Sometimes being a mom to two teens can feel just a tad bit overwhelming. There are so many questions, and countless decisions that require split second wisdom and wading through the grey areas of life. I usually feel completely inadequate to handle all that comes my way.
But amidst the countless parenting approaches, there is one thing God always brings me back to; the gospel.
I know, I know…how Sunday School cliché of me. But honestly, sometimes it is the only thing that makes sense.
When my girls are walking in fear of what others think, the gospel. Because Christ died for them, they are hidden in Him. Their identity lies there, not in the opinions of others.
When my girls cop an attitude, the gospel. Because Christ died for them to walk in freedom from their sin. He’s begun growing the fruits of the spirit in their hearts.
When my girls have been hurt, the gospel. Because Christ has torn the veil that was once between God the Father and sinful man. We can go to him freely with our hurting heart.
When my girls are feeling left out, the gospel. Because they are included in Christ before the Father. He has made them peacemakers. They can reach out to be an includer.
When my girls are confused by the darkness around them, the gospel. Because Christ came to bring light to the darkness and to save a fallen and broken world. They are part of that light. They are part of that salvation.
When my girls are homesick, the gospel. Because of Christ, this home is only temporary. They are now citizens of what is to come.
When my girls are confused, the gospel. Because the mind of Christ is given to all those who are found in Him. In Him is wisdom. He has promised us wisdom in abundance, whenever we ask for it.
When my girls are stressed, the gospel. Because in the sovereign hands of God, we can peacefully rest as His children.
When I am at a loss, feeling like I am not enough, or when I’ve totally lost it in front of my girls, the gospel. Because I am in desperate need of the sanctifying work of God in my life.
The gospel is not just another tool in my parenting toolbox. The gospel is the toolbox in which all of my other tools are found.
3 Comments
Ugh, so simple, yet I’m convicted of how often I miss it - miss the opportunity, in their struggle, to point their hearts straight back to Him. Thank you for this foundational truth. It’s exactly the reminder I needed as I take on this day!
What a great reminder ! Thanks for sharing. I have passed this post along to several mommy friends. One thing that many in my moms group have been struggling with our the issues of preschool age children - and even at the young age every issue can truly be brought back to the Gospel!
Yes!!! The gospel is our only hope for parenting…for life in general! Thank you for this reminder!!