Are you trying to be a Pinterest Parent?

May 1st, 2020

Hi everyone! I wanted to talk about the pressures of parenting, especially right now.

Do you find yourself striving to be that “Pinterest Parent” who has a perfect color coded schedule with a perfect plan for school work, Bible study, nutritious snacks and exercise?

Some of you are doing all of that AND trying to work from home. Are you emptying yourself into your kids as you make sure they are getting the very best education, have the strongest Biblical foundation and want for nothing? I know it can be so tempting to constantly feel like you are trying to win the “Best Quarantine Parent” trophy…..but guess what? It doesn’t exist!

I’m not trying to say we shouldn’t be doing the best we can with our resources….the Bible teaches us that our children have been entrusted to us by God and we have a responsibility to teach them about our Lord and Savior. Our goal is to be like Jesus, that is where we are aiming. But when we fall short, God is there to extend us grace. Where do you need to extend yourself grace? Where do you need to extend grace to your kids? Your spouse?

This is a stressful time and it can be hard to prioritize all of the tasks, but don’t despair! Pray and make time for God. I know that seems impossible, but try to find a quiet moment for Him to lead you. Let go of the feeling that you have to control all of it and it has to be perfect. What would happen if your kids went to bed tonight still wearing their pajamas from the night before? What would happen if they were on their tablet for way longer than they are allowed? It will be OK….if you are doing the best you can to raise kids who know the Lord and are cared for then you are doing a good job!

We love you and we are here for you! Check out the LFCC website for our new recommendations page. Not only does it have some reading options for you parents, but I have updated it with some digital resources for the kids. Let them have more screen time but use it to further God’s message in their lives! There are YouTube channels with all kinds of great messages so make sure you check it out first and then introduce it to your kids. It’s a great way to give them what they want but you know that the foundation is God’s word. And maybe while they are engaged in a great story on their tablet you will have a minute to breathe and talk to God….and give yourself a break!

Remember… comparison is the thief of joy. Pastor Ed once taught that joy is a discipline. It requires keeping your focus on God. So stop comparing what you are doing to the Facebook or Instagram stories. Focus on bringing joy to your family and yourself! (The rest will follow)