Is Okay to say, "NO, do not do that."
I know this is the day of "Gentle Parenting" but it is okay to say, "No!" There are plenty of "Don'ts" and "Do nots" in the Bible. Laddle those moments with love, teachable explanations and the realization there are consequences (good and bad) for our behavior.
No matter our age, God is still training us up for heaven. He issues many a "No" in my life.
"My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline, and do not resent his rebuke because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in." Proverbs 3:11-12
As a child, my parents had house rules that were to be followed. There would be major consequences if rules were broken. One particular rule as a teen was "Keep a dime in your pocket, so if you are out and you change your plans and go somewhere other than where you told us, call us and let us know." As a teen I thought that was rediculous. My reasoning was as long as I get home when I am supposed to why does it matter where I am during the in-between time.
I learned the importance of this rule, at 16 years old, when my parents didn't use their dime (probably $25). They were traveling in Europe when my grandfather was murdered. They had checked into the hotel that was on their itinerary and were disappointed in the accommodations. so they cut that stay short, adding another stop, but not letting any of us state side know. That was the very day of an emergency and we had to wait until they reached the next location a day later to notify them.
Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6
Love the Lord your God will all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. Take to heart these words that I give you today. Repeat them to your children. Talk about them when you're at home or away, when you lie down or get up. Write them down, and tie them around your wrist, and wear them as headbands as a reminder. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates. Deuteronomy 6:5-9
This verse screams the need for us to hear instruction time and again. We are prone to wander. Below are some excellent "Don't reminders."
Don’t love to sleep, or you will become poor; Open your eyes, and you will be satisfied with food. Proverbs 20:13
Don’t pick a fight without reason, when no one has done you harm. Proverbs 3:30
Don’t answer the foolish arguments of fools, or you will become as foolish as they are. Proverbs 26:4
Don’t talk so much. You keep putting your foot in your mouth. Be sensible and turn off the flow! Proverbs 10:19
And always remember:
"Don't give up and be helpless in times of trouble." Proverb 24:10 (CEV)
Jesus is alive and we have a built in Helper, the Holy Spirit ready to fill us with peace, direction and purpose.
The Song
“Freedom Hymn” Austin French
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-VfFTVu-6E
