Parenting

5-2-2012 by Boyd Bailey “However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.” Ephesians 5:33 Outside of a personal faith in Christ, the best gift a parent can give their child is a healthy marriage. This secure and stable environment gives little ones a large amount of peace. A husband and wife who learn to love and respect one another create a culture of calm in their family. Why would a child want to wander from a home where acceptance is assured? A marriage marked by service to each other motivates children to do the same. We have to remind ourselves as a father and a mother that we were first a husband and a wife. Neglect of our marriage responsibilities puts additional pressure on our roles as a dad and mom. Productive parenting flows from a maturing marriage. So, effective parents wisely ask, “How am I investing in my marriage?” “Is it time to get away, before we drift away?” Parents who collaborate with Christ and one other win their child’s heart. “‘Each of you must respect your mother and father, and you must observe my Sabbaths. I am the LORD your God.” Leviticus 19:3 Has your affection for your child replaced your affection for your spouse? Yes, love for a child is different, but it is not meant to compete with your number one companion. Perhaps you pray regularly as a couple for your children to grow in Christ-like character and then pray the same for your relationship. Prayer promotes peace and creates patience. A joy filled marriage spills over happiness into your home, children, and friendships. Furthermore, your home becomes a haven of hope and trust when you model dependence on the Lord. Your child depends on you to depend on God. When you look to Christ, as a husband and wife, you see truth and grace. The Holy Spirit will lead both of you to do the right things under His leadership. And, the Lord helps you become who you need to be for each other and for your child. So, surrender your marriage to Jesus and watch Him bond you to your spouse and give you wisdom as a parent. “As a young man marries a young woman, so will your Builder marry you; as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you.” Isaiah 62:5 Prayer: Lord, how can our marriage grow into a great gift to our child? Related Readings: Proverbs 1:8; Matthew 19:10; 1 Corinthians 7:28; Philippians 4:8-9 Logan Stout