Setting a Godly Example for Children

Since becoming a mother for the third time it really has changed my perspective on how I parent.

A few days ago it really hit me. I am COMPLETELY responsible for the type of adults my children will become. I am helping form their daily habits, good and bad. I set the standards and examples for what is ok and what is not ok for them.

So, what are my actions teaching them? We all know actions are louder than words.

I want my children to burn for God. Pray even when times aren't going so good and not just when things are going great.

I want them to know that God is ALWAYS there for them and will always provide. Just like when we go to sit on a chair, we never doubt that the chair isn't going break.We are taught that the chair will always hold us. We never question it. I want that to be the way that my kids think of God. That they will NEVER doubt Him. That He will always hold us up even when we want to sit down and quit.

When I think about my actions, it makes me think of how much am I really praying with them and in front of them? What am I speaking to them? What am I speaking over them and how much do I pray for them?

Our words can be so powerful. Speak positively to them and correct them in a loving way. Lift them up, give them compliments and build their self esteem.

Let's look at some scripture about training our children in God's word and ways.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.

Deuteronomy 6:6-9 And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.

Ephesians 6:4 Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

 

Proverbs 13:24 Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.

 

Proverbs 29:17 Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will give delight to your heart.

 

Psalm 127:3-5 Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.

I encourage you to really take a look at the examples you are setting for your kids. I know there a quite a few changes I want to make. I will be trying harder to pray with them more. It is so easy to become busy with life and mommy duties. By the time we get home, make dinner and get the kids ready for bed we can be exhausted! Let us be reminded that it is SO worth it to take a few extra minutes out of your day, sit down with them and pray with them.

Remember we are the ones setting Godly examples for them and God has chosen us as their parents to do so.