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WHY parent?

It came to me in the night that I didn't explain WHY we expect obedience, trust, respect, truth, and happy hearts from our children. WHY do we discipline? WHY do we rebuke? WHY do we interfere when they are hitting another? WHY do we comfort?

We believe that God sent up the family to show the Gospel to the world. I could talk about that for a long time, but down to parenting... We are to teach our children to obey, trust, respect, tell the truth, and have happy hearts to teach them to obey God. If my child learns at an early age that she does not have to respect authority, it will be so difficult for her to respect God. If my son learns as a toddler that my instructions are just suggestions, how will he hear God's words, the words of the almighty creator sustainer?

It's our job to teach children from the very moment they can comprehend so that they learn how to interact with our amazing Savior and gracious Father. It's our responsibility. When I tire of it (and I do!), Josh reminds me that THIS is why God made me to be a mother. Not for the joys of motherhood (although those joys are SO great!). Not for the snuggles (and those are so sweet!). Not for the easy days (those are so few at this stage in our young family). Not for the obedience (and that is so rewarding). But to TRAIN our children and usher them into a right relationship with God.

So, the children at Home of Love, likewise, need this training and this very well might be one reason that God has brought us here!

Comments

Ann said…
So true Abby! Thank you for the reminder. As you say, most days are hard, and sometimes, training our children is just so draining. It's good to be reminded of our role and our privilege.
Hope you feel better very soon!
3:40 AM
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