Top 3 Parenting Must Do's


Renee's 2011 Family photo shoot
Photo credits: Delana Brooks
Roslyn and I are both mothers.  Between the two of us we have four beautiful children.  One thing we know for sure, parenting is the most rewarding privilege but it doesn't come without challenges.  Holding your baby in your arms while they are infants and toddlers provides security not only for the baby, but also for us as parents.  While they are young we have complete control over their little lives.  We select their foods, plan their play dates and choose their friends.  We have a big part in determining who they will be in relationship with.  Once they start to mature into their tween and teen years, they begin to establish their own bonds with youngsters their age.  We only have a short window of time to be influential regarding their relationships

As parents, we are the greatest influence in our children's lives.  Good or bad.

It is important for us to maximize the time we have to inspire our kids to make respectable choices regarding their friendships.  The Bible has several scriptures that discuss the dangers of bad people connections.

Proverbs 13:20 (MSG)

"Become wise by walking with the wise; hang out with fools and watch your life fall to pieces."

Proverbs 27:17 (NLV)

Iron is made sharp with iron, and one man is made sharp by a friend.

From early on in our children's lives, we must be intentional regarding their relationships.  It is vital for their success.  A friend relationship implies that there is an attachment.  One of love and concern.  It's hard not to imitate those we love.  Whether their actions are positive or negative.  Here are 3 parenting must do's:

  • Encourage and nurture your child's relationship with Jesus Christ.
    • Pray with them
    • Read scriptures with them on a daily basis
    • Attend church with them on a regular basis. 
Deuteronomy 6:5 (MSG)

Love God, your God, with your whole heart: love him with all that’s in you, love him with all you’ve got!

  • Be deliberate with the adult relationships for your children.
    • If they're not talking to you, they're talking with someone.  Strategically placing adults in your child's life with similar morals and values will prove very beneficial. 
    • Become a small group or youth leader in your church and build strong relationships with other adult leaders who will be a great influence on your children.
    • Find mentors in your family or community (coworkers, aunts, uncles, neighbors, community leaders)
  • Allow your children to participate in community service events.
    • "Something powerful happens when you partner with other influences who desire to instill a sense of mission into the hearts of your children." (Excerpt from Parenting Beyond Your Capacity by Reggie Joiner and Carey Nieuwhof)

Luke 12:48b (NIV)

From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. (Posted by Renee)







Comments

  1. What an important reminder of our parental responsibilities. It is indeed a privilege to be a parent. Influencing, fostering and modeling Godly relationships is tantamount. Great post.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Hope! It's a big responsibility but well worth the sacrifice.

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