The Warrior’s Bride: Military Family ResiliencySample

WHEN THE TWO BECOME THREE

Parenting. It’s a little word for a huge job. The kind of parents we become is often influenced by our personalities, the kind of parents we had, the life we’ve lived, and the choices we’ve made. Books can be helpful, but ultimately good parents must be great students.

Learning your child’s personality and love language is critical. Recognizing that holding and being able to influence their heart is more important than controlling their behavior is vital. But the most strategic thing you can do for your child is pray.   

• Pray that they would come to know Christ and desire a relationship with Him that lasts their entire lives.    
• Pray that they would never be apathetic in their relationship with God, but always be drawn to love Him above all else. Pray that they would be bold in their faith, to the point that their example challenges you to draw closer to God.    
• Pray that they would always get caught when they sin and that they would have a heart softened toward doing things God’s way.    
• Pray that they would be protected—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually—from Satan and his plans for them. Ask that they would be able to identify when their enemy seeks to either distract or damage them, and that they would see the way out that God provides (1 Corinthians 10:13).    
• Pray these same desires for their future spouse, asking God to unite them into a mighty force on the Kingdom battlefield. 

Consider:   

• Consider your child’s traits and characteristics. What did God put into their heart or personality that you are thankful for?    
• Which trait currently needs prayer and consistent training?

Pray:

Father, parenting might be the toughest assignment You’ve given me. I want to teach these children in my words and actions that You are good, faithful, and trustworthy. Help me to steward the little ones around me and to always point them to You.