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Day 3: Parenting

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Day 3: Parenting

August 7, 2025 by jeffstapleton

“He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; He gently leads those that have young.”

Isaiah 40:11

As the school year begins, many parents feel the weight of responsibility more than ever—navigating schedules, school pressures, emotional needs, and the uncertainty of their child’s inner world. Parenting today is complex, especially in a culture that often promotes performance over connection and independence over relationship. Add to that the mental, emotional, and spiritual challenges many students are carrying, and parents can feel overwhelmed, ill-equipped, or even discouraged.

But God sees you, parents. He does not rush, demand perfection, or abandon you in our struggle. He offers Himself as the Good Shepherd—strong and near, present and wise. We don’t have to parent in our own strength. We are invited to follow His lead.

Trust-Based Relational Intervention® (TBRI) reminds us that connection is the foundation of healing and growth. When children are dysregulated or defiant, their greatest need isn’t control—it’s connection. Scripture echoes this: “Love covers a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8), and “A gentle answer turns away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1). Parenting isn’t just about behavior; it’s about building trust through presence, empathy, and consistent care—the same way God parents us.

Practice: Make this your own

As the school year begins, let’s intercede for parents: that they would feel God’s presence in their parenting, trust His leadership, and learn to lead their children through love, not fear. Pray against what the world says about parenting and pray for the truth of God to lift up our parents.

You have to be the perfect parent God’s grace is sufficient for you (2 Corinthians 12:9)
You must fix every problem Cast your cares on Him (1 Peter 5:7)
Your child’s behavior defines your success Your identity is in Christ, not your performance (Galatians 2:20)
Control is the key to obedience Connection brings healing (John 15:5; TBRI Principle)
You don’t have time to slow down Be still and know that I am God (Psalm 46:10)
If you don’t act tough, they won’t respect you The fruit of the Spirit is gentleness (Galatians 5:22–23)
If you make a mistake, your child will be ruined God is faithful to restore (Joel 2:25)
You have to carry this alone Bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2)
← Day 2: Emotional & Mental Health
DAY 4: Fear →

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