This week, last session of this series, your student will be learning how rules bring about freedom. But the reality of this life guarantees that your student will still seek freedom outside the rules from time to time. (We all do). And when they do this, they are likely to fail to meet your expectations or end up in a situation with serious consequences. These are usually the most heart breaking, infuriating moments for you as parent because you can see what they should have done. In fact, you may have even told them what to do beforehand. So how do you respond when your student has made a poor decision?
As difficult as it may seem, your first response should always be love. After a mistake or a deliberate rebellion has been made, and the consequences are staring you in the face, it is too late to change the past. Your student probably already feels ashamed, guilty or afraid. This is why the best thing you can do is to love them with your words, your body language and your actions.
Once your student knows you love them, then you will have a safe environment to help them move forward. They will face consequences of their actions, but there are some ways you can help them learn from their decisions. Avoid negative remarks about their past behavior (i.e. “you always . . .”). Instead, try to make positive suggestions, like “maybe we could . . .” or “have you ever thought about . . . ”. By phrasing your comments as suggestions rather than commands, you will minimize your students resistance and maximize your influence.
Press On,
Shelby Craig
Student Minister
