You're not the boss of me

I have a child who is constantly rankled by the fact that her parents get to “boss her around," and that this bossing is not a two-way street.

Why doesn’t she get to boss us around? 

This is completely unfair! 

In questions of children, parents, and parents’ authority, it’s never a matter of who is more important –children and parents are equally important– it is always a matter of responsibility. 

Parents are responsible for their children.

Children are not responsible for their parents. 

When parents exercise our authority appropriately, with kindness, respect, and understanding (help me, Jesus!), we are teaching our kids how to appropriately exercise authority over themselves, and anyone else they will need to lead. 

Real authority and responsibility are inextricable from each other. 

Real maturity comes when we understand this relationship. 

Funnily enough, the authority given to those with the role and responsibility of “parent” is really just a tool—given for the purpose of cultivating, in a safe and loving environment, growth, wisdom, and freedom in the children we care for. 

"For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority." Colossians 2:9-10 

"But seek His kingdom, and these things will be added to you. Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom." Luke 12:31-32