Parenting by Design - December 12

Moms and Dads

1 Thes. 2:7, 11-12: But we were gentle among you, like a mother caring for her little children… For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory (NIV).

These verses describe the qualities necessary to raise well-rounded children in a spiritual family. Some of these qualities are associated with moms, such as patience, gentleness and a devotion for her children that makes her want to spend time with them and nourish them, physically and spiritually. Other qualities are associated with dads, such as encouragement, comfort and urging their children to live lives worthy of the Lord.

Paul and the other missionaries supplied these qualities to the believers in Thessalonica so that they could grow spiritually. He filled the role of both mom and dad, and he also gave us a beautiful picture of the needs of kids and the roles of parents in meeting those needs. Whether you are in a one- or two-parent family, the kids' needs are the same. But take heart, God will equip each of you to do the job He has called you to (Heb. 13:21).

Trust God for the strength and qualities necessary to raise your children.