Hey there,
Welcome to today’s post! I’m super excited to be writing to you about something that’s close to my heart — the challenges of intentional Godly parenting.
Whether you’re just starting on this journey or you’ve been on it for a while, I’m sure you’ll agree that raising Godly children in today’s world comes with its own unique set of challenges. But don’t worry, I’m here to walk you through these challenges and share some practical tips to overcome them. So, let’s dive in!
1. Time: The Biggest Challenge in Godly Parenting
Time — it’s something we all wish we had more of! Between work, family, social commitments, and everything else, finding time to raise children intentionally can feel like a huge task. As parents, we juggle multiple roles: we are not just moms or dads, but also spouses, employees, and friends. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget about what really matters. But here’s the thing: what we prioritize will always get done.Just like we always find time to eat, sleep, and bathe, we must place raising our children in a Godly manner at the top of our list. This isn’t something that can be pushed aside. It’s essential for our children’s survival and spiritual well-being.
Tip to Overcome: Start by shifting your priorities. The more you recognize how important it is to raise children in the faith, the more you’ll make space for it. Don’t wait for a 2-hour block of time — maximize small moments. For example, during your morning school run, you can pray with your kids or have a conversation about faith. Even in the kitchen, you can sneak in discussions about God’s love.
Remember: Even the smallest moments can make a huge difference!
2. Stress and Exhaustion: The Reality of Parenting
Let’s talk about another challenge — stress and exhaustion. There are days when you feel like you’re running on empty, juggling so many responsibilities, and just feeling worn out. I get it! Parenting, especially intentional Godly parenting, can be physically and emotionally draining.But here’s the thing: Don’t beat yourself up when you don’t have the energy to do it all. It’s okay to be tired. The key is to give yourself grace and take breaks when you need them.
Tip to Overcome: If you’re feeling burnt out, re-evaluate your schedule. Maybe it’s time to adjust family devotion times or re-schedule certain tasks that leave you exhausted. Also, don’t forget to take care of yourself spiritually and physically. A tired parent can’t pour into their children effectively.
3. The Digital Age and Screen Time: Navigating Technology
One of the biggest challenges today is how technology has evolved. When we were growing up, there weren’t social media platforms, screens, or constant digital distractions. Today, parents face the challenge of keeping their children grounded in Godly principles while navigating the digital world.Social media, screen time, and the exposure to various agendas (such as those about sexuality and identity) are just a few examples of the challenges we face today.
Tip to Overcome: Technology isn’t all bad if used intentionally. Be in control of your children’s screen time and set clear boundaries. You can use tools like educational YouTube channels, Bible apps, and online Christian resources to supplement their faith journey. Teach your children to use technology wisely and always stay proactive about their exposure.
4. Society’s Culture vs. Kingdom Culture
It’s no secret that the culture around us is shifting. Today’s children are exposed to ideas and values that might differ from what we want them to embrace. These values, like certain agendas around sexuality and identity, are often pushed onto children through various mediums. How do we, as intentional parents, respond to this?
Tip to Overcome: The best way to combat this is by engraining your family values and God’s truth in your children from an early age. Teach them who they are in Christ and instill in them a strong identity that’s rooted in the Word. Don’t wait until your kids are exposed to outside influences. Be proactive and lead them in the way they should go.
5. Nurturing Your Own Relationship with God
This last challenge is often overlooked, but it’s critical. As parents, we are models to our children. They’re watching us and learning how to walk with God by observing our actions. But if we don’t have time for our own personal relationship with God, how can we teach them to have one?
Tip to Overcome: You must be intentional about carving out time for your relationship with the Lord. Schedule time for prayer, Bible study, and worship. Whether it’s early mornings or late evenings, find a consistent time to reconnect with God. This will not only nourish your spirit but also serve as an example for your children.
Prayer: The Power of Intercession for Your Children
Finally, let’s not forget about the power of prayer. There are so many things we can’t control in our children’s lives, but we can always pray. Praying for your children’s hearts, friendships, and spiritual growth is one of the most powerful tools we have as parents.
Tip to Overcome: Start by praying specifically for your children. Pray for their relationships, their protection from harmful influences, and their growth in Christ. Prayer is a game-changer in overcoming challenges that come with raising Godly children.
Check out my book “365 days of praying the scriptures for your children” here or here
Conclusion: The Journey of Intentional Godly Parenting
Parenting is not a walk in the park, and intentional Godly parenting can feel overwhelming at times. But with prioritization, grace, and intentionality, we can overcome these challenges. Remember that small moments matter, setting boundaries is essential, and prayer is powerful.So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed today, take a deep breath, realign your priorities, and trust that you are equipped for this journey. God is with you, and He will guide you every step of the way.