When Parents Say No

Hebrews 12:5-11

“Is your dad going to let you go to Gina’s all-night party?” asked Leslie as she and her friend Irina walked home from the park.

“No,” said Irina. “He didn’t really say why not . . . just that he didn’t want me to go.”

“My parents said no at first too,” replied Leslie, “but I told them how unfair that was and that they never trust me! They gave in and said I could go. Why don’t you tell your dad how unfair he’s being? Maybe he’ll change his mind too!”

Irina shook her head. “You know, Leslie, I really trust my dad,” she said. “I guess since my mom left, I’ve realized how hard he’s trying to make the right decisions for me. I know he has to say no sometimes because he thinks that’s what’s best for me.”

Leslie frowned. “Oh, that’s what my parents always say! But I don’t believe it. I think it’s mean to boss kids around.”

By now the girls were on the sidewalk across from Leslie’s house, and they turned to cross the street. Leslie’s dog, Lady, came running out to meet them. “Stop, Lady! NO!” Leslie yelled. Lady stopped right away. “Good dog!” Leslie praised when she reached her pet.

“You’re sure mean to Lady!” said Irina. “She just wanted to come meet you.”

“Mean?” asked Leslie in surprise. “I’m not mean. If I just let her run across the street, she might get hurt.”

“So saying no was really for her good?” asked Irina with a smile.

“Of course it . . .” Leslie stopped. “Okay, okay. I see your point,” she said. “Parents sometimes have to say no too.”

How about You?

Do you get angry or upset when your parents say no? God has given them the responsibility of making decisions regarding your well-being. Even though you may not understand their reasons, trust them.

Memorize:

“No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it is painful! But afterward there will be a quiet harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.” Hebrews 12:11