Parenting God’s Wayናሙና

Courage Under Conviction

As you commit yourself to the honest study of God’s Word, one thing you can expect to receive is the conviction of the Holy Spirit. 

None of us comes blameless to Scripture. Indeed, “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Rom. 3:23) and are in need of grace and forgiveness through Christ. However, receiving redemption through His atoning blood doesn’t free us from the requirement of walking in righteousness. Quite the opposite is true. Upon receiving salvation, every Christian is called to “put to death the deeds of [his or her] sinful nature” (Rom. 8:13, NLT). While we have the power of God’s Spirit within to strengthen us against temptation, the flesh (our sinful nature) is always seeking to reassert itself in our lives. This is why we’re exhorted to be vigilant against falling back into sinful behavior. Prayer, faithful reading of Scripture, and reliance on the power of the Holy Spirit will keep us on the right path, but conviction is a natural and necessary part of the process. As you look into the mirror of Scripture, rejoice when you feel this conviction, because it’s God’s means of sanctifying you. When a particular passage brings discomfort to your conscience, don’t look away or resist. Instead, be encouraged that your eyes have been opened to an opportunity to become more like Christ and, in turn, to become a better parent and role model for your children. Confess and repent of any shortcomings, and ask God to help you improve in those areas.

Parenting can be a very humbling experience. Like any great challenge, it’ll bring to light your areas of weakness, stretch you to your limits, and drive you to your knees. However, the right response will bring strength to your weak areas, expand your limits, and cause your reliance on God to grow. Let His grace carry you through your trials. God promises that submission to His training will yield “the peaceful fruit of righteousness” (Heb. 12:11). 

Stay positive, be thankful for His forgiveness and always look to the blessings that follow obedience. Trust in God’s guidance and His commitment to your growth in Christ and joyfully receive His correction. He will be faithful to keep you in perfect peace as you grow in wisdom—a priceless gift for any parent.