When the doubts come that you have what it takes to parent your child, you need more than a mentor to help you along the way. There are some things you need to firmly believe for yourself.
You Were Made for Parenting
God made you who you are. If he gave you the ability to bear children, it follows he has given you tools to perform the job. A woman who successfully breastfeeds understands this. Her body was made to provide nourishment for her child.
“Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you” (Isaiah 49:15 NIV).
If you’re unable to bear children, it’s still true God has put it in you to have compassion for the young ones and the desire to enrich another’s life. However a child comes to you, you can do this with his help.
Beware of Pride
It’s good to have the confidence that you were designed to parent, but be aware of the temptation to leave God’s direction out of your parenting. No one appreciates a dictator, or conversely, a neglectful parent.
As I suggested in tip #1, spend time turning your attention “in the moment” to God every day. Ask him to humbly lead you as you lead others.
“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23-24 NIV).
One vow I made as a new parent was that I’d copy my father’s example when he took us aside and apologized, asking us to forgive him. It showed me he understood he had human failings like me, and he too needed to be careful to follow Jesus.
by Kathy Sheldon Davis
kathysheldondavis.com 