Chapter 10: Embracing Biblical Methods: A Life of Communication
Tripp discusses how communication must become a lifestyle and not an isolated event in our parenting. This chapter talks about the cost vs. the benefits of such a lifestyle. Some of the costs include: active listening, mental stamina, and being present in the moment. Some of the benefits include: fulfilling parent-child relationships, preparation for relationships outside of the family, and sensing God's redemptive plan in the world, as well as character development.
Some interesting points from the chapter:
- Communication not only disciplines, it also disciples. pg 93
- You will never have the hearts of your children if you talk to them only when something has gone wrong. pg 93
- Children long to be known, understood, discipled and loved. pg 96
- (communication) means seeing character development as more important than short-term gratification. pg 99-10
Tripp leaves us with the question is it worth the cost??? That's a question that each parent must decide for themselves.
I loved the premise of this chapter: reminding us that parenting is not temporary. That once you have kids, parenting is for the rest of your life. How easy it is to forget to keep practicing the skills that we are learning. I've truly found these chapters on communication to be very helpful.
Questions for discussion:
1. If you were to have the kind of communication with your child outlined here, what would the cost be for you? Are you willing to pay that price?
4. What are the sanctification issues that you would need to address in order to lead your children in the ways set forth in this chapter?
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