Today's Scripture

"With all your heart you must trust the LORD and not your own judgment. Always let him lead you, and he will clear the road for you to follow." - Proverbs 3:5-6 CEV

Thoughts for Today

Getting ready for a new baby involves preparation in many areas: choosing the right doctor, eating and exercising for a healthy baby and a healthy you, planning the nursery, buying clothes--and so much more.

If you and your spouse desire to be godly parents, this is good time to examine where you are spiritually. Is Jesus the Lord of your life? Are you trusting him for guidance and help in being the kind of parent he wants you to be?

Being a parent is an awesome privilege--and responsibility--entrusted to you by God. You have been chosen to usher new life into the world, and you have been given the responsibility of guiding and directing and loving that new life into healthy and responsible adulthood.

Consider this … 

Your child is going to learn more from what you do than from what you say. Keeping your heart right with God is the most important thing you can do for your child. You won't be perfect, but even when you make mistakes you can teach your child good things by admitting your misdeed and making it right.

Pray continually for guidance and help. Pray always for your child. And give yourself permission to make mistakes! You will learn to be a parent by parenting.

Prayer

Lord, thank you for entrusting this precious life to me. I know this is a job too big for me, but I also know that with your help I can do it. Please lead me through the journey. In Jesus' name ...

These thoughts were drawn from …Godly Parenting: Parenting Skills at Each Stage of Growth by N. Elizabeth Holland, M.D. This study addresses parenting skills from the time of conception until the child has reached adulthood. It suggests methods for raising healthy, godly children in an increasingly secular society. Specific emphasis is placed on communication and teaching skills, discipline, protection and sexual issues at each age. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.