Strong Parenting Begins with Being Intentional
By Dr. Randy Carlson
Successful parenting requires intentional living. You have to ask the right questions. What is your intention for raising your child? What kind of relationship do you want with your child? The best place to begin is with God’s intention for your family.
Here are five quick tips as you intentionally get on the same page with your spouse or your child’s other parent.
- Pray daily. Pray (together as a couple, if possible) for your child’s future, career, spouse and life choices and that your child would grow to love God’s Word (Ps. 19:10).
- Focus on their individual qualities. Remind them of their unique gifts and value to God (Psalm 139).
- Give them space to learn. Don’t jump in and do for them what they’re capable of doing for themselves (Proverbs 22:6).
- Consider all of your dreams. Talk to your children about their dreams for the future. Or go after one of your own dreams. It will encourage your children to do the same (Proverbs 13:12).
- Have realistic expectations. Anytime expectations are greater than reality, disappointment is the result (Proverbs 27:17-19).
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