Don't Make Me Count to Three

Title: Don't Make Me Count to Three
Author: Ginger Plowman
Publisher: Shepherd Press, 2003
Pages: 151
Begun: May 27, 2009
Completed: June 1, 2009

This book is a Mom’s look at heart-oriented discipline. This is written by a mom for moms. She follows Tedd Tripp’s (who endorses her book, btw) emphasis in Shepherding a Child’s Heart and gives some practical applications for mothers with young children. This book was very helpful for me and I plan to re-read it as often as necessary in the years to come. Her focus is on using Scripture to reprove your chidren and on helping them verbalize their own sin. “When a child learns how to recognize what is in his own heart, he is more likely to demonstrate godly responses on his own.” (p. 41) Not only is it a parent’s responsibility to teach our children to recognize their sin, but we must give them a way of escape. 1 Cor. 10:13 says,” God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” She uses this verse to encourage parents (and mother’s in particular) to not only reprove your children for sin, but also to teach them and instruct them in the godly response or action they should have had. So often the instruction part is left out.

There are many things I could say about the book. It is full of examples and humor. It is an easy read and definitely well worth the read for those mothering young children. I’ll simply sum it up by listing the six parental responsibilities that she gives.

1. To use every opportunity to point children to their need for Christ.

2. To train them to obey God by honoring and obeying their parents.

3. To teach them wisdom.

4. To train them in righteousness.

5. To pray for them.

6. To be a godly example.

She does have a companion booklet, I believe, called Wise Words for Moms. I don’t have it but I think it is a collection of specific verses to use for specific attitudes/behaviors your child is demonstrating.