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Parenting by Design - August 20

A Father's Love

1 Peter 5:6-7:  "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.  Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you" (NIV).

Did you ever marvel at how quickly and intensely you began to love your kids when they were born?  Being a parent is often described as the purest and most unselfish love humans have to offer.  Although it is tough, every parent knows good discipline is really just a reflection of this love.  We follow through with consequences in the face of our kids' anger because we know short term peace is not as important as long term maturity.    

The love we have for our children, as powerful as it is, is just a faint reflection of God's love for us.  Our parenting journey gives us a unique appreciation for God's fatherly characteristics.  In this way, we are better able to understand the deep love for us that motivates His discipline. 

Parenting is a unique insight into the great depth of God's love.