The world would have you believe that being a “bad mom” is on trend right now. In mainstream media, movies, meems, comedy routines…”bad moms unite!” is the mantra.
I believe this “bad mom” movement is quite dangerous to Christian parenting. I believe that peaceful parenting is godly parenting.
There are many misconceptions out there about peaceful parenting.
Peaceful parenting is not:
- Lack of discipline
- Giving your child whatever they want
Peaceful parenting is:
- Connecting with your child emotionally
- Discipline without shame
- Encouraging your child to express their emotions without judgement
- Treating your child with respect
- Showing your children compassion
Over and over in the Bible, God shows compassion on His children. I believe He expects us to show compassion towards our children as well.
How often do we rush to discipline our kids before we pause to show them compassion without seeing their hearts? How often do we push our kids away instead of building connection?
If you’ve been struggling with anger, yelling, or overwhelm, I’ve got good news for you. Today can be the start of a new chapter in your life. You can’t change the past, but you can start today and change the future.
If you desire to become a more peaceful parent, but you aren’t sure where to start, come to God. He is able. You can pray a simple prayer like this.
Dear God,
I want to thank you so much for my children. They are so precious to me. I thank you for giving me the honor of being their mother. I want to parent them in a way that honors you. Your word say that you are compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in love. Help me to be more like you. Lord, fill my heart with compassion for my children. Today I make a commitment to parent more peacefully. Please work in my heart and change me into the mom that you want me to be.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Bible verses on Compassion
“Jesus stopped and called them. “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked. “Lord,” they answered, “we want our sight.” Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him.” – Matthew 20:32-34 NIV
“When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.” – Mark 6:34 NIV
“The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.” – Psalm 103:8
We’d like to thank our Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network sponsor, Like Arrows!
FamilyLife’s first feature film LIKE ARROWS, explores the joys and heartaches of parenting with a story that spans over 50 years. Join us in theaters across America for a special 2 night showing of LIKE ARROWS followed by exclusive after-show content with the film-makers, including celebrated faith-based film-makers Alex and Stephen Kendrick as well as FamilyLife Today’s Dennis and Barbara Rainey and Bob Lepine. You’ll leave encouraged and equipped with powerful next steps to make Christ the center of YOUR parenting.
LIKE ARROWS will be in theaters for two nights only, MAY 1ST and 3RD. To view the trailer and find theater info, visit the link below. If you missed the movie in theatres be sure to check out the Digital, DVD and Blueray versions on the website, LikeArrowsMovie.com
Join Marianna Chambers as she talks about practical ways to become a more peaceful parent. Having children is a wonderful blessing, but it can also be quite stressful. Every day we hear from moms just like you who are struggling to be the gentle parent they want to be. Moms desperately want to raise their children on a firm foundation of love, but those sweet kids sure know how to push our buttons. (And boy, do they push them!)
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