sibling rivalry and the Bible

I am the mommy of two little sweeties that are 22 months apart. They are very close and are basically best buddies. Except when they're tormenting each other. Or yelling at each other. Or getting a bit physical. In the past two weeks, I saw an increase in these undesired behaviors and I grew weary. So weary. Oh, did I mention frustrated? Even angry? Not good. Something had to give, and I wasn't willing to be what left.

We began a Bible study of Biblical siblings. I chose Joseph and his brothers, Miriam and Moses, and Mary and Martha. Joseph and his brothers became our touchstone text as we were able to refer to saying, "I forgive you!" and "I will share with you!" easily. We spent three days only on this story until the kids were able to repeat it at the drop of a hat. (Well, Jeb's version is somewhat fuzzy-sounding since his verbal language is not quite English.)

Now we've spent 3 days on Miriam and Moses, which has had a very powerful effect on Miss Annalise. She's really soaking in when it is important to take care of her brother and when it is just being bossy.

Tomorrow we'll start on Mary and Martha. As we have been doing, we'll just read the story several times during the day. Then, on the next day, we'll pull out particular pieces, like how Jesus told Martha not to concern herself in 'tattling' but on focusing on what is important (time with him). By Friday, we'll be ready to make our own book. The kids will illustrate and narrate and I'll write what they've dictated.

What are the benefits?

• the kids have positive role models
• the kids have specific language to use to help them with the difficult situations
• the mommy has specific instances to point to so the kids have a reference
• the mommy and the kids are less frustrated

Things are much smoother around here this week. Yes, we've had a few 'upsets', but none of the drop down, drag out scream sessions. Lots of prayer + strategy= peace (or as much peace you can have in a home with 2 children and a dog)