Supporting Godly Women by Terri Porta

Real, Relevant, and Relatable. Shedding Light with God's Word, Humor and Perspective.

4 Tips On Raising Kids That Will Surprise You

on January 13, 2012

Our Computer Diagnostics Man at 2-years-old.

Ephesians 6:1; Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.

Parents are quick to point out the qualities of obedience in the child with this verse, but fail to recognise the condition set on the parents. Do you see that tiny prepositional phrase there, “in the Lord?” That is your job. If you aren’t sure how to walk with God read more here.

 Are you raising a “called out” kid?

By “called out” I mean is your kid called to greater service in the Lord? Hey, Jesus, Paul, Priscilla Aquila, and Lydia, these men and women were two-years-old once. If you were their mother or father wouldn’t you think twice about how you raised them? You have the opportunity now to begin training a leader. Fix the broken fellowship between you and God first, then teach them how. Leaders raise leaders. Every time you lead your thoughts captive you are being an example of how it’s done.

Here are 4 tips on raising kids of any age:

  1. Listen, Remember, Obey. The word for obey in Ephesians 6:1 is the Greek word hypakouō, it means to harken to a request or command, to listen. The very best thing you can do is teach this to your kids L.R.O. very young. Work with them over and over on listening to your request, remembering it and then obeying it. Make your rewards overflow with positive reinforcement. Keep in mind that if they do this with you whom they can see, it will be easier to obey God whom they can’t see.
  2. Confront it at the nearest Point of Infraction. A threat like, “Just wait until your Dad comes home,” plants fear in the heart of your child. Fear is not of God. Not only fear, but fear for someone they love and respect. Deal with it now Moms. You have the authority. A shortcut is; go to God’s court room and ask the judge (God) how to handle it. You’re the Sheriff. He’ll know just what to do. Have fun too. Trust me God loves your kid and it’ll surprise and bless you when he shows you this stuff.
  3. What is he doing?  Anytime your kid starts doing something really out of character, stop and immediately check in with God. God may be trying to get your attention on new learning, or perhaps some training in the child, or maybe he is working in him to help you. There is no such thing as Junior Holy Spirit. Don’t underestimate or overestimate a strange comment, odd behavior or just plain love. God knows when and how he is doing this verse; Phil. 2:15; For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure, in your child.
  4. Renewing the Mind   The example you set of, putting on the Word and acting accordingly even when you don’t feel like it, is big. Do you realize the edge you’re giving your child by helping them with this? During their young years, you lead them into thinking the Word about situations, people, gossip, and being an overcomer against the adversary. During their teens, the habits are there and they get bombarded by the world’s advice. Teenagers minds are designed to think about adult things, at adult levels. This is a superb time to let them test their wings. “Shawn or Susie? Can you check in and ask God how we should handle this situation?” Let them lead you. They need those kind of mental push ups, so don’t go easy. By eleven thru thirteen they are already being hit by media, peer pressure and lust. Trust me, they’ll survive a lot better having been taught how to listen to God, who is with them 24×7. They may teach you a thing or two as well. Remember Jesus telling his mother in the temple, I’m about my Father’s business. You’re goal is to see your child reach that beautiful thought process as well. God will let you know if it’s genuine. He’s always your check point. 

I hope these helped. If you have some specific questions I’d love to hear them. Have a blessed day!

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2 Responses to “4 Tips On Raising Kids That Will Surprise You”

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