Scripture commands, "do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged" (Col. 3:21). Other translations say not to, "antagonize" (NASB), "embitter" (NIV), or "aggravate your children" (NLT). Our decisions, words, and approval bear so much weight with them, and we have to carry that influence responsibly. If we aim to "bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord" (Eph. 6:4), we won't compromise on God's standards. But his compassion needs to lead us just as much as his justice. 

We all need room to fail and still find love and support. The purpose of discipline is training, not punishment, so our discipline needs to prioritize our child's growth and wellbeing. If we humiliate them, don't be surprised if they stop learning whatever we intended to teach them. 

Christ gives his disciples a challenging way to respond when we feel angry (Matt. 5:21-26) or attacked (Matt. 5:38-42). We don't get a pass on a Christlike response just because they're our kids. Parenting can get overwhelming. We're so invested in our aspirations for our kids, wanting them to have impeccable character. But if we expect perfection, we hold them to unreasonable standards we can't live up to ourselves. That's a lot of pressure! Let's aim to offer our kids the same grace, patience, and gentleness God offers to us.