Parenting Shapes the Future

The Power and Privilege of Parenting

Even a daily reminder is not enough–I need an hourly one, to remember that I’m not parenting just to survive the day or to create the most comfort for myself. I am parenting for the future, for my grandchildren–waging war against the one, masquerading as light, who wants to destroy my children.

That sober realization is the fastest way to be a better parent.

It’s so hard to remember when we simply want peace and quiet, or when frankly, we’re tired of parenting for the day, or just have a million other things pressing.

But when I grasp what really happens day to day, the power of parenting and the privilege to impart to my children what they need to grow into strong, wise adults who love the Lord, or when I grasp that I can choose to neglect that privilege, it shakes me to my core.

Imparting Values for the Future

We are here for a short time, and what we impart to the next generation is all that will be left of us. It will be the greatest or the most tragic thing we do with our lives.

Responding to Misbehavior and Shaping Character

When my 3 year old is sneaking into the pantry for more snacks when I’ve told him not to, it matters how I react. Because it’s not just about him right now, or the snacks. And certainly it’s not about my inconvenience. He’s becoming a man. I’m teaching him how to parent his own child. What will he learn?

Embracing Selflessness and Living like Christ

I recently gathered my children around and apologized to them for the many times I’ve parented out of frustration or selfishness. I’m sure I’ll apologize more along the way. But each day, I’m striving to bring my sins before the Lord, ask Him to fill me with His love and patience, and help me be a mother who lives selflessly, who imitates Christ more and more, who empties myself into them, because I want my children to be that kind of parent to my grandchildren.

They will learn from how we live, not so  much what we say.

Parenting as a Joyful Responsibility, Not a Burden

Parenting is glorious. Don’t buy the lie that children are just minions to endure until they grow up. They are your greatest earthly treasure to nurture, teach and point to the Father. They are the best investments you can make. It’s hard work but it’s good work. Be faithful.