Giving instructions can be stressful for some parents—especially those of us who are trying to be respectful and conscious in how we communicate with our kids. How can we clearly communicate what we want without being overly controlling or domineering? And how do we respond when our children don't immediately obey?

The good news is, God gives us an excellent example of how to give instructions clearly, directly, AND gently. He shows us that is possible to be straightforward and kind. He's the perfect example of teaching clearly AND respecting our agency.

So I'm laying out five principles that I see in the scripture that demonstrate how God instructs His children, and that I think we can apply in our own parenting:

1. Use positive language
2. Straightforward, not begging
3. Delivery is tailored to the child's needs and timing
4. Never hypocritical
5. Not emotionally attached to immediate results

Resources:

No Bad Kids by Janet Lansbury

Hunt, Gather, Parent by Michaeleen Doucleff

Scripture References:

Exodus 20:3–20

Matthew 5

Matthew 6