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Wise Words for Moms Review by Dena Wood
By: Ginger PlowmanShepherd Press
PO Box 24
Wapwallopen, PA 18660
1-800-338-1445
http://www.shepherdpress.com/
Wise Words for Moms is a chart designed to aid moms as they address and correct sinful behavior in their children. This chart was written by Ginger Plowman, author of "Don't Make Me Count to Three!" A Mom's Look At Heart-Oriented Discipline and is based on the ideas and principles expressed in that book.
Four pages of sinful behaviors are listed including everything from stirring up strife, bragging, complaining, and giving up to whining, worry and revenge. Next to each "problem" is a space for Heart Probing, Reproof (Put Off), Encouragement (Put On), and Additional Verses.
Under Heart Probing we are given questions to help our child examine the motive behind their behavior and determine the "heart issue". For example, under Defiant Attitude we are prompted to ask, "Are you obeying or disobeying with your attitude?" "Are you truly obeying when you obey with and unhappy heart?"
Reproof lists some verses to share with our children. In this case, "It is wicked for you to harden your face and foolish for you to despise instruction." Pr. 21:29. Encouragement lists verses showing what we should do. "A wise heart accepts command and a happy heart makes the face cheerful." Pr. 10:8. Additional verses are then listed.
This chart is a great resource for those who have read "Don't Make Me Count to Three!" and desire a quick reference guide. I think it would greatly help those moms who might feel they are not "spiritually mature" enough or don't have enough Biblical knowledge to parent their children using Scripture. This is a quick and easy starting point.
The chart introduction states repeatedly, however, that it should serve merely as a tool and not a substitute for personal search and study regarding training our children. I don't think Wise Words would be nearly as effective for those who have not previously read the book and, therefore, don't have an understanding of the concepts and approaches it teaches. Don't shortchange yourself by simply buying the chart and not reading the book. I am quite sure that the Wise Words chart is something that I will refer to often, possibly even adding my own notes, questions and ideas as I go. It is a great helping-hand to anyone wanting to teach their children by reaching their hearts rather than simply correcting their behavior.
