Oh Baby: 14 Devotions for New ParentsSample

You are Seen

See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! I JOHN 3:1 NIV

You are a parent in your own unique way. No one parents exactly like you, and for that reason, you are uniquely suited to parent your child. You are the knower of small things, of favorites and things not-so-loved. You can empower with a word. You can heal with a hug. You can calm with a look. At times, you struggle to find power and purpose in what you do, feeling unimportant and unimpressive. It’s easy to look for affirmation that may never come from your spouse, kids, coworkers, or friends. It’s a good thing we have a God who adores and affirms parents.

We have a God who sees parenthood as a valuable calling and, in His wisdom, gifts us individually. He delights in you personally. He has paired you and prepared you, equipped you and called you, and dressed you in His finest armor to face the day with joy. You have no idea how much you influence your world.

God. Delights. In. You. Yep, you. You, who are weary. You, who are a parent to children not of your blood. You, in the office cubicle. You, who diligently serves on church committees or community groups. You, who loves being a parent. You are beloved to Him. God delights in His children. The end.

When you feel the weight of not knowing whether you make a difference … when you feel the tedium of another day of the same things … when you feel the heat of trying to do the very best you can for your family … God sees it all and reassures you: Count it all joy, child. I see you. I know you. I can’t wait for you to feel the warmth of My acceptance of you in all its fullness. In the meantime, take comfort in the peace that passes understanding. You are right where you belong—in this home, with this family, and in My heart.

Prayer:

It’s easy to lose sight of the incredible gift of Your love, Lord—especially in the mire of everyday life. The enemy tries to keep us foggy and unsure. But I know that You are right behind me, clear as day, saying, “This is the way—walk in it.” Fight for my family, Lord, as You promised.