Patient parenting

Parenting is a major lesson in patient endurance.  It’s not a sprint race. Your children will grow up whether you like it or not. We have often joked with our kids saying that we would like to bonsai them or put a brick on their head. They laugh at our jokes, but the reality is that they grow before our very eyes.

You are not a part-time mom or dad. 24/7/365 is what you are given as you shape a life. Being a parent means that you learn to love in creative ways. Love never gives up and love is intentional. Love is not sporadic or random but it’s like the most nutritious food you could give your children. It feeds their soul and brings health to their bodies. 

Become the best study of your child. Have you noticed what makes your children come alive; what makes them smile and jump for joy? When you see that sparkle light up in their eyes, take note. Then, love them in a way that reaches their heart.  

Be patient as you love them and as you discipline them. Few things test your patience like a crying baby or a dawdling teenager. In those moments, remember love. Love is kind, love cares more for others than for self. Teach your children God’s way of love regularly. 

Make sure that you are intentional about the time you spend with them. We have noticed over time that our son comes alive when we spend one-on-one time with him and our 15 year-old daughter loves deep chats with her dad about her future.  

How can you be intentional today in reaching your child’s heart.  What do you need to do to love them in the way that they feel it?