You've Still Got To Be Kidding Me

That post caused a strong reaction. Here is an important question and we will leave it at this: What do you do with Matthew 19:13-15? "One day children were brought to Jesus in the hope that he would lay hands on them and pray over them. The disciples shooed them off. But Jesus intervened: "Let the children alone, don't prevent them from coming to me. God's kingdom is made up of people like these." After laying hands on them, he left."

Dont prevent them from coming to me could not be more plain. I have teenagers so I understand the challenges you face. Honestly though having to resort to taking away youth group is not very creative. It is also possible that we choose punishments that are easy on us without considering whether they are really effective. With all the things kids are interested in these days isn't there one other punishment we can come up with?

Here is a list of other options:
1. No phone
2. No internet
3. No snacks
4. No TV
5. No going anywhere
6. Additional chores
7. Essays
8. Book reports on books you choose
9. Washing the family car everyday
10. No Music
11. Pushups/ situps/ exercise
12. Dirty projects (cleaning gutters, ovens, trash cans, etc.)
13. Early bed time
14. Early wake up time for exercise or projects
15. Community service at someone else's house

Any one or a combination of these other punishments will have a powerful effect on them without making them miss something that connects them to God and teaches them to become better children. It may take thought and a little work (which is why we don't do it) but there has to be a better way than keeping them away from youth ministry. A person who is willing can probably find a better way. Feel free to comment on some other options. If punishment from youth group is your first thought you probably aren't thinking enough.