Cheers to Parenting

Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people.

─ Philippians 2:14-15 NLT

Raising your children takes constant work. Even before they’re born, you begin to sacrifice and build a life for them. When you constantly push forward, cooking, cleaning, providing and instructing, the moments in the rough places can wear on you. It’s easy to complain and argue, especially when they’re teens, and even lose your cool.

Philippians 2:14-15 is an encouragement to all parents. From the diapers and sleepless nights to the trying teen years, your children are watching you. You are the example before them. Let your life shine bright with confidence and encouragement. Similarly, Ephesians 4:15, speaking the truth in love, cheers you on to use those positive but honest words of love and affirmation, truth and exhortation, that will compel them to choose to become followers of Christ.

Parents, when you feel like you’re losing the battle, and you want to respond negatively, remember God is your helper. He’s equipped you to be the parent He’s created you to be. And when your strength is gone, pause and say a quick prayer, expecting in faith for God to teach you how to be the parent your child needs in that moment.

Today’s One Thing

Begin each day this week with a prayer for yourself, your child and the relationship you have with them. Ask God to equip you to be the parent your child needs, trusting Him for the answers and responses your child needs to become who God’s called them to be.

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