When Husbands and Wives Become Moms and Dads: A 3-Day Marriage Planഉദാഹരണം

The Bottom line

"Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it." (Proverbs 22:6)

The contradictory advice given in popular culture about what children need is enough to drive a conscientious parent to distraction. In days past, moms and dads learned child‐rearing from their parents, who learned from theirs. Rightly or wrongly, they had a sense of confidence about what they were doing. That’s because the traditional approach to parenting boils down to some very basic ideas.

Here are just a few:

• When your children ask, “Who’s in charge?” tell them.
• When they mutter, “Who loves me?” take them in your arms and surround them with affection.
• When they defiantly challenge you, win decisively. Talk to them. Set up clear boundaries and then enforce the rules firmly and fairly.
• Expose your children to interesting things. Help them use their time wisely.
• Raise them in a stable family with two parents who love each other and enjoy a strong marriage.
• Teach them to love the Lord and understand His Word.
• Treat them with respect and dignity and expect the same in return.
• Set aside time to build friendship and love between generations. Then enjoy the sweet benefits of competent parenthood and a wonderful family!

Questions for Today...

• How are you and your spouse doing on this list of parenting basics?
• Where do you see progress?
• Which ones need special attention?

Prayer . . .

Father, thank You for the timeless wisdom that I can follow to help me raise our children right. May I parent wisely and lovingly, trusting in Your blessing. Amen.

(Excerpted from Dr. James and Shirley Dobson’s book, Night Light for Couples. Used with permission.)

Bonus Content: Firm Objectives in Parenting

Like runway lights in the dark, both love and respect are crucial guidelines for every parent to rely on.