Shepherding & Instructing a Child's Heart

by Marissa Writes - Wednesday, March 13, 2013

These two books are amazing tools for parents - Shepherding a Child's Heart and Instructing a Child's Heart. There are so many little bits of information that are invaluable for parents as they continue on the path of raising kids.

I completely understand how these books have become such a staple on the bookshelves of christian parents.

If you started reading Shepherding a Child's Heart but felt attacked, with no real tips on how to proceed, I highly, HIGHLY recommend you read Instructing a Child's Heart, as those little bits of real life tips and words of wisdom are in this follow up book.

As for me and my family, I've used many of the tips on formative instruction and deep communication tips along with a few of the tools from the Parenting Solutions book.

Parenting is my job right now, sure there are times when I'm overwhelmed and want to throw in the towel - well I do sometimes... you know put up a baby gate, provide toys and ignore the mess being made while I sit alone one room over praying for peace... But that's life right? We find ourselves stretched thin, and in those moments we lean towards our God and those He's placed in our lives to give us strength. And for now I will have to keep reminding myself, Parenting is my calling right now - period.

The simple outline for the beginning process of discipline was extremely helpful for us as well. The reminder that I am disciplining as form of love, not to punish, was priceless. The steps of discussing the issue at hand in private with the offending child, coming together in prayer, and always ending with the reminder that mommy does love you, even if mommy does not approve of the behavior - great tips.

Also, the time of prayer with my child - to include at least a line of request for me. For example, I often pray in this time for wisdom to react honorably, and not get angry over small things. Just showing my son that I also need to go to God for help makes it more obvious that he can go to God for help when he needs it, even if mommy isn't there. (Granted at four years old, he's not there yet- again planting seeds for the future)

I'll be honest, I do not like spanking. And I do not feel that it is appropriate for every child. Because some children just do not need it. And that is a decision every parent needs to make for each of their kids.

Also I feel that it is essential for both husband and wife to read these books, and discuss how to discipline as a unit. There is nothing more powerful than the united force of mom and dad on the same page.

And I so what the hearts of my boys to be loving and generous. I want them to honorable men some day that have passion. Mostly I want them to know their Savior. And the promise that God will do the heart change is what can pull me through the moments when their sinful nature hits me over the head and I am at a loss. I am called to love them, share the truth with them, and pray for them. God will do the rest - that is a promise that can pull any mama out of the dark parenting trench! (Tweet this thought)

These books have so much in them. If the information I discussed doesn't apply to your circumstances, but you had an interest in the ideas of the Tripps, please check out these books. They often are discounted for the Kindle on Amazon, and totally worth the investment.

Reading List's Rating:

Shepherding a Child's Heart

Instructing a Child's Heart

So now I'd like to hear from you. Are these books you want to use with your children? Have you used these techniques with your kids? Are you against spanking no matter what? Do you and your spouse research parenting techniques?

Missed a part of the series?

Shepherding intro
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5

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