Fun is a bi-product of training not a goal of training.
As we train our children in the ways of the Lord, they will mature. As they mature, our relationship will become more parallel. What often happens today is moms want to be friends with their children so they surrender their authority to the child, thinking if the child calls the shots they will be happy. Parents also assume that if the child gets what they want they will love mommy and daddy more. This is not truth. What this philosophy looks like is the child screaming in the store, trying to control mom and dad, while mommy sweetly asks, “What do you want Honey? Are you uncomfortable? Do you need a drink? Here is some candy, do you like that yum, yum?”
God’s ways work! Follow His plan of training and being the authority in your child’s life and He will give you the desires of your heart too.
In the above scenario the child is miserable. What the child is seeking is guidance and security. Being the parent and demanding godly character through clear training brings peace to a child. All of us resist being under authority, that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be under authority. As a wife I struggle submitting to my husband’s authority at times, but I also find great peace when I remain in the role God has given me.
Our children too, may buck the system but they NEED the guidelines none the less!
Fun is not evil, it is just not to be a life goal. Enjoy the fun that comes your way, while not making it the measure of success. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:6. Trust that God knows what is best for your children and focus on training them NOT entertaining them.