By Laura Lee Leathers
“Through wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with precious and pleasant riches.”
Proverbs 24:3-4 (NKJV)
My toddler son, playing on the kitchen floor, became a tad bit cranky. I picked him up and placed him on my right hip, continuing to work. The moment that happened, he went into toddler talk.
I pretended to understand what he was saying. Acknowledging with an “Oh really,” or “Uh-huh.”
The next thing I knew, his chubby hands were on my cheeks, turning my head so I looked directly into his eyes as he jabbered — a valuable lesson in paying attention.
No matter where you are in your parenting or grandparenting journey, let’s look at three key responsibilities I wish I had paid more attention to; perhaps you’ll be encouraged to do the same.
Scripture
As a believer, my number one priority is to know God and make Him known. I grow in my relationship with Christ through faith by reading and studying the Scriptures. The Holy Spirit is my guide and teacher.
Believers should hide the Scriptures in their hearts, teach them diligently to their children, and talk about them throughout the day (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).
Parents should demonstrate that we can ALWAYS go to God’s Word for truth, counsel, comfort, encouragement, and so much more.
Another passage is 2 Peter 1:3 (NKJV) – “God’s divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness.” In verses 5-11, we are told how to grow fruitfully.
A wise parent models consistent reading of the Word.
Prayer
Only God has the power to transform lives, change circumstances, provide godly wisdom, and guide, enable, and equip us for whatever we face.
Write Philippians 4:5-7 and tape it to your kitchen cabinet. We are not to be anxious, but to take everything to God in prayer, with thanksgiving: “ … let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Prayers show our children that we depend on our omnipotent, omnipresent, and omniscient God for everything. Pray together using Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication (ACTS).
Character
“A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches” (Proverbs 22:1a). Our character reveals our beliefs, values, and integrity. It’s been said, “Character is what you do when nobody is watching.”
There is no doubt that children will emulate their parents. For example, I often say, “Oh my word.” What do I hear from my grandsons? The same thing. We are to walk in the Spirit, not in the flesh (Galatians 5:16-26).
Daily, find ways to meet their physical and emotional needs through work, care, and discipleship.
Parenting is the hardest job, yet most rewarding experience I’ve ever had; it just looks different now. I’m still learning to pay better attention while I trust God with the hearts of my children and grandchildren.
Laura Lee Leathers is a writer and speaker. Imagine Lois Lane, over 65, living on a farm. Her metropolis is the area of freelance writing. Her primary love interest is the Word of God. She digs for information, interviews fascinating people, offers a cup of biblical hospitali-tea, and encourages, and helps others with the how-to’s of life. Visit LauraLeeLeathers.com.
