“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27, ESV)
Parenting can be a challenge that at times causes us to want to take a passive stance, because that’s easier. However, the answer is not passivity, the answer is good old fashioned buckling down and working at it!
Yes, parenting requires disciplined training – especially since much is at stake. Through prayer and studying God’s word we seek a deeper knowledge of Him and His ways which daily enables us to parent with His mindset. God will provide the heart for parenting if we have the discipline to seek Him while training up our children in the way they should go. Even in the difficult times we need to lean into an issue and work towards God’s desire and His best for our children and ourselves.
Father God, thank you for the gift of parenthood, for trusting me with your image bearers. Guide me daily and give me the discipline to study your word, make time for relationship with you, and actively, purposefully teach my children how their lives can be used to glorify you in word and deed. When I am weary give me strength and a disciplined commitment to my children.
“Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.” (Deut. 31:6, ESV)
I trust God will keep His promises and be true to His character. I do what is right even when no one is looking. I believe to the core of my heart and soul in God’s uncompromising love for me. These 3 proclamations take courage, a steadfast belief grounded in the truth of God’s Word brought to life through my relationship with His son Jesus.
Courage is the crux of all the Biblical virtues –
“Courage is not simply one of the virtues but the form of every virtue at the testing point.” – C.S. Lewis, The Screwtape Letters
Teaching my children to live courageously is more than just embracing head knowledge. I must first demonstrate to them on a consistent basis the core assertions with an uncompromising conviction.
• I implement courage to restrain my emotional impulses, “sigh.”
• I exercise courage to swallow my pride to act in humility, forgiveness, and honesty, “exhale.”
• I draw upon courage to tell the truth, not gossip, say no when others compromise with yes, confront addictions, and stay pure, “whew.”
• It takes courage for me to stand firm as a real follower of Jesus and humbly submit my life to God, “yes, Lord.”
As parents we must be determined to be of good courage when holding our children accountable to making courageous choices.
Written by Tracey Eyster & Edy Sutherland
