Psalm 127:3, "Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from Him."
Children are an amazing gift from God, never to be taken for granted. And because they are such a blessing, it's our responsibility to raise them in His light and by His instructions. When thought about from this perspective, parenting is a daunting responsibility! But don't let it overwhelm you. God has given you the tools needed to win at parenting!
Here is an acrostic to help us remember the winning strategy. It's about the K.I.D.S.:
Grounded Knowledge – Know God's Word. And as you teach it to your children, live it out in front of them and partner with the church to help you teach them even more.
Intentional Intimacy – Don't let the K.I.D.S. acrostic become Keeping Intimacy at a Distance Successfully. Be intentional about taking time to be alone with your spouse.
Consistent Discipline – Be united as parents when it comes to discipline. Talk about it before the need arises. Remember that discipline should be used to help your children choose God's best.
Strategic Structure – Decide what is important and be strategic about making it happen. Going to church each week, household chore responsibilities, time with God – these are important things. Strategically structure the time necessary to make them happen.
In the end, you must choose to make these practices a part of your everyday lives. And your decision to teach your children about a relationship with God should supersede everything. Be a winner at parenting and put K.I.D.S. to work in your family!
Write out the K.I.D.S. (Knowledge, Intimacy, Discipline, Structure) acrostic and post it in a place where you will be reminded of it daily.
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for the gift of children. Help me to be the parent You need me to be in order to raise them to be the people You have created them to be. In Jesus' name, Amen!