It’s very important to me that my little ones start off their day in great spirits.
The mornings are a time for Aiden and me to connect on a different level. We read a daily devotion, pray, and listen to music. I find ways of doing this before school while enjoying breakfast and coffee together. We also may sneak in moments throughout the day or before bed. Believe it or not, kids notice the little things and enjoy moments when they are able to connect.
The following is a practical example of how I used devotions in parenting.
My Son’s Story
What do you do when you ask your child, “How was your day at school?” and he responds with, “This boy in my class called you weird.”
I responded with, “Well, that wasn’t very nice to say to someone.” But then I asked, “Has he ever seen your mommy?” He explained that the young boy had indeed seen me one day after school as I was picking up Aiden from school. My son then began to express that he didn’t think his choice of words was nice, that he told his friend he wouldn’t think his mommy was weird if he got to know me.
The following morning, Aiden and I happened to read the devotion, “Take a Break from Judging” from Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions For Kids by Sarah Young. The entry discussed Matthew 7:1, warning us not to judge. Good timing, right?
That afternoon, Aiden got out of school and ran through the door. I could tell he was eager to tell me something because I couldn’t even ask, “How was your day?” What came out of that boy’s mouth was not what I expected from a five year old.
“Mom, today at school, I spoke with my friend and asked him, ‘How would you like if someone called your mom weird, or your parents or family? My mom is not weird; she is a blessing, and my baby brother is a blessing. And the things she does and wears are not weird. You wouldn’t like it if someone called your mom weird, right?'”
The young boy had responded, “No, I’m sorry. Your mom is not weird, and I will not say that again.”
That’s when Aiden said, “Mom, my friend learned a lesson today.”
Changing Perspectives
Even when you don’t see immediate fruits from a devotional, inspirational time with your children, keep at it. Your children are listening and watching. Make the time to cultivate their spiritual lives.
Your child sees your every move, dedication, strength, and willingness. And at times, I feel as mothers we can judge ourselves and critique our every move, when in actuality our children see us in a different light on a whole different level and perspective. Inspirational moments may not always be perfect, but they are valuable.
Having conversations with our kids about faith, life lessons, and self-reflect helps set the pace for the day, but it also encourages them and helps them to lead and become strong. I believe it starts with me, and leading well by reading devotionals has changed not only my perspective but also my child’s outlook on life and his perspective on situations.
Truer words have never been spoken! I find that when I spend time with my kids,even in their teenage years going over devotions and hearing their feedback, it is absolutely amazing as well as a teachable moment for me. It’s imperative that we spend time discussing the word of God and giving them the freedom to verbalize their thoughts and understanding of God’s Word. Thank you so much for sharing. I wish nothing but the best for you and your family.
Great article! Well written. Is what every parent should do. Finding out how your child is doing at school fuel connection between parent and child. The more child open up his feeling the better the for the parent help him solve it.
So Inspiring! As a new parent myself, I often wonder if the life-lessons I try to instill in my kids are effective even in the slightest of ways. Although I wish for it, I know every day will not always be perfect for our kiddos. However this is a nice reminder how important it is to build our kids up in faith and give them the courage to talk to us about the things they don’t always understand. Thanks for the read Cameron!
Cam, I love that you are a wonderful mom. God is blessing you exponentially!! Love you Shy-Shy.
Love the article!! Wonderful job writing and I love the Jesus Calling book! So good!
Love this! My big kids and I do the same book every morning. I love how it sets our hearts for the day ❤️
I live this, my big kids and I use the same book every morning. I love how it sets our hearts for the day. ❤️
This is such a beautiful testament to how the Lord works through the little things. I pray that you will continue to find the strength to obediently be in His word and to model that for Aidan and the rest of your family. Thank you for sharing!
Beautiful testimony. This young lady is a blessing to her family and others that are going through. Trust, have faith and believe In the higher power name Jesus. Continue to stand! We will continue to keep her and the boys in our prayers.