IMPRESS: A Parent's Guide to Passing on FaithНамуна

The final S of IMPRESS is for Surrender.

Today, we're reflecting on 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, a passage that reminds us of God's all-sufficient grace and His power perfected in our weaknesses.

As parents, we often strive for perfection, hoping to be everything our children need. We want to make the right decisions, provide the best guidance, and be a constant source of support and strength. However, the reality is that we will never be perfect parents. There will be times when we fall short, make mistakes, and face situations that feel like a thorn in the flesh - irritatingly painful and difficult to bear.

In these moments of weakness, it's crucial to remember the words that the Lord spoke to Paul:

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)

God doesn't expect us to have it all together. He knows our limitations and invites us to lean on His all-sufficient grace. He knows we won’t do it all, be it all, and have the right words every time.

The Holy Spirit invites us to acknowledge our weaknesses and surrender them to God. This opens the door for His power to work through us in ways we could never achieve in our own strength.

It's comforting to know that God's grace fills the gaps where we fall short. His strength is made perfect in our moments of struggle and inadequacy. His grace and power are able to achieve more than we can on our own!

This doesn't mean we won't face challenges, but it does mean we can trust God to step in and carry us through. Our imperfections can become opportunities for God's power to be displayed in our lives and through our parenting.

This is also an invitation to trust that God’s power is also working in our kids' lives. We may not feel like things are going to plan, but we need to surrender our kids to God and trust that his power will work in their lives too.

Action

For You

This week, take a moment to reflect on any areas where you feel inadequate or overwhelmed as a parent. Bring these weaknesses to God in prayer, asking Him to fill the gaps with His grace and strength.

With Your Kids

Share this truth with your children, explaining that just as you rely on God's grace, they can too. Encourage them to trust in God's power in their own lives, even when things are difficult.