The Integrity of the Incredible Family
Consistency

Scripture Reading: James 5:7-11

Key Verse: James 5:12

Above all, my brothers, do not swear–not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. Let your “Yes” be yes, and your “No,” no, or you will be condemned.

The Apostle James reminded his readers that Christ followers develop a consistent lifestyle.  They carefully and prayerfully set their course and stick to it.  As James wrote it, Christ followers let their “yes” be yes and their “no” be no.  Onlookers are not supposed to see one thing in our lives one day and then the next day they see us flip flop.

            One of the most difficult aspects for integrity to develop in our homes is consistency.  It is easy as parents to feel strongly about some things one day and then pay little attention to it another day.  For kids, this becomes very confusing.  Their parents, the most significant influences in their lives, are giving mixed messages.  Enough inconsistency in parenting leads to continual arguments as the kids get older.  It doesn’t make sense to them how something can be so important on one day and you do little about it the next.  Kids will lose their will to be argumentative when the values of the home are consistently lived and enforced.

            Being consistent starts by being slow to speak.  Determine to think before you discipline.  Is what you are about to say or do really what you believe?  Emotionally driven discipline leads to a lot of inconsistent parenting.  Know your values and think through your discipline strategy.  That leads to consistency!

Father, I want people to know that I am walking with you each and every day.  Help me to consistently act and speak as your representative!  In Jesus’ name, amen.