The Foolish Joy of Mocking

Contents

1.Tools for Parenting Teens
2.Learn Their Lingo
3.Links to Learn From
4.A Little Encouragement...And Humor


1. Tools for Parenting Teens
From http://www.realworldparents.com/starters/

The Foolish Joy of Mocking

See these verses from Psalms and Proverbs to understand a little more about the Bible’s perspective on “mocking.” As you read, remember that “mocking” in Scripture means more than just teasing or mimicking others. Mocking is a habit of regularly putting down people and ideas, including God and the things of God.


Many students fall into the habit of mocking as a way for covering up their own insecurity. Afraid of looking stupid, some will mock others before they can become the victim. Eventually, the habit can become a lifestyle.
•Psalm 1:1
•Proverbs 1:20, 22
•Proverbs 9:8
•Proverbs 15:12
•Proverbs 9:12
•Proverbs 21:24

Talking Points

•Do you know people who seem to put others down all the time? Are they funny? Are they well liked?

•What would you say is the difference between occasional teasing for fun-and regularly putting people down (even if it’s really funny)?

•What does the word “mocking” mean to you?

•Is it wrong to make fun of people or ideas (if it’s more than just kidding around)? Can kidding around in a mocking way sometimes hurt someone’s feelings?

•Have you ever thought of mocking or even really good put-downs as a kind of pride? How is mocking the opposite of being humble?

•Do you know people who seem to be able to get everyone in arguments with each other? Is it easier when that person isn’t around?

•Do you think mocking others is wise or foolish?

•How can we work at not making a habit out of mocking?

Daily Prayer

Ask God to help your child to grow wise in exercising self-control. (See Proverbs 25:28)

Featured Resource: Boundaries with Teens


In this exciting new book, Dr. Townsend gives important keys for establishing healthy boundaries—the bedrock of good relationships, maturity, safety, and growth for teens and the adults in their lives. The book offers help in raising your teens to take responsibility for their actions, attitudes, and emotions.
http://www.realworldparents.com/store/item/boundaries_with_teens/


2. Learn Their Lingo

GMAS = Acronym for give me a second.

Caraoke = Singing along with music in a car, especially loudly and passionately.

4. Links to Learn From

140 Characters of Parenting Insight [YS Blog]
http://www.youthspecialties.com/blog/2009/140-characters-of-parenting-insight-2/
Teen Sex Escalation [The Source for Youth Ministry]
http://www.thesource4ym.com/youthculturewindow/article.asp?id=96

While Adolescents May Reason As Well As Adults, Their Emotional Maturity Lags…[Science Daily]
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/10/091007153745.htm

5. A Little Encouragement...And Humor

Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body.