My thoughts on Blue Like Jazz

I have to admit that I did not finish the book, but I feel like I read enough to get a good impression. There is no doubt that Donald Miller is a great writer, and I enjoyed reading the book. I was challenged to think about a lot of things, and I would have no problem recommending the book. However, I think Miller's book can potentially be more harmful than helpful. I am afraid that he gives too much validity to his strange and unique spiritual journey. Young, impressionable minds might get some bad ideas about how to develop their own faith. Like many writers today, Miller is all about "shock value." In his attempt to be clever and original, I think he loses credibility.

Scott

Thoughts: Teach Them Diligently

I'm part-way through Teach Them Diligently by Lou Priolo. The basic premise of this book is that Scripture, having all things necessary for training in godliness, is the best (and only truly effective) way to train up your children. When disciplining (training) or even enacting consequences for bad behavior, it is best to communicate why a behavior is expected. For that reasoning to be true and legitimate, you must not correct a behavior based on convenience or cultural norms, but rather with Scripture. Let me give you a primitive example:

Mama: Caleb, let's go get ready for bed.

Caleb: But I don't want to go to bed.

Mama: I know you don't want to, but the Bible says "Children, obey your parents in the Lord." God has given me and your Daddy the job to take care of you. That means putting you to bed when it's time. We love God, and we will obey Him and do our job. God has given you the job to obey your parents. You can show God you love Him by obeying us. Time for bed.

Caleb: But I don't want to.

Mama: The Bible also says "Do everything without complaining or arguing." When you say 'I don't want to,' you're arguing. Let's go. (puts him into bed) Let's pray and thank God for our day.

Now, obviously, I am still reading through the book, and of course, each parenting situation is different, but I'm already really affected by the truth found in this book. I would highly recommend this to any current and future parents. (grandparents too!)

Current Picks 8.10.06

lori is reading...

by Lou Priolo

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scott is reading...

by Steve Farrar

Please leave your book suggestions by clicking the comments link below!