Being a parent is a responsibility and a blessing. It definitely is not always easy, but the rewards are awesome. What role do parents play in raising Christian kids?
There is no doubt that raising a family is a hard job. There are good days and there are days that you just want to get through in one piece. Some say raising infants is hard, while others say teenagers are the biggest challenge. Whatever the case, this job was given to you by God and you have not only the responsibility of raising well-mannered kids who will thrive in their adult lives, but also to mentor them in their Christian lives. It sounds like a lot, but you know it is all worth it.
Parents are the biggest role model that children have. They watch you like hawks and gather all sorts of information from how you react to your spouse, other adults, other children, and in every kind of situation. You must do your best to be a good example. "Do as I say, not as I do," is a popular saying that parents use on their kids all the time. Throw it out! It just doesn't mean a thing to your child when they are watching you many hours of the day. They are still going to mimic your actions.
Take an inventory of the things you do and say. Are they things that you want your child doing now or when they are older? For example, what do you watch on TV? Is it something you do not want your child watching? If it is, perhaps it is also something God does not want any of his children watching. How do you treat your neighbor compared to your minister or pastor? Are you gossiping, thinking that you are not hurting anyone? Your child may be listening, too. Take a good look at some things you may need to change to be a better example.
Thoughtful prayer is necessary in every area of your life, and especially when it comes to raising children. God has billions of children, so do you think He knows a thing or two about how to raise yours? Let Him know your concerns, your successes, and get HIs advice. Use the Bible to answer some tough parenting questions. Don't go it alone when you don't have to.
Mom and dad should show each other affection while the children are around. A hug or a quick kiss on the cheek will show your children that the two most important people in their lives are united, which makes them feel protected and safe. They will also come to know that is how a healthy relationship between a man and a woman should be, especially when they start dating and see how others respond to them. Hopefully, they will be able to identify a good relationship from a bad one.
The father is the prime example in the family unit. How a child perceives his earthly father is likely how he will see God. Fathers are thought of as strong and protective. Do you provide for your family? God pays attention to his children and loves them unconditionally. Is this how you feel about your child? A father is also to love his wife as Jesus loves the church. Does child see you loving your wife this way? Being a father is a wonderful blessing!
Love, laughter, discipline, and togetherness create a strong family unit. With work from everyone in the family, there is harmony and happiness. Parents who work together ~ stay together. Families that pray together ~ stay together.
