Does your family have a list of rules? For the last few years, we had borrowed our family rules from the book Our 24 Family Ways (2010). I’ve realized that 24 was too many for our family so I changed our rules to a simple list of eight. Hanging on our bulletin board in the kitchen is the list of our family rules. It’s right next to the table we eat our meals at, making it convenient to review often. Since children do not enter this world knowing how God desires us to live, it’s our responsibility as parents to lovingly guide and teach them about the Path to Life. One practical way to do this is by having a list of rules and expectations for the family to follow. Children benefit from structure and from clear expectations. Having a list of rules hanging where everyone can see them can aid in their learning the rules, remembering them and understanding the expectations we have for them.

If you don’t already have family rules in your home, consider having a family meeting to discuss implementing a list of rules. A family meeting is also a great time to discuss the consequences for breaking the rules. Older children can help in coming up with the rules and consequences. When I did family therapy, I often helped families write down a list of rules in one column and in the column next to the rules were the list of consequences. For example, in our house, when my oldest says an inappropriate word he has a bible verse he has to write out.

I want for my children to not only know our rules but also understand the biblical reasoning behind them. When we review our rules we also read the supporting scriptures. Below is our list of family rules. Feel free to use them yourself and add additional rules that are particular to your family.

1. With our whole heart, we love, honor, trust, obey and serve our Lord Jesus Christ. Passages to read: Exodus 20:3-11, Luke 10:27 and John 14:15
2. We listen, respect and obey our parents and those God has placed in authority over us. Passages to read and discuss include: Exodus 20:12, Ephesians 6:1, Colossians 3:20 and Proverbs 4:10-13.
3. We only use words that build one another up. Passages to read include: 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Proverbs 15:1 and Ephesians 4:29.
4. We treat and respond to each other with kindness and respect. Passages to read include: 1 Corinthians 13, Ephesians 4:32 and 1 Thessalonians 5:15.
5. We put others first, looking for ways to help and serve. Passages to read include: Mark 9:35, Philippians 2:3-11 and Galatians 5:13-14.
6. We tell the truth at all times. Passages to read include: Proverbs 12:22, John 8:44 and Proverbs 12:19.
7. We take care of our belongings and the things God has given us. Passages to read include: James 1:17, Haggai 2:8, 1 Chronicles 29:10-14.
8. We are content with what we have, having a heart of gratitude rather than a grumbling, complaining heart. Passages to read include: 1 Timothy 6:6,8 and Hebrews 13:5.

Next week: discussion questions, crafts and activities to do to reinforce family rules.

Does your family have a list of rules for your children? I’d love to hear about it. Add a link to your post in the comments.