Have you ever wished your child came with a step-by-step blueprint? One that included navigating through the ever-changing complexities of growing up, from the wordless cries of infancy to the hormone-driven reactions of middle and high school?
But God doesn’t give us a blueprint…or does He?
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV)
Wait a minute--every good work would include parenting! God has given us the “blueprint,” so to speak, for raising our children in the Scriptures–the Bible.
Now I know, the Bible doesn’t say exactly what to do with that baby who won’t go to sleep or that middle schooler who’s determined not to do his schoolwork. But it tells us what we need to walk through these stages in a righteous way. It tells us to pray and “give thanks” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV). It tells us that, “A soft answer turns away wrath,
but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1 ESV). It encourages wise counsel (Proverbs 24:6), and tells us we need others (Hebrews 10:24-25). It bids us give Jesus, our Great High Priest who understands (Hebrews 4:14-16), our cares (1 Peter 5:7).
It offers us Jesus, and encourages us to let Him use the “various trials” (James 1:2) in our lives (including parenting!) to grow us. As we look at Jesus and trust what He has revealed in His Word, not our own understanding, He promises to lead and guide us.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)
I’m a sinner saved by grace through Jesus Christ. I’m also a writer—I’ve been writing ever since I could hold a pen. I… 
