TIP 3. CREATING AN ENVIRONMENT OF PEACE IN THE HOME
There is no doubt that as fathers, and heads of the family home, we have authority and a parenting responsibility to establish the way we want our home to run. One of the most basic and important elements required in a home, is to develop an atmosphere of peace and harmony.
Raising children is a challenge in our modern times whether our child is currently a newborn baby, a toddler or a teenager. Creating a peaceful environment within the home can help minimise conflict between siblings and be the difference between war and peace among the family members.
Unless the head of the home establishes guidelines and boundaries for behaviour and relationships within the home, modern life and stresses will quickly send the environment spiralling downward. In every home there is an environment or atmosphere, it is often sensed more than understood. I remember a certain atmosphere every time I went to visit my grandparent's home, it was an atmosphere of peace.
Many people today grow up in an atmosphere of turmoil, and have rarely experienced living in a peaceful environment. But once you get a taste of it, you will always desire it, and it is achievable for every home.
Creating a peaceful atmosphere in the home begins with establishing some basic ground rules, which need to be followed by all who live there. These ground rules cover areas such as noise levels, personal privacy, and most importantly personal relationships.
If there are unresolved issues between the members of the family, although the home might be quiet, still there will be no peace. One of the most important guidelines for family peace and unity is to deal with issues quickly and not allow them to be submerged under the radar.
Dads' Call To Action:
Be an example to all in the household by dealing with issues that arise calmly and consistently, and teach your family members to do the same. This will set the guidelines for the others to follow.
(Ephesians 4v26)
"Be angry, and do not sin": "do not let the sun go down on your wrath,"
(Proverbs 15v1)
A soft answer turns away wrath,
But a harsh word stirs up anger.
(Proverbs 17v14)
The beginning of strife is like releasing water;
Therefore stop contention before a quarrel starts.