Living Free - Aug. 4, 2014
Today's Scripture
"You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus." - (2 Timothy 3:15 NLT)
Today's Thought
So you have a new baby. You will quickly realize your infant is completely dependent on you to meet his or her needs. Feeding needs, diaper needs, comfort needs, needs for love, security, and cuddling. These needs can appear overwhelming until you recognize once again and confess that this child is in God's hands. He will put no responsibility on you that He does not enable you to meet.
The keys to parenting at this age are vigilance and consistency.
Consider this …
Your new baby's chief way of communicating with you is through crying. Crying means simply that your little one needs to have a specific need met. The need may be for feeding, a diaper change, relief from pain, or simply love and security. Within the first three months you will most likely learn to distinguish your baby's different cries. Be attentive to the needs! As babies learn that their needs will be met, most of them become less and less demanding. It is not good to let a baby cry for prolonged periods. We do not spoil infants if we pick them up, love them, and meet their needs when they cry.
Your best means of communicating with your baby is by voice and touch. Babies need to feel their parents' touch, arms, and security. Talk and sing to your little one. Your baby needs to learn and become comfortable with the sound of your voice. Avoid loud tones and arguing in your child's presence.
In today's scripture, the apostle Paul pointed out to Timothy that being taught the holy Scriptures from childhood had given him the wisdom to receive salvation through Christ Jesus. You cannot start too soon reading Scripture to your infant. Consistently combine that with regular prayer for him or her to receive Jesus at an early age and walk with Him throughout life.
Prayer
Father, thank you for this great blessing you have brought into my life. My baby. Help me to be a godly parent. Teach me to meet his (her) needs wisely and to constantly communicate my love--and yours--to him (her). 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.
PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
© Living Free 2007. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending e-mail to info@LivingFree.org.
