As parents, we face all kinds of issues with our children, and often wonder how to deal with the situation at hand. While there is no pat answer for many issues we face in parenting, I think there is ONE answer for all parenting issues, that works no matter what is going on with your child.
During the spring and early summer months, I have the privilege of speaking at home school conferences. One of the things that I always enjoy when I’m at the conferences is the opportunity to talk with many of the parents who attend.
At every conference I have parents come to me with questions, looking for answers to different parenting issues.
I have been a mom for 36 years now, and God has blessed my husband and I with eight children. I’d like to say that after 36 years, I finally have all the answers to the problems and struggles we face in parenting.
However, over the years I have come to realize that all kids are different, and NO ONE has all the answers except God!
Having said that, I will say that I have learned some practical tips over the years. I learned many things that worked, as well as many that didn’t! I can give simple suggestions to basic questions that people ask me, based on what the Lord has taught me over the years.
However, some of the issues that parents have recently asked me for advice about, weren’t that simple. In fact, I had to tell some of them, “Hmm. I’m not sure what to tell you in this situation.”
I always followed that statement with this ONE suggestion that will help with ANY problem you are having with your kids.
Give them LOTS of love, and affirm them. Let them know that you love them for who they are, and intentionally pursue their heart. When you have their hearts, you will then have influence with them. They will trust that you have their best interest at heart, and will be more open to your instruction.
This may sound rather simplistic, but I believe it is true. When we run into struggles with our children, we need to pray and ask God for wisdom, and ask Him to help us remember that it’s not a thing of “us against them.” It’s a spiritual battle for their heart!
If we can win their heart we have a much better chance of seeing the “issues” that we are dealing with be solved.
Do you have something going on with one of your kids, that has you wondering what in the world to do? Do you feel like you’ve tried many different things, but aren’t getting the results you want?
Make an extra effort to love and affirm them. Passionately pursue their hearts, while praying purposefully that God will work in their hearts and bring the needed changes.
If God can change the heart of a king, He can change the heart of your child! Keep loving them, and keep seeking Him for wisdom.
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