Oh Baby: 14 Devotions for New Parentsنموونە

You Are the Best Parent for Your Child

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. EPHESIANS 2:10 NIV

Social media is quick to tell us that we just don't compare to other parents. By the look of people's kids and puppies, everyone else's lives are nearly perfect. As we scroll along, enviously noting their sunny vacations, intimate together times, masterfully plated meals, constantly clean clothes, and well-behaved siblings, we glance up at the dish-covered sink and crumb-covered counter. We notice that the baby left a vomit stain on one shoulder and we forgot to change our shirt before the video call we had for work.

The truth is, that people rarely memorialize their less-than-perfect times on their social pages. And in much the same way, the world rarely sees the insecurities and worries we face every time we lay our head on the pillow at night. We judge others by their neatly trimmed outer lives, and we judge ourselves by our messy, disorganized, emotional insides. That, friend, is not apples to apples.

But the greater truth? You. Are. Enough. There is no better parent for your child than you. No one’s education would enable them to raise your child with more beneficial expertise. No one’s hug would feel better to your child than yours. No one’s broccoli cuts or buttered noodles would taste better to your child—not really. Because you were created for this family, for this time, with this child.

Sure, everyone can learn and grow. There may be books worth reading and experts worth following. There are friends or family members worth observing in their strengths as parents. But what your child needs most is the vessel through which all of that love was made to be channeled—you.

Don’t let anyone ever tell you that parenting isn’t a ministry or a purpose. You were designed to pour into your kids for God’s glory. He prepared you for this family, and He prepared this family for you. Your child will thrive as you share yourself—your whole, imperfect, beautiful self.

Prayer:

God, I believe You have made me just the right parent for my child. I acknowledge that I have many shortcomings and that I need You every day in order to do this. But in my weakness, You are strong. And I’m willing to do this together with You!