Pandemic PregnancyНамуна

Don’t be afraid to teach your kids by leading as an example. I have worked in education and ministry, really my whole life, but professionally for the past 12 years. If there is one thing I have learned, it is that if you don’t teach your kids something, society will. Anything my parents failed to mention to me, my friends or television made sure to give me plenty of worldly perspectives on it all! Social Media, celebrity opinions—it has all gotten more extreme and abundant as the years go on. Setting a solid foundation, knowing what you want for your family unit, and sticking to the morals and guidelines you intend, is so vital! Far too often I mentor or interact with students that don’t have their own opinions on serious subject matters because they say their parents have never addressed it. The students don’t want to initiate conversation with their parents as it might be awkward or embarrassing for them. Therefore, they feel more comfortable seeing what their favorite actor or actress is posting online about it. Communication and the ability to carry on such conversations is quickly dying out amongst our conflict-driven society. I know most of you reading this devotional are probably new to motherhood or not quite there yet, but with how fast life moves by, it is never too early to think about how you will handle certain situations or what you will say to a friend coming to you for advice on topics related to their own teenagers.

Family isn't always blood-related. I have 15 nieces and nephews, yes, all blood-related, but I also have numerous cousins and siblings and other people I consider family that I have been blessed to gain over the years. In my early 20's I poured into a group of teenage girls who, in return, poured back into my family when my mother was first diagnosed with cancer. There have been so many times in my life that by simply leading, guiding, mentoring, and teaching, the blessings and lessons I received in return were more than I could have ever dreamed. Leading by example kept me accountable and gave me a sense of self-worth that aided in living a life for Christ. The lifelong impact those girls have had on my life is one of my greatest achievements. I may only have a nine-month-old right now, but the conversations I have tackled unexpectedly with people of all ages is what prompts me to think and pray about how to handle situations so that I am adequately prepared for my own children one day. I know my own teenagers will be a whole different ball game, but for now, I am grateful for the young women who let me be part of their lives.

I want to challenge you to have tough conversations. If you have teenagers, ask them what they are seeing at school or in their friend groups. Ask what questions they may have or what they need prayer for. If you don't have teenagers, ask a friend, family member, someone close to you what they are going through and how you can help. If you know a new mom, almost-mom, or trying-so-hard-to-be-a-mom (this was a struggle for my husband and me as well), ask them what they need. Find a void and fill it! Try to fill multiple voids. Get out there, love people, and lead by example so others are so compelled by your lifestyle they can't see anything other than Christ!

For more portions of the Sister Video Series, please check out: Pandemic Pregnancy Video Series