Parenting the heart of our children

The gift of parenting goes beyond trying to figure it out all on our own, there is a greater gift within parenting that God has given us as a tool to be a parent.

Being a Mama: A Sacred Blessing

There are so many ways to describe what it’s like to be a parent, but one sentiment rings true for every mama who has embraced this incredible calling: “I didn’t know I could love so deeply until you.” Motherhood truly is one of the greatest rewards God has given us.

“Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.”
(Psalm 127:3)

Parenting is a journey of constant learning, and as mamas, we often find ourselves turning to God for guidance on how to raise our children. They may have similar traits, personalities, or quirks as us, but each child is uniquely designed by their Creator. While we are their parents, we are not their Maker.

The Instruction Manual We All Wish We Had

Raising children can sometimes feel like assembling a piece of Ikea furniture without the instructions—frustrating and overwhelming. Imagine staring at a pile of screws and wood, unsure where to begin. What’s the first thing you’d do? Call the manufacturer, of course!

In the same way, when we encounter challenges with our children—whether it’s a public meltdown or a season of disobedience—we often wish they came with an instruction manual. But here’s the good news: we have access to the One who designed them.

Hearing from God in the Chaos

I’ll never forget one of my son’s early meltdowns when he was just two years old. My husband gently held him, spoke softly, and soothed him in a way that calmed him almost instantly. I was amazed and asked, “How did you know to do that?” His response? “God told me.”

I picture God in that moment, watching over our family, gently placing His hand on my husband’s shoulder, and whispering wisdom into his heart about how to reach our son. What better parenting advice could we ask for than insight from the Creator of our child?

Parenting the Heart

God intricately designed each of our children in the womb. He knows their hearts, their strengths, and their struggles. Only He can mold them into who they’re called to be. Parenting isn’t a task we can fully master on our own—it requires constant partnership with God.

“Train up a child in the way he should go [and in keeping with his individual gift or bent], and when he is old he will not depart from it.”
(Proverbs 22:6 AMP)

To truly train our children, we need to nurture their hearts, not just correct their actions. This requires surrendering our own hurts, frustrations, and even ambitions, and instead asking God to guide us in raising them according to His purpose.

Surrendering Ourselves First

As moms, we can’t pour from an empty cup. If we don’t first surrender ourselves to the Lord each day, we end up giving our families a version of ourselves that isn’t God’s best. Starting our day with Him equips us to parent with wisdom, patience, and love that flows from His heart rather than our own strength.

I’ll admit, I don’t always get this right. But I pray that I will seek God in every parenting decision, moment of frustration, or joyful milestone. My goal isn’t just to guide my children’s actions but to shape their hearts for the Lord.

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Final Encouragement

Parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about surrender. When we lean into God and invite Him into our role as mothers, we allow His grace to fill the gaps in our efforts.

I hope this reminder encourages you, Mama. Let’s lean into God, trust His wisdom, and walk in His grace as we raise these precious gifts He’s entrusted to us.

Blessings,
Pamela