The Ten Commandments of Sibling Relationships
- THOU SHALT ADMIT THAT GOD PUT YOU IN YOUR FAMILY.
There are no accidents in God. If God had wanted you part of a different family, that’s what would have happened. - THOU SHALT ADMIT GOD IS SMARTER THAN YOU.
Life will sure be sweeter if you cooperate with His ways of doing things. God often uses your siblings to expose junk in your own life. - THOU SHALT REALIZE THE WORLD DOESN’T REVOLVE AROUND YOU.
Newsflash! There are other people who live in your house. Yes, you’re an important part of the family…but just part. - THOU SHALT RESPECT THEIR PRIVACY AND POSSESSIONS.
Privacy is sacred to siblings. Stay out of their room and stuff just because they’ve asked. - THOU SHALT NOT USE WORDS THAT WOUND.
Nothing stabs a sibling friendship like put downs and cruel comments. Parents should have zero tolerance on this. - THOU SHALT BE COMMITTED TO THEIR SUCCESS.
Your siblings have secret dreams about their lives. Do you care? They need you to believe in them. - THOU SHALT TREAT THEM LIKE COMPANY.
Well, not exactly. But, siblings can get way too familiar with each other. When you’re making a sandwich, offer to make them one too. - THOU SHALT CELEBRATE YOUR SIBLING’S TALENTS.
Try not to compete. Your need to be first and best shouldn’t be at the expense of others. Big people celebrate others. - THOU SHALT VERBALIZE YOUR ADMIRATION.
This takes practice, but try it: “I’m glad you’re my sister.” “Your back stroke looked great.” “I admire you,” and yes, even “I love you.” - THOU SHALT HONOR GOD BY LOVING YOUR SIBLINGS.
Here’s the bottom line. Do you love God? Make it work at home.
