Grace Based Discipline: How to Be at Your Best When Your Kids Are at Their Worst

by Karis Kimmel Murray

Faith—a deep conviction or belief that results in the submission of our intellect, will, and actions to God. Regardless of circumstances, trusting that God is good and that we need Him. Integrity—who you are when no one is looking. Stopping at the red light in the middle of the night, even when there are no other cars on the road and no one is coming from either direction in the intersection. Telling the truth, even when it comes at a high personal cost to you. Poise—a keen sense of the appropriate. An intuitive wisdom that weighs the needs and best interest of the moment against the backdrop of truth and integrity. Self-Discipline—being willing to do the hard but right things. Putting momentary pleasures and conveniences at a distant second to doing what needs to be done. Never sacrificing the permanent on the altar of the immediate. Endurance—seeing commitments through till the end, especially when you want to quit. Keeping your word. Completing what you start. Crossing the finish line even if you are so beaten and battered that you must rely on the shoulder of a comrade to help you across. Courage—being willing to sacrifice your personal safety to defend the defenseless. Confronting that which makes you afraid with the truth that God is who He says He is, and He can do what He says He can do. Recognizing that fear is a legitimate emotion, but not necessarily the best indicator of what we should do. Fear can inform our response but must never dictate our reaction.