Parenting is a journey filled with incredible joy, but it's also a path that can challenge us in ways we never imagined. In the midst of tantrums, teenage angst, and the daily grind of raising little humans, how do we keep our hearts centered? How do we love our children with the kind of unconditional, patient, and unwavering love that truly reflects Christ?
Jesus' love is the ultimate example. He loved us not because we deserved it, but because of who He is. That's the kind of love we should strive to emulate as parents. It's a love that sees beyond the surface, forgives freely, and seeks the best for our children.
Loving as Jesus Loved:
What does this look like in practice?
Unconditional Love: Just as Jesus loves us despite our flaws, we must love our children regardless of their mistakes. This doesn't mean condoning bad behavior, but it does mean separating the child from their actions.
Romans 5:8: "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."
Patient Grace: Parenting requires immense patience. Jesus showed us endless grace, and we must extend that same grace to our children as they learn and grow.
1 Corinthians 13:4-8: "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails."
Servant Heart: Jesus came to serve, not to be served. We can model this by putting our children's needs before our own, not in a way that enables them to be spoiled, but in a way that shows them they are valued.
Mark 10:45: "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Intentional Connection: Jesus spent time with those He loved. We need to be present and intentional in our interactions with our children, building strong bonds through quality time. Jesus INTENTIONALLY gave his life for us.
John 10:17-18: "For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father.”
Forgiveness: Jesus is quick to forgive, and we should be too. Teaching our children the power of forgiveness starts with us modeling it.
1 John 1:9:"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."
3 Books That Have Helped Me Understand and Love My Kids Better:
Over the years, certain books have significantly impacted my parenting journey, helping me better understand my children and love them more deeply. Here are my top three recommendations:
Raising Emotionally Strong Boys by Davis Thomas and Sissy Goff:
This book really helped me understand the different emotional developmental stages in my boys (and girls too really) and the importance of meeting their emotional needs. It taught me that understanding the why behind their behavior is key to loving them effectively.
Raising Worry Free Girls by Sissy Goff:
This book focused on the importance of creating a safe and nurturing environment for my daughter while also instiling .bravery and strength in her! It helped me learn how to communicate more effectively and build stronger connections with my daughter and my sons as well.
The Yes Brain by Daniel Siegel and Tina Bryson:
This book taught me a lot about gently guiding my kids pout of their comfort zone while also building a safe space for them to come back to. It help me build skills to raise them to be more resiliant and open and empathetic.
Conclusion:
Loving our children as Jesus loved us is a lifelong journey. It's a journey that requires us to be intentional, patient, and filled with grace. By seeking God's guidance and utilizing resources like the books mentioned above, we can cultivate a heart of love that reflects the heart of Christ.
Call to Action:
What are some ways you strive to love your children like Jesus? Anser this in a journal and pray it back to God.
What books have helped you in your parenting journey? Share your recommendations in the comments below!
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