Courage to Correct - Part 1

Moral dropouts won't listen to their elders; welcoming correction is a mark of good sense. Proverbs 15:5 (The Message)
 
Let’s face it; nobody enjoys being corrected. Recently I was “reprimanded” in front of a group of ministry peers, and my reaction was worse than the correction. How embarrassing! Then came the whole apology thing. Looking back I wish I had the restraint to hear the correction and say, “Hmm. Thank you for pointing that out. I’ll give my actions some thought, and seek to do better next time.” If you ever hear me respond that well to correction, then go ahead and say “goodbye” ‘cause I must be headed to see Jesus! 
 
Responding well to reprimands does not come naturally. Our pride is on the line. We feel compelled to justify our actions, and explain our positions. Why are we surprised when our children don’t respond well either? Most likely they haven’t seen too many stellar examples to follow! Let’s consider a few ideas that may help you parent toward children who are marked by “good sense.” 

1. Endure your child’s wrath – Anticipate that your child will not react well, and may in fact pitch a wall-eyed fit. This takes on different forms for teens than for tots, but your reaction must remain constant – endure their wrath. Stand firm in your conviction. Every time you back down in the face of their negative response, you increase the likelihood they will respond poorly every time thereafter. 
2. Let your anger pass – Correction done in anger only provokes a response in kind. Walk away if necessary – long enough for you to address the issue without the anger. How we correct may be just as key to a respectful response as the actual words that we say. 
3. Explain the “Why” – Running into the street warrants a stern and protective word. Play out correctives at various ages, and push yourself to articulate the reason behind the rule – the “why” factor. Even if he or she doesn’t respond well in the moment, you will demonstrate love in your reasons.
4. Teach toward respect – I’m convinced that a “yes sir” response is learned, not inbred. A general respect for authority rests at the heart of those who welcome correction. We all need others to help us see our behavior accurately. Try asking your kids, “How am I doing as a Mother/Father?” Then model a proper response to their insights. When you discipline, your son or daughter will know what it looks like to welcome correction. According to our Proverb, it makes – and leads to – good sense.