PRINCIPLES OF PARENTING
So we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.
1 Thessalonians 2:8 (NIV)
Parenting is one of the most difficult responsibilities in the world. You are responsible not only for keeping your children alive but also for educating them, teaching eternal truths and helping them understand how to make an impact in the world.
When things get complex, it's often helpful to clarify and simplify some principles to guide you in accomplishing the goals you have. While the principles in parenting I will share with you today are not exhaustive, they provide helpful support in keeping you aligned with the goal of raising godly children.
First, we should be repentant. As a human being, you will sin. Pride prevents repentance. One of the chief responsibilities that I have as a husband is to be the best at saying I'm sorry. Admitting your faults to your family goes a long way in modeling how to live as a follower of Christ.
Second, be reliable. Do your words and actions align? Do you show up when you say you will? Are you consistent in your involvement in the home? Our reliability provides a consistent example for our children to follow.
Last, be relatable. Notice I didn't say be the most hip and trendy parent. But instead, be able to relate to your children. Do you know what they're interested in? Do they know what you're interested in? Do they understand why you make the decisions that you do as a Christ follower? Being relatable is not a one-way street. You not only should make an effort to get to know your kids, but also you must allow them to know you, both your victories and your defeats.
APPLICATION: Ask the Lord in prayer, Which of these principle areas should be my priority in the next season? Write it down and put it in a visible place as a reminder to focus on this area.
PRAYER: God, thank You for allowing me the gift of parenthood. Help me find one area to grow in my life. Help me navigate how to influence others in a way that brings You glory. Amen.
"… Our Father in heaven…" Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
• What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
"… may your name be kept holy." Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
• What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
"May your Kingdom come soon." Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
• Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
"Give us today the food we need," Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
• Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I'm around today?
"and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us" Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
• Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
"And don’t let us yield to temptation…" Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
• Is there anywhere I'm vulnerable to temptation?