As we face parenting difficulties, may we remember to give grace to ourselves. Parenting after all, is one of the biggest challenges for humans. There is no school or academic course for it. Even the
brightest people fail in it.
If we think about it, even the most disciplined and learned get to sire black sheeps. Teachers, doctors, nurses, and even those who are supposed to have the necessary skills to become a competent parent,
still get it wrong. Those who dedicate their lives full-time to it, to the extent of sacrificing their careers, also end up broken-hearted with prodigals.
Freedom to choose
Just like us, God gave our children the free will to do things their way. They have the liberty to make good or bad choices. As parents, we have to help them discern what is right from wrong. And the best way
is by bringing them up in the Lord.
“Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6
When we teach them God’s ways, and they see us trying our best to follow Jesus, our kids are more likely to live God-honoring lives. While godly parenting does not automatically result in having good
children, it will at least give them the best foundation they could ever have. A standard they can live up to so that they would not end up ruining their lives. Instead, they could live a meaningful and God-honoring existence.
“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” Deuteronomy 6:6-7
His grace is enough
And when we feel like our best is still not enough, may we trust that God’s sufficient grace will carry us through. May we bring our anxieties and parenting burdens by His feet and trust that He will sustain us. That He will strengthen us in whatever parenting season we are in. May we hold on to His promises that He will be there for us, and our children.
“All your children will be taught by the Lord, and great will be their peace.” Isaiah 54:13
Thank you for reading our devotional today. Kindly read Deuteronomy 6:1-2 for a deeper dive on today’s topic.
Reflection Question: Are you too hard on yourself whenever you think of your parenting failures? What steps will you take today to give yourself more grace as you try to navigate the parenting challenges
that you are facing. What mothering burdens would you like to place before God’s feet for Him to take care of?
Conversation with the Lord: Heavenly Father, thank you that you are my Beautiful Savior. Thank you that you are assuring me that you have sufficient grace to sustain me in every season of parenting I will be
in. Grant me the confidence to continue holding on to you and your promises as I try my best to raise my children in Your love and teachings. Amen.