Parenting God’s Way

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:13-14)

       Parenting does not come with instructions – sometimes maybe we wish it did. But if we listen to God’s word and if we allow it to transform our hearts, it will point us in the right direction. The passage above summarizes how we should live our lives, rely on God, do the right thing, and to love those around us. It’s a great framework for parenting as well as principles we should instill in our kids.

      Stand strong in the faith. The older our kids get, the more difficult parenting gets. We won’t succeed all the time but don’t lose hope. Let’s pray over our kids and their circumstances. Trust in God’s response and know he will show us the right path.

     Act like men (women), be strong. In other words, act like an adult. As our kids get old enough to talk back, Satan tempts us to engage at their level. Don’t! Take the high road and even walk away if need be. It takes courage and strength in obedience to the Lord to do this but be confident in his power (Ephesians 6:4).

    Finally, let all that you do be done in love. Love conquers all. It’s not just a cliché. Every decision and action we take as parents should be done through the filter of love. Think of the example of the father’s love in the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32). No matter what they do, or bad decisions they make – love your kids. Love is patient and kind. Love endures all things. Love never ends (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).