26 PARENT IN AGREEMENT

Children are a gift from God. Furthermore, we know that it’s God’s will for married couples to have children. Scripture plainly tells us to “be fruitful and multiply” (Gen. 1:26–27), and that “Children’s children are the crown of old men” (Prov. 17:6).

However, what if your children have problem after problem? What happens when one of your kids is rebellious or belligerent? What do you do then?

Studies show that the lowest point of marital happiness is during the teen years. Ask most parents of teenagers and they’ll quickly agree. Not only are your kids going through tremendous changes in their lives, but you are too! And everyone knows that change is very uncomfortable.

To parent in agreement means that both spouses have agreed to boundaries and rules and the consequences of disobedience before they present them to their children. They have already covered the ground of their own differences, paving the way for a unified approach.

Try this: Sit down with your spouse and discuss both your philosophies of parenting. Make note of the differences and similarities of your approaches to discipline, rewards, boundaries and rules. Come into agreement beforehand about each of these areas. Clearly communicate the rules and consequences to your children. Finally, BE CONSISTENT in your discipline.

Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?

Amos 3:3