COURAGEOUS PARENTING

“For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure” – Philippians 2:13

COURAGEOUS PARENTING gives room for God to work: “For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure” (Phil.2:13). ‘Courageous Parenting’ is Jack and Deb Graham’s branding of Impactful Parenting. Based on decades of ministry and parenting experience, the authors provide biblical models for the family, encouragement and advice to parents, and practical guidance for raising children who can withstand the pressures of modern society. The book aimed to make parenting work the way God intended, by keeping it real; sharing what the Word says, their successes, mistakes, and insights.

There is a huge difference between becoming a parent, and successfully parenting the child we have brought into the world. We can make marriage work when we know that we are not working alone. Although Paul the apostle was speaking primarily of salvation, the principle to work it out applies to marriage. Marriage is truly a threefold cord that is “not quickly broken” (Ecc.4:12b). Without the third cord, the Lord Jesus Christ binding a relationship together, it can quickly collapse into divorce.

God designed the task of bearing and raising children to be accomplished in the power of His Holy Spirit within the bonds of a faithful, loving, lifelong marriage; hence, the Biblical Plan for the Family opens on the premise that “It takes Three to Make Parenting Work.” God’s performance of the first marriage ceremony depicts the three people it takes to make a great marriage: A man and wife become one flesh, joined in spirit to the Lord at the centre. So, the biblical plan involves: The loving leadership of a husband and father; the sacrificial love and nurture of a wife and mother, and the incredible value of children.

A strong, healthy, and fulfilling marriage is the crucial foundation for a courageous parenting journey. Putting the Plan to Work involves: accepting parenting as an uncommon call as wise homebuilders; and like Joshua, taking a stand in our homes, to serve the Lord (Jos.24:15). Courageous parents are committed to instil Godly Traits in their children, namely:

Confidence: Children are encouraged to be secure in their identity in Christ and family.

Conviction: Children are helped to understand what they believe and why, so they can stand on their convictions.

Character: True Character comes from conviction, not just outward conformity to rules.

Compassion: Is modelled and opportunities created for children to serve others.

Competence: Practical life skills and spiritual abilities are cultivated so they can succeed in what God calls them to do.

Love for the church: Love for the body of believers is instilled through regular, intentional church attendance. 

Marriages may be made in heaven; but are worked out on earth: “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (v.12b).