The biblical approach to changing behavior is diametrically opposed to the humanistic view. This is a major problem that I find with almost all “Christian lifestyle books”, including child training manuals, and Christian parent education and counseling that is leading Christians away from truth. Because I was trained in psychiatry and bathed in that worldview, I am able to quickly discern it's presence anywhere, including under the guise of Christian teaching.
The problem with B.F. Skinner and his modern-day followers in the field of psychology is their faulty worldview that says that humans are just like animals only more highly “evolved”. Therefore, Skinner’s studies (performed on animals) that have become the basis for modern psychology, are thought to be appropriately applied to humans. Unfortunately, these ideas have not only permeated but dominated the Christian church and these teachings were unquestioningly accepted by me as a new Christian. Now, as a believer in the Reformed faith and God’s constant Sovereignty in all things, I find myself re-thinking many ideas that I before easily accepted.
Now, as a Bible-believing, Reformed Christian, I know that God created humans to be different from animals (Genesis 1:27) and I know that outward changes in behavior can not lead to changed hearts. I also know that my Lord Jesus Christ was very concerned with people’s heart conditions during his earthly ministry. He often warned his fellow Jews not to depend on outward behaviors that looked good or holy to save them or gain the approval of His Heavenly Father. (Matthew 23:27, 7:23) God forbid if I unwittingly encourage outward behaviors in our children that look good at the expense of waiting on the Lord to change their hearts. (Luke 17:2)
Lord, may I relentlessly seek your face and your wisdom as I endeavor to raise my children for you and for your kingdom. Amen.
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