Raise With Praise

I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.

Psalm 34:1

In July 2006, the Massachusetts Medical Society released a document entitled Raise Your Child with Praise, which included a printable tip card on how to use praise alongside discipline to raise children in a happy home. The document tells parents, “Your child needs your love and attention. Sometimes your child learns that the only—or the best—way to get your attention is to misbehave!”

Children need discipline, to be sure. The Bible even says, “Do not withhold correction from a child” (Proverbs 23:13). But a child’s tender spirit can be crushed with the constant presence of criticism and correction, and God’s Word tells us not to exasperate our children (Ephesians 6:4, NIV). There must be a balance of godly discipline and deserved praise.

As Christian parents, we need to fill our homes with praise, both toward our children and toward God. In doing this, we will create a positive environment that motivates our children toward obedience and teaches them to live a life filled with praise and thanksgiving rather than discontent or criticism.

Spare the rod and spoil the child—that is true. But, beside the rod, keep an apple to give him when he has done well.

MARTIN LUTHER