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Humility

Humility > Creative discipline

Creative discipline

Here are some suggestions to help you develop a humble spirit in your children.

For problems with a proud attitude

Biblical basis

1 Peter 5:5b, Proverbs 11:2 and Isaiah 3:16-24.

  • To complete this creative discipline you will need a “coat of humility.” The “coat of humility” can be a burlap sack with arm and neck holes cut in it. Alternatively, it can simply be an unattractive vest, shirt or coat. The idea behind wearing sackcloth comes from Isaiah 3:24 that says, as a result of pride, instead of fine clothing there will be sackcloth to wear.
Suggested disciplinary action

When a parent notices a child being prideful, gently point out the source of the pride. Explain to your child that they will need to wear the “coat of humility” until you (the parent) sees one of the virtues listed in Colossians 3:12-14 displayed in the child’s life. During the time that they are wearing the unattractive clothing, let your child know that God detests pride even more than they hate wearing ugly clothes (Proverbs 16:5).

Colossians 3:12-14 “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against each other. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

Proverbs 16:5 “The Lord detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: they will not go unpunished.”

Affirmation

After the discipline is completed, affirm your child with Proverbs 29:23, “A man’s pride brings him low, but a man of lowly spirit gains honor.” Pray with your child, asking that God would forgive them for being proud. Ask that He would replace any pride in their hearts with humility. Continue your prayer, using Psalm 25:4-5 and 9 as a guide. “Please show _______ Your ways, Lord, teach him/her Your paths. Guide ________ in Your truth and teach him/her, for You are God our Saviour, and our hope is in You all day long. Thank you that You promise to guide the humble in what is right and to teach them Your ways.”

Psalm 25:4-5 “Show me Your ways, O Lord, teach me Your paths; guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are God my Savior, and my hope is in You all day long.”

Psalm 25:9 “He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them His way.”

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