Our teenager has done something wrong—they told us off, or disrespected us in some other way. Or maybe they disobeyed a family rule because it wasn’t convenient for them. Now they want to do something—go to the fair, a movie with a friend—and they want to borrow the car when they go. What should we do? Let me tell you what I did. I said, “If you think for one minute that I’m going to let you do anything after the way you treated me, you’re in for a huge surprise.” Then, of course, we’re faced with the challenge of their anger, frustration, and sadness when they couldn’t do what they were planning. Don’t get angry. Don’t get loud. But stand firm and let reality discipline set in. It’ll speak louder than you ever could.

Suggested Reading: Hebrews 12:5-6