Parenting In His Image

I'm sure you too have had days when you’ve wondered what in the world you’re doing as a mom? Take heart! God goes straight to the heart of the matter and packed these verses with clear communication to us parents. Even so, I’ve had days when I felt a bit overwhelmed by it all. That’s when I found comfort in these verses.

She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:“Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.”

Proverbs 31:27-29

I hope the faithfulness, energy, and vigor of the Proverbs 31 woman inspires you too. The Lord knows the value of the work He has given us and what it takes mentally and physically to accomplish it. And believe me, if you are a parent, he has given you a valuable work indeed. He has also given you one more gift – His creativity.

Do you know you’re created in the image of God? I want it to sink into your heart and mind that you are a creative and intelligent person! You are a reflec­tion of God’s glory. You reflect Him to other people, especially to your children. Every time you reach out in love, perform a deed of kindness, and show forgive­ness, patience, and faithfulness, others experience the character of God through you.

Why not plan a special night for your family? Give everyone plenty of notice, especially if teens are involved. When the time comes around, prepare a festive meal, go out to dinner, or order pizza!

Later, gather around and have everyone share a testimony of what God has done in their life over the last few weeks. Encourage each person to share a goal or dream…and be supportive. Dreams aren’t always based on current reality. Talk about the childhood antics of the kids, how you and your husband grew up, met, and married, what your parents did, where your grandparents lived. Share your faith experiences…and let others share theirs. End your time together by drawing each other’s names out of a hat and committing to doing two nice things for that person during the week. This will strengthen your family’s bond and you will grow much closer together.

In addition, resolve to continue spending time with God on a daily basis through prayer and the study of His Word. As we die to self, we come alive in Him – in His image! Draw inspiration from God’s heart and let the Creator help you parent through the hard times and the sweet moments. Rejoice in the strength He gives for each day, and the hope He offers for every day!

RESPOND:

“Lord Creator, You are with me every step of the way in this parenting job. I am excited to share You with my child by living out Your goodness. When I need a boost, a creative idea, or an attitude adjustment, Your ever-present hope brings relief and renewal.”

RENEWING RESOURCES:

A Mom After God’s Own Heart by Elizabeth George is fresh help for you—a busy mom!—to make God an everyday part of your child's life.

REFLECT:

How does the one command to “love the lord God with all your heart” simplify the many parenting concerns that you might have?

REMEMBER:

If you are a sold-out, on-fire, hot-hearted, committed-to-God Christian, you will be infinitely further down the road to being the kind of parent who, by His grace, can raise a son or daughter after God’s own heart. Because all your love centers upon God, and because you follow Him with all your heart, you will qualify to lead your children to follow God too!