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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Give Them Grace summary
Elyse M. Fitzpatrick
Jessica Thompson
Brief summary
Give Them Grace by Elyse M. Fitzpatrick and Jessica Thompson is a deeply insightful book that offers a gospel-centered approach to parenting. It emphasizes the importance of grace and points parents and children to the saving power of Jesus Christ.
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Table of Contents
Give Them Grace
Summary of key ideas
Understanding the Concept of Grace in Parenting
In Give Them Grace, Elyse M. Fitzpatrick and Jessica Thompson explore the concept of grace in the context of parenting. They argue that many parents, consciously or unconsciously, raise their children under a system of law, where good behavior is rewarded and bad behavior is punished. This approach, they contend, is not only ineffective but also contrary to the message of the gospel.
The authors begin by emphasizing the importance of understanding and embracing God's grace in our own lives. They argue that unless we, as parents, fully comprehend the depth of God's grace towards us, we will be unable to extend the same grace to our children. They stress that grace is not just a one-time event but a continuous process of receiving God's love and forgiveness, and it should be the foundation of our parenting.
The Role of Law and Grace in Parenting
Fitzpatrick and Thompson then delve into the relationship between law and grace in parenting. They explain that while the law has a role in showing us our need for grace, it is grace that ultimately transforms us. Similarly, they argue that while rules and boundaries are necessary in parenting, they should be used to point our children to their need for God's grace, rather than as a means to earn our approval or favor.
The authors caution against using fear, guilt, or shame as motivators for good behavior in our children, as these are rooted in a legalistic mindset. Instead, they advocate for a grace-based approach, where we emphasize God's unconditional love and acceptance of our children, regardless of their behavior.
Practical Application of Grace in Parenting
Having established the theological foundation of grace in parenting, Fitzpatrick and Thompson then provide practical guidance on how to apply this concept in our daily interactions with our children. They stress the importance of gospel-centered parenting, where we consistently point our children to their need for Jesus and His grace.
They also discuss the role of discipline within a grace-based framework, emphasizing that discipline should be motivated by love and aimed at restoring the relationship rather than simply punishing the behavior. They encourage parents to model humility and repentance, showing their children what it looks like to live in light of God's grace.
Conclusion: Embracing Grace-Filled Parenting
In conclusion, Give Them Grace presents a compelling case for embracing a grace-filled approach to parenting. The authors argue that when our children understand and experience God's grace through our parenting, they are more likely to develop a genuine, lasting faith. They also stress that grace does not mean permissiveness, but rather a different motivation for obedience – one rooted in love and gratitude rather than fear or self-interest.
Overall, Give Them Grace challenges parents to reevaluate their parenting paradigms and shift from a legalistic, performance-based approach to one that is centered on God's grace. It offers a refreshing perspective on parenting that is both biblically grounded and practically relevant, making it a valuable resource for parents seeking to raise their children in the light of the gospel.
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What is Give Them Grace about?
Give Them Grace by Elyse M. Fitzpatrick and Jessica Thompson offers a refreshing perspective on parenting. It emphasizes the importance of extending grace to our children, just as God extends grace to us. Through practical advice and biblical wisdom, the book guides parents in raising children who understand and embrace the gospel.
Give Them Grace Review
Give Them Grace (2011) offers a fresh perspective on parenting, focusing on the importance of the Gospel in raising children. This book is definitely worth reading because:
- It challenges traditional parenting approaches, instead emphasizing God's grace as the foundation for effective and loving discipline.
- By examining common pitfalls and providing practical guidance, it empowers parents to build strong, authentic relationships with their children rooted in grace.
- The book's biblical foundation and relatable anecdotes make it an engaging and enlightening read, ensuring that it is far from boring.
Who should read Give Them Grace?
- Parents who want to lead their children with love and grace
- Individuals looking for a balanced approach to Christian parenting
- Caregivers who want to understand the importance of gospel-centered parenting
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Book summaries like Give Them Grace
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Give Them Grace FAQs
What is the main message of Give Them Grace?
The main message of Give Them Grace is discovering the power of grace-centered parenting.
How long does it take to read Give Them Grace?
The reading time for Give Them Grace varies, but it typically takes several hours. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Give Them Grace a good book? Is it worth reading?
Give Them Grace is a valuable read for parents. It provides practical insights and guidance on raising children with grace and love.
Who is the author of Give Them Grace?
The authors of Give Them Grace are Elyse M. Fitzpatrick and Jessica Thompson.
What to read after Give Them Grace?
If you're wondering what to read next after Give Them Grace, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- How Children Succeed by Paul Tough
- Becoming Attached by Robert Karen
- All Joy and No Fun by Jennifer Senior
- The Opposite of Spoiled by Ron Lieber
- Minimalist Parenting by Christine Koh and Asha Dornfest
- Moms Mean Business by Erin Baebler and Lara Galloway
- Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother by Amy Chua
- Screamfree Parenting by Hal Edward Runkel
- Getting to 50/50 by Sharon Meers and Joanna Strober
- The Drama of the Gifted Child by Alice Miller