God parents us as we parent our children.
Christian parents should be able to make this bold statement to our children: "you should follow my example, just as I follow Christ's". The Apostle Paul made this statement to new believers (1 Cor. 11:1) not out of arrogance- he did not think of himself as sinless...he could not tell them to imitate Jesus because they had not met Him, and the Gospels had not been written then. The best way then to point these new Christians to Christ was to point them to a Christian whom they trusted. In the same vein, the best way to be parents, ultimately pointing our children to Christ, is to walk in step with God as they follow us. Imitating our Heavenly Father, the best parent, is a sure step towards succeeding in the ministry of parenthood.
What does parallel parenting look like?
1. It means you're are not perfect, and you know it and are willing to work at getting better
2. It teaches you to rely more on God and not yourself because you realize how weak you are at keeping your word
3. It affords your children the blessing of learning 'first-hand' from you as you live life as a Christian
4. You come to appreciate the love, patience, kindness and mercy of God more, and by His Grace, reflect these virtues in your relationships
5. As you fall down, recover and try again everyday, you better acknowledge how God works in you, both to will and do according to His good pleasure
As we follow the patterns and instructions of God concerning everyday life, may those around us see a significant positive growth pattern in our becoming more like Jesus. May our children be able to testify to our growth, and say things like: "dad is more generous than he was a couple of years back", "Mum has certainly made a lot of progress regarding patience this year", etc.
Dear Lord, grant us the Grace to follow You more nearly and to walk alongside our children in their relationship with You. Amen.
In the end, God has no 'grandchildren'....only dearly beloved children who are loved with an everlasting love. Our children are God's children...we are temporary stewards and it's such a great honour and privilege to partner with the Most High God in raising the next generation.
