parenting lessons from King David's mistakes

Now his father, King David, had never disciplined him at any time, even by asking, “Why are you doing that?” Adonijah had been born next after Absalom, and he was very handsome. 1 Kings 1:6  (New Living Translation)

I found this verse interesting.  We know that King David was a great warrior, superior leader, and legendary king!  What we do not see in David’s life is a priority on family.  Because of that, his family looked like something from 90210.  If you read on in 1 Kings, you will find that Adonijah ended up a handful for David.  As a matter of fact, David had several kids who had some major issues.  That’s for another day. 

What can we learn from this passage?

1-    What’s ignored doesn’t go away.  This goes for many areas of life.  Expect what you inspect.  

2-    Children NEED discipline.  Psychologists from many fields of study are showing that children WANT discipline.  They need boundaries.  There is obviously a line here but ignoring poor behavior doesn’t work either.  Children need to be raised and not just be allowed to grow up.

3-    Don’t be afraid to ask questions.  I’m very seldom concerned about the issues that people/ my kids can talk about, it’s the one’s that they won’t talk about that are usually points of concern.

4-    Looks mean nothing.  A child may “look” the part of the wholesome perfect child but looks can be deceiving.  There is where knowing your child is important.