Self-control

Ugly tempers on display

Drama / Role play

Video your child whining, complaining, or in a full-blown temper tantrum.

Discussion point: Review Titus 3:1-2 and discuss the importance of “doing good,” and being “peaceable and considerate.”

If you get a chance, videotape a temper tantrum. Whining, groaning and complaining are temper tantrums in disguise. If these are problems in your home, you may also want to record them, too. View the recording later and use the questions for discussion to help talk about how the tantrum or the grumbling and whining looks and sounds. Explain to your children that when they lose self-control, they will end up getting disciplined rather than getting what they wanted.

Read Titus 3:1-2. The Bible says we are to be obedient – ready to do good, to slander (speak badly of) no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to have a humble attitude. Pray, asking God to help your family members “do whatever is good” so there will be fewer outbursts of anger, and less whining and/or bickering.

Questions for discussion
  • Do you like the way this tantrum looks?
  • Do you like the way this tantrum sounds?
  • Would you like to be around someone who did this?
  • Should a child who loses self-control expect to get what they want?
Relevant Scripture

Titus 3: 1-2 “Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.”