THE SCENARIO: After our Fellowship Group tonight, it was 8:35 (past the kids' bedtime). Our guests had left and Aaron was asleep in his crib. Seth was getting his jammies on upstairs. I turned around and saw Robyn lounging in the big chair reading and Nathan flopped on the couch reading.
Mom: "OK Guys, time to head for bed."
Robyn: "But I can't head to bed - I'm reading the Bible!"
Nathan: "And I can't head to bed, either - I'm reading the dictionary!"
Sure enough, they were reading those exact books....
So, how would you respond? I called Ken in and with a smile shared with him how N & R had responded. He had them snuggle next to him on the couch and said, "I'm glad you like reading the Bible. And I'm glad you like learning new things!" But, I have something to read to you. He looked up Ecclesiastes 3 and read, "There is a time for everything, a season for every purpose under heaven: a time to plant, and time to pick what is planted; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to keep, and a time to cast away, a time to keep silence, and a time to speak, a time to brush teeth, and a time to go to bed."
I believe that was read from both English Standard Version (ESV) and the KCV version......
And of course Nathan (who was listening, not reading along), said, "Hey! The Bible doesn't say to go to bed!" Smart Kid. Ken told him he was right, but even though it didn't say it, there certainly is a time for everything.
A little more encouragement, and off they went. :)
I like how Ken finds clever ways to handle situations and thought it was neat they had chosen those books to read. Sometimes with the kids I need to NOT go with my initial response and think of a different route or creative response and that would be better for all.
p.s. Dad - they love their Children's Bible Hour stories and music! Thank you!
4 comments:
That is so great! Our kids have all done the "I can't go to bed, I'm reading the Bible" thing at least once. I love how you handled it! Nathan is one smart cookie...and I love that he was reading the dictionary! I have two in my house that read dictionaries and encyclopedias for fun...Tim and Paul! :) I love reading your blog, Rhonda. It makes me laugh, smile, think, pray, cry, and remember. Keep on enjoying your family! Tracie
Rhonda, this is such a sweet story. I am right there with you on trying to be more creative rather than, "I said it's time for bed, so listen and obey Mommy!" :) Jake and I might need a written copy of your KCV in our home! :P
Thanks for your prayers, Rhonda. Praise the Lord - we are all doing great! I've enjoyed seeing your blog and your pictures, too!
Your children are very creative and cute.
Also, I'm jealous you have a pool nearby for your kids to swim in. I'm glad they love it - great exercise and entertainment for them. I'm glad you are doing well. Six more weeks till summer vacation!!
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