Parenting God’s Way

Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.

1 Corinthians 16:13–14

Parenthood doesn’t come with instructions. But if we listen to God’s word, allow it to transform our hearts and actions, it will point us in the right direction.

The passage above summarizes how we should live our lives, rely on God, do the right thing, and love those around us. It’s a framework for parenthood as well as the principles we should instill in our kids.

Be watchful.

We live in a distracted world where it’s all too easy to lose focus and drift from what’s important. The enemy sees this and will exploit it. Be intentional with your time. Stay plugged in and take an active role in your kids’ lives.

Stand firm in the faith.

The older your kids get, the more complex parenting becomes. You won’t succeed all the time but don’t lose hope. Pray over your children and their circumstances. Trust in the Lord’s response and be confident that he will show you the right path (Matthew 9:28–29).

Act like men (or women), be strong.

Better yet, act like an adult. As your kids get old enough to talk back, Satan will tempt you to engage them at their level. I encourage you, take the high road. If that means walking away, then walk away. It takes courage and strength in obedience to the Lord to do this but be confident in his power (Ephesians 6:4).

Let all that you do be done in love.

Love conquers all. It’s not a cliche. Every single decision and every action you take as a parent should be done through the filter of love. One of the best examples of a parent’s love for their child is the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11–32). No matter what they do, or bad decisions they make, love your kids. Love is patient and kind. Love endures all things. Love never ends. (1 Corinthians 13:4–7)

Are you allowing God’s word to inspire and influence how you parent?

Devotion by Mark Henderson – Founder of The Inspired Legacy

Mark is a creative professional with more than 20 years experience in the fields of web design and advertising. He also serves as the chief content officer at The Inspired Legacy, an online ministry dedicated to shining a light on God’s gift of parenthood. The organization aims to inspire and equip fathers to boldly lead their families, love their kids unconditionally, and leave a legacy of grown children that carry on these same traditions. Mark resides in Sioux Falls, South Dakota with his wife, Kimberly. Together, they have three children, two girls, and one boy.