Follow STC with Bloglovin
I’ve been given the task of writing an article on parenting…aaannnddd my daughter’s only six months old. Clearly I’m an expert, right? Not! So I thought I would just write about what I’ve learned in my parenting journey thus far. I hope that if you are already or are about to be a first time parent or you have been a parent for more years than not and just need encouragement that this article resonates with you.
If you want to enjoy parenthood, you:
1. should implement behavioral changes if you struggle with selfishness and/or laziness because ain’t nobody got time for that! Hard work results in profit, and I’m not necessarily talking about money (Proverbs 14:23)! Don’t you want the fruit of your labor to be sweet and not bitter (Psalm 128:2)? Yet I implore you to make sure to season your life with balance. It’s imperative that you take time for yourself and not get so hyper focused on being “perfect” that you lose sight of God’s grace and mercy. His grace is sufficient, and His mercies are new every single day (2 Corinthians 12:9; Lamentations 3:23).
2. should know that if you consider yourself a Queen of Routine or a Princess of Predictability, you have already been or are about to be usurped by a baby that will poop (literally) on many of your “scheduled” plans. I have had to learn to expect the unexpected and go with the flow. Hyper rigidity can prevent you from enjoying the moment and your baby! Attempt to maintain consistency in the moments that are not planned while improvising when needed. It’s important that our children learn that sometimes adjustment is necessary. How will they learn this if we don’t model it? I’m not suggesting that you let your child or children run your life; I am suggesting, however, that you employ discernment.
3. should take care not to be consumed by earthly concerns. Remember to store up your treasures in Heaven where moth and rust do not destroy (Matthew 6:20). Clearly we have to live responsibly and pay bills, cook, clean, etc. but I find that getting bogged down by unimportant, mundane matters can be a real detriment to spending time with and getting to know God intimately. This is how you gain wisdom, understanding and knowledge! Proverbs 24:3 states that “by wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures.” Strive to train your child so that he/she will not depart from what you teach him/her (Proverbs 22:6). Live your life intentionally.
4. should beware of judging other parents! Making judgments and saying things like “I would never…” is an invitation to the enemy to make you eat your words. Steer clear of this tendency. Strive for humility because God gives grace to the humble but opposes the proud (James 4:6). Also, if someone has offended you on behalf of your child, remember that God is your vindicator (Isaiah 50:8). Pride is a nasty bug and you don’t want to catch it!
I hope you have found this article helpful! Remember, I’m only six months in, so I could definitely use some advice! Thanks for reading, and have a blessed day!
How are you parenting on purpose?
Lauren
Latest posts by Lauren (see all)
- 15 Confessions of a Christian Mom - January 19, 2016
- The Case for Faith: Objection #6 - October 26, 2015
- The Case for Faith: Objection #5 - September 28, 2015
TC Avey says
Well said!
Having a kid has made me more flexible and less judgmental about others. It’s also forced me to my knees, asking God for direction. At the same time it’s one of the greatest joys I’ve ever known. It’s humbled me and made me stronger. Praise God for the gift of being a mom.
lbeauwilliams says
Thanks for **your** kind words 🙂
lbeauwilliams says
I was just thinking the other day about how in the world people get through parenting on a daily basis without Jesus!!! I have learned so much about God’s mercy these past six months! Thanks for you’re kind words 🙂
Tshanina | Thrifty T's Treasures says
Sounds like you’ve learned a lot for only being a mom of a six month old! Thanks for sharing!
lbeauwilliams says
🙂 God is gracious and merciful!
cgreensel says
Such a great post. Very well written too. I think you’ve learned a lot about parenting in such a short time. We all really have own best methods. You’re so right we can’t be lazy about parenting.
lbeauwilliams says
Thanks so much!!! Yes well I don’t want to spin my wheels so I figure I better employ some Godly wisdom stat lol
Kaylene Yoder (@FaithfulFeat) says
Either You’ve learned a lot in 6 months, were well trained as a child or you have a very good vision of your parenting goals. This is great!!! Thank you for sharing!
lbeauwilliams says
Thank you so much for your encouragement!! I think it’s a little of all 3! 🙂 Thank you for reading and taking the time to comment.
Donna Reidland says
Loved number 2 (no pun intended)! Thanks for linking up at Soul Survival.
lbeauwilliams says
Haha!! I love all things punderful.
reginapartain says
Hi Lauren. Thanks for linking up on Pintastic Pinteresting Party. This is very sound advice for all parents, but I think it is good for anyone. Sounds like you are adjusting well to having a little one in your life. Thanks again for sharing.
lbeauwilliams says
Thanks so much!!