"The Truth about Parenting" | March 23, 2025 | Ps Joel Lowery

Parenting is often described as one of life's most rewarding experiences, but it's also one of the most challenging. As we embark on this sacred journey, we quickly realize that raising children requires more than just providing food, shelter, and basic necessities. It demands our heart, soul, and unwavering commitment to nurturing not just their physical needs, but their spiritual growth as well.

The path of parenting is paved with hard work, leadership, and an abundance of God's grace. Let's explore these essential elements and how they shape our role as parents in guiding the next generation.

Hard Work: The Foundation of Parenting

From the moment our children enter the world, we're thrust into a role that demands more of us than we ever imagined. The sleepless nights, the constant worry, and the financial strain are just the beginning. As Jim Gaffigan humorously puts it, "Raising kids may be a thankless job with ridiculous hours, but hey, at least the pay sucks."

But beyond the challenges lies an incredible opportunity. Our children are not just responsibilities; they are our greatest legacy. As Andy Stanley wisely notes, "The purpose of your life might not be something you do, but someone you raise." This perspective shift can help us embrace the difficulties with a renewed sense of purpose.

The Psalms remind us that "Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him." When we view our children through this lens, it becomes easier to pour ourselves into the hard work of parenting, knowing that we're investing in something truly precious.

Leadership: Guiding with Purpose

As parents, we're called to be leaders, not followers. It's our responsibility to set the course for our family, to create structure, and to instill values that will shape our children's lives. This leadership role requires us to be intentional about the routines we establish, the faith we model, and the family time we prioritize.

Ephesians 6:4 instructs us to "bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord." This involves more than just taking our children to church on Sundays. It's about creating a home environment where faith is lived out daily, where conversations about God are natural and frequent, and where our actions align with our beliefs.

Leading our children also means creating healthy routines that provide structure and safety. Children thrive when they know what to expect, and consistent routines can help reduce stress and create a sense of security. Whether it's family dinners, bedtime rituals, or weekly devotionals, these routines become the framework upon which our children build their lives.

Deuteronomy 6:6-9 emphasizes the importance of consistently sharing God's commands with our children: "Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you're at home and when you're on the road, when you're going to bed and when you're getting up." This repetition and integration of faith into daily life is crucial for nurturing genuine spiritual growth.

Enjoying Family Time: Creating Lasting Memories

In our fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the busyness of life and neglect quality time with our families. However, research shows that the average father spends only seven minutes a day of undivided attention with his children. This statistic is a sobering reminder of the need to be intentional about creating meaningful family experiences.

Life is measured in moments, not minutes. The memories we create with our children will far outlast any material possessions we might provide. Investing in experiences rather than things can yield rich dividends in terms of family bonding and shared joy.

Psalm 39:6 reminds us that "We are merely moving shadows, and all our busy rushing ends in nothing." This perspective can help us prioritize what truly matters – the relationships we nurture and the legacy we leave behind.

God's Grace: The Ultimate Parenting Resource

Even as we strive to be the best parents we can be, we must remember that ultimately, our children's lives are in God's hands. Psalm 127:1 tells us, "Unless the Lord builds a house, the work of the builders is wasted." This truth can be both humbling and liberating.

We can do everything "right" as parents and still feel overwhelmed by the weight of responsibility. It's in these moments that we must lean into God's grace. Romans 8:1-2 assures us, "There is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death."

This amazing grace is available to all parents, whether we're in the thick of raising young children, dealing with prodigal adult children, or longing for children we haven't yet been blessed with. God's grace covers our mistakes, heals our wounds, and empowers us to persevere in this sacred calling of parenting.

Embracing the Journey

Parenting is not for the faint of heart. It requires hard work, intentional leadership, and a willingness to create meaningful family experiences. But above all, it requires a humble reliance on God's grace and guidance.

As we navigate this journey, let's remember that we're not alone. God is with us every step of the way, offering wisdom, strength, and boundless love. He sees our efforts, understands our struggles, and delights in our successes.

Whether you're changing diapers, navigating the teen years, or praying for adult children, know that your role as a parent is invaluable. You're shaping the future, one day at a time. So take heart, stay the course, and lean into God's grace. The impact of your faithful parenting will echo through generations to come.

May we approach each day with renewed commitment, knowing that as we pour ourselves into our children, we're participating in a sacred work that has eternal significance. Let's embrace the challenges, celebrate the joys, and trust God with the outcomes. After all, parenting isn't just about raising children; it's about growing alongside them in faith, love, and grace.