Parenting by Design - July 5

Looking Heavenward

Colossians 3:1-2:  "Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.  Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth" (NASU).

In parenting, our discontent and pride can reveal areas where we get caught up in the "things that are on earth".  We can be pretty competitive when we compare our children to other kids.  We feel validated when they are a star athlete or an academic whiz, but we get upset when they are overlooked or unmotivated.  We find ourselves buying into the value system of other parents.   

How can we set our minds on things above?  Start the day praising God.  Ask Him to reveal your motivations.  Recognize where you are seeking the approval of others over the approval of God for you and your kids.  Seek His wisdom through Bible study and prayer.  God provides these resources, but we "set our minds on things above" when we incorporate them into our parenting.

Make a conscious effort each day to focus on what is eternally important.