wanted something better for my children and their children.
How did I change?
Began to seek wisdom from God.