I love the question “why.” I’ve mentioned before that I don’t have a problem saying “because I said so” particularly if my children are stalling for obedience. I’ve told them to “obey first, and then ask why” and often they take me up on the offer.
Today it dawned on me that David’s “Why” in response to a request or command is probably more habit than rebellion (I may speak too soon!). Several times I’ve asked him to say instead “Yes, ma’am.” I think I may just work on making that response habitual.
Both children seem to be going through a stage where they seem to have forgotten that obedience is not an option. We’ve had a number of weepy episodes. I’ve been struggling with some doubt “Maybe I’ve been really inconsistent and that’s why they’re doing this. Maybe I’ve been too distracted lately” (that may be true!) I guess I need to not worry about what is in the past and work on the here and now. And be reminded that first, I cannot be the perfect mom, cannot be perfectly consistent, and I desperately need God’s grace in my life and the life of my family if we are going to grow in grace and the knowledge of him. End sermon to self.