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The New Yorker called it "The Fifty-Nine-Story Crisis." In June of 1978, a college student called renowned structural engineer William LeMessurier to say a massive skyscraper he designed wasn't sound. His building, the Citigroup Center, was the world's seventh-tallest at the time. At first, he blew it off, but upon inspection, he realized that someone switched the welded joints to cheaper bolts during construction. It was such a small change, but it would've spelled disaster in a strong wind. And Midtown Manhattan isn't the only place where a lack of structural integrity can bring down the house. As we lay the foundation for our children, how do we stay true to God's original design for the home, giving their lives the stability they need?
The Big Idea
Integrity reinforces our kids' structural support system. It's not enough to keep the big promises — you've got to keep the little ones too. Jesus reminds us that "one who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much" (Luke 16:10). Every time you make good on a promise, it's like you're using God's original — trustworthy — building material. But if you start to break your word, it won't take long before their trust in you comes tumbling down.
Whatever we say, we do. We're trustworthy and reliable — a good quality to have as a parent and in all other relationships. As James said, "let your 'yes' be yes and your 'no' be no" (James 5:12). Developing integrity isn't always fun or convenient, but through repetition and followthrough we strengthen our kid's trust in us.
Set clear boundaries and expectations ahead of time so they know the consequences before they act. No waffling or excuses, we view discipline as an act of love — just like God does! "My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord … For the Lord disciplines the one he loves …" (Heb. 12:5-6).
The Big Question
Do your kids see you as someone who always keeps your commitments?
