Biblical Answer

Can I Still Be a Good Parent When I'm Struggling?

As a parent, you may be struggling with various issues, such as discipline, education, or even spiritual guidance. It's essential to acknowledge that parenting is valuable and has enduring effects. Notwithstanding the exceptions that we all know, it is generally true that good teaching and discipline in a family will strike a positive response from a child. However, as a Christian, we must recognize that we are not sovereign, and our children's outcomes are ultimately in God's hands. Our responsibility is to be an example of godly faith, teach them the gospel, and exemplify love for all things pure and holy.

The Struggle is Real

It's undeniable that parenting can be a challenging and emotionally draining experience. No area of your life can make you feel more like a success when everything is going well, and no area can make you feel more like a failure when things go wrong. The fear of failure can be overwhelming, especially when you feel like you're not doing a good job. However, as Christians, we must remember that our worth and identity are not defined by our parenting abilities. We are loved and valued by God regardless of our successes or failures. It's essential to put our trust in Christ for salvation and to recognize that our children's outcomes are not solely our responsibility.

Finding Strength in Struggle

While it's easy to get caught up in the struggles of parenting, it's crucial to remember that our struggles can be opportunities for growth and development. As the Bible says, "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28). Perhaps God wants to use your present troubles to make you a better person. Look beyond your present struggles and remember that God has used past troubles to make you stronger. As you navigate the challenges of parenting, don't give up. Keep seeking God's guidance and wisdom, and trust that He will use your struggles to shape you into a better parent and a more faithful follower of Christ.