Parenting Acrostic

I had the privilege of sharing a short talk/devotion at my sister-in-law's baby shower. This is what I shared with everyone:

PARENTING

P is for prayer. Parenting is praying. It is our highest calling and greatest privilege to pray for our child. Seeking God’s guidance, wisdom for this child placed in your responsibility.

A is for advocate. As a parent, you alone will feel the deep desire for success, care, love, etc of your child.
You are their biggest cheerleader, bully, protector, strongest VOICE for your child. Advocate for your child’s well being, education, friends, etc.

R is for rejoice. Rejoice in your child, in each and every stage. Celebrate who he/she is, her/his accomplishments. Sometimes a child is not who you dreamed it would be – rejoice in how God made him/her.

E is for exhaustion. Parenting takes a lot of energy. Sleepless nights, continuous motion, activities, projects, chasing after small legs that never seem to tire. Take care of yourself to keep up with this bundle of energy.

N is for nurturing. Providing for the needs of food, shelter, love, security. Take care of your relationship with the Lord, your marriage, yourself, your children. One of the very best to give your child stability and security… keep your marriage important, your family strong.

T is for Teaching/Training. A parent is a child’s first, ever present, and most powerful teacher. It begins with learning how to eat, sleep, talk, walk, sit down, be quite, manners, behavior. Balance with love and discipline. Discipline is as important as love.

I is for Intuition. A parent’s “gut” is God given! You are more in tune with your child than anyone else. Listen to it and if necessary make others listen to it!

N is for Never..give up. Each child is precious and parenting will likely be your most challenging job. Through any situation with your child - NEVER give up. God put this child into your life know you were the perfect parent! Take a break for a weekend (many willing to help you) but never give up.

G is for Go. Go back to prayer. When you think you have prayed enough, go back and pray again.


Now for the 'fun' acrostic:

P = peeing, pooping, puking
A = accidents
R = running
E = exhaustion
N = naps
T = teasing
I = imagination
N = naps
G = giggles