Roadblocks

by Kelly Knowlden

Life has its bumps and roadblocks. For students who are learning about life, they are also learning how to handle those setbacks as they come. One of the things that I have noticed is that increasingly students do not know how to deal effectively with the disappointments that come to them. Often they emote: “It’s too hard.” “My fingers are tired.” “I think this is a stupid assignment.” Rarely do they immediately think, “How do I solve this?” Parents don’t help by taking part in their child’s hurts. This results in discouragement and giving up.

Here is an example of how the process could go: Problems come. Students emote. At this point, they need to hear that being sinned against does not always demand justice; that losing their book demands that they find it; that forgotten homework means doing it over if it is due that day; that being late is inconsiderate of others; that teachers have the right to run a class in the way that they see best. Ultimately, children and young people need to see the sowing and reaping principle that God has established in the world. Rules not kept, deadlines unmet, angry responses bring consequences. The same is true on the positive side of things. Rules kept bring blessing. Deadlines met bring not only the accolades of a good reputation, but also the commending to bigger and better things. This is the way the world works. Learning to heed this early on, informs them that they may not give in to whatever they feel at the moment.

Perhaps it is all tied to “Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge...” [Proverbs 12:1]. The discipline of doing what ought to be done, whether or not “I feel like it” is a necessary ingredient of becoming a productive member of society. It is the path to becoming wise. It is essential for life. As parents, we get to help our children and young people be students who are living out of that reality of self-discipline that is motivated intrinsically by a love and desire to serve God. Let us press on.