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Spring has arrived, at least here in the South, as evidenced by the time my husband spent working in the yard this weekend. Killing weeds, fertilizing grass, and sprucing up the landscaping is part of the season.
So it is with our children. As moms, we are constantly pruning and fertilizing, helping our children remove negative qualities while adding positive ones that will enable them to grow strong and healthy.
What does it take to grow a child? No matter the season of parenting, there are certain components to be considered.
Here are three that I have found valuable.
1. Patience. Just as in gardening, our efforts aren’t going to pay off right away. Like waiting for our plants to bloom, so it could be weeks, months, or years before we see the results of the consistent prayer, love, time, and discipline that we have invested. Yet we must continue on, following the principles that God has given us.
2. Self-sacrifice. Especially in the early years of motherhood, we are often called upon to put our wishes and desires aside in order to meet the needs of our children. Even now, there are nights when I would rather sit on the couch and read a book by myself than head to our daughters’ room to read aloud. However, I know that they treasure that time and that it is a way of building our relationship.
3. Respect. A child grows well when we respect him for who he is. Every child has a unique personality. Techniques that impact one child may have no effect on another. We can respect our children enough to learn how they are wired so that we can minister to them effectively.
What other traits do you think are important in helping to grow our children?
What an insightful post, Tracey. I couldn't agree more. I love the traits you chose and the analogies you used to explain them! 🙂
A big one that I am learning is modeling trust in the Lord in all things to our children. I realize that they need to see me going to God and His Word for every decision, every concern, every need that we have. I want them to know that God is in control and that we are fully depending on Him through all things. The Lord has really been burdening me to show this to our children more ~ to give him the trust and credit He rightfully deserves. He's helping me everyday with this!
Great post!
What a great addition to the list! How important it is that we openly live before our children the Biblical principles that we talk about and share with them examples of how Christ is currently working in our lives.
Amen, and again amen! this is so true!!!! spring as come early here 🙂
It really does take a lot of self-sacrifice and patience to raise children. I have to ask God every day for enough of those to make it through the day.