Consistency is Key

Consistency

Being consistent is a pretty important quality to have in all areas of life. Look at Romans 2:7: “He will give eternal life to those who keep on doing good, seeking after the glory and honor and immortality that God offers” (NLT). Notice how it says “who keep on”? God honors people who don’t give up and who continue to do what they’re supposed to.

Our relationships with our parents are like a bank. Every action is either a deposit into the bank of trust or a withdrawal from the bank of trust. Trying hard in school, completing chores, being present at family events … these are all actions that could be considered deposits. The opposite action of these could be considered withdrawals.

If you have a rough relationship with your parents and are having a hard time getting them to trust you, perhaps it’s because you’re not consistent. It’s awesome that you came home by curfew time last night, but if you weren’t on time several instances before that it’s easy to see why they don’t feel they can trust you when you’ve shown them you’re more interested in making withdrawals than deposits.

I’m not saying that being consistently good and responsible will earn you a pass from doing the dishes, taking out the trash, or doing your own laundry if those are chores your parents have given you. Your parents are busy people, especially if they both work. In order for everything to get done around the house and for them to still be emotionally stable there’s no reason why their able-bodied child can’t help out. I’m just saying that things could be a lot more difficult for you if your parents sensed a rebellious spirit or a lack of personal responsibility.

Want to see how consistent you are? Take this quiz!

1. You come home at or before curfew.
A. Regularly B. Sometimes C. Never

2. You do your chores and/or homework.
A. Regularly B. Sometimes C. Never

3. You are present and on time for activities you know are important to your parents.
A. Regularly B. Sometimes C. Never

4. You tell your parents the truth.
A. Regularly B. Sometimes C. Never

5. You obey your parents.
A. Regularly B. Sometimes C. Never

Results
Mostly As: You are consistently showing your parents that you are responsible and trustworthy. You are building an excellent foundation in your relationship with your parents.

Mostly Bs: Your parents have reason to hesitate with trusting you, but it’s not too late! Step it up and show them how dependable you are.

Mostly Cs: Start fresh. Sit down with your parents and let them in on your new plan to be consistent. Apologize for the past and move on.

In your journal, write a prayer asking God to help you be consistent. What does being consistent look like in your life?