READ:   Jeremiah 29:11

THINK:  I am sure many of us wish this series would go on for the balance of the year, because of any responsibility in life that we have to bear, the role of a parent is easily one of the most difficult and challenging.  We enter it with great naiveté, and progress through it with woulda…, coulda…, and shoulda….  That’s where help comes in! 

God does not remain silent on the topic of children.  He shares our joy and heartache as well.  He provides specific instruction in many cases as Ben articulated over the weekend in his message.  While many portions of scripture do not overtly point towards the raising of children, they certainly can be foundational in helping us, and that will be the focus of today’s devotional.  Three verses have been foundational in my life and they most clearly apply to the role of a parent:

Trust:  “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding;
In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

As Ben would say…would you underline “and lean not on your own understanding”.  How often do we encounter a situation or circumstance with our children that we are completely at a loss for how to handle properly?  It is at those times that God is calling out to each and every one of us that he is available to us, to help us navigate the Class V rapids of parenthood.

Truth and Mercy and Love: "Show me your ways, O LORD, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Remember, O LORD, your great mercy and love, for they are from of old. Remember not the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways; according to your love remember me, for you are good, O LORD." (Psalm 25:4-7)

Oh where to start!   Such key ingredients for a parent.  Knowing the truth, having mercy, and providing love.  Knowing the truth and instilling that in our children starts with letting God be our teacher.  His mercy and love is an example for all us with our children.  He showed us mercy and love when we deserved neither.  Our children need to see the source of truth, mercy and love…don’t hide these from them but let them shine brightly before them.

Courage: "The LORD is my light and my salvation- whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life- of whom shall I be afraid?" (Psalm 27:1)

Whether just starting or rounding the corner to grandparenthood courage is essential in parenting. We need to trust Him who created our children.  We need to trust the plans he has for them (Jeremiah 29:11).  

I have a friend who is an inspiration to many of us.  He is a grandparent at this stage in life.  He is so wise and so faithful. His children have not always made choices he would desire, but never has he given up hope, or stopped loving them unconditionally.  He has displayed unbelievable courage in the midst of rebellion.  I am thankful that God has provided this example to me, and I am hopeful that you are surrounded by individuals that will inspire you as a parent as well.

DO:  Seek God’s help as a parent. You will need it!! That is not a reflection on your parenting skills but an acknowledgement of the enormity of the task. 

PRAY:  Heavenly Father you are beside me and with me in my role as parent.  I thank you for your love, grace, and truth and wisdom.  Help me to be wise as a parent and rely upon your understanding.   Thank you for your grace and mercy.  In Jesus name I pray. Amen.