THE ABCS OF CHRISTIAN PARENTING

by Robert and Debra Bruce

Affirm Build

your child every day as a gift from God, no matter what yesterdays problems were. (Matt. 7:11) upon your childs talents, seeking to discover Gods plan for him. (Matt.

25:15)

Communicate Dedicate

with your child in a way that glorifies Christ, always asking before speaking, Would I say this to a friend? (Luke 2:14) yourself to the body of Christ through commitment to a congregation, regular worship attendance, Bible study, prayer and service. Take your children and make it a priority in your life. Little eyes are always watching! (I Chron. 29:20)

Exercise

self-control when you are angry, committing your feelings to the Lord rather than using them on your child. (Eph. 4:26)

Forgive your

childs wrongdoings as the Lord forgives you and start over together with Gods grace and love. After disciplining a child always show them afterwards how much you love them by taking them in your lap and hugging them. Discipline is for correction, not anger. (Matt. 6:12)

Give your child everything he/she needs instead of everything he/she wants, even
if you have to say no. Remember: the important things in life are not things!! (Matt. 6:8)

Hug your child at least 10 times everyday, even when they are acting in ways that

dont make you feel very loving. A warm touch can erase even the largest strain in a relationship. (Mark 10:16)

Include Bible Study and prayer time into your family routine.
that will reap lasting benefits! (Matt. 18:20)

These are activities

Join

in agreement with your spouse and stand firm on rules, expectations and discipline. (Eph. 6:1)

Keep

commitments you make outside your home so that your child can observe you model responsibility. Also, Keep commitments outside your home to a minimum learn how to say no when you need to. Remember, your family is your first priority! (James 5:12)

Live

each day to the fullest, appreciating the beauty of Gods world and the hope of your faith, instead of hurrying through the day. Remind your kids of the

beautiful world that God has made for us and teach them to thank God for His blessings! (Phil. 4:8)

Manage Nurture

aspects of your childs life that could lead to stress, such as too much activity or television or inappropriate freedoms. (I Cor. 13:11) your child lovingly so he/she can experience God through your example! (Psalm 133:10)

Open the doors of opportunity for your child as you encourage the development of

his skills through education. Also, keep the lines of communication between you and your child Open always making them feel safe to come to you about anything! (1 Tim. 4:14)

Patiently wait upon the Lord as He answers prayers for you and your Question Respect

child. Also, be Patient with your children as the Lord is Patient with you! (Isaiah 30:18) the reasons for your childs unacceptable behavior as you look beyond the act to its root causes. (Prov. 4:7) your child as an individual rather than an extension of you or your spouse. (Isaiah 11:6)

Strive to create quality time with your child every day that enables you to listen to

their joys, hopes, concerns, and fears. Make sure to let them know that God is always with them He will never leave you nor forsake you! (Psalm 90:12)

Trust

God to guide you as you prayerfully make daily parenting decisions. (Matt.

21:22)

Ultimately,

trust your child when he leaves home if you have fulfilled your commitment to God as a Christian parent. (James 1:12)

Verbalize your thoughts and feelings when youre happy or

know that you are still approachable. (Titus 2:7-8)

sad, letting your child

Wait

patiently for your child to pass through stages, realizing that some behaviors, while unpleasant, are quite normal. (Heb. 12:1) eXpect the best from your child at home, at school and at play, while also extending grace for human frailty. (I Cor. 13:9-10)

Yield yourselves to the Lords way as you seek His guidance each day. (Eph. 5:9) Zealously start each day in prayer
of your family. (Col. 3:23) and praise, marveling at God's work in the life