Acts 3:19 tells us to, “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that He will forgive your sins.” 

As parents, I believe it is extraordinarly important for our children to hear and see us pray. Not only does this promote normalcy with prayer in our home, but it allows our children an opportunity to see how we handle situations. If we are grateful, where do we go first;  to worldly friends to potentially boast, or do we go to God in thanksgiving? If a problem arises, to whom do we turn; to family to ask for their opinion or do we pray to God in supplication? Our children are watching and it’s our job as Christian mamas raise our littles to know and trust in God’s unwavering love.

How this all began: One day my three-year-old son decided it was a good idea to hurl a block at his seventeen-month-old sister, hitting her smack-dab in the back of head. Instead of putting him in time out — which if I’m being completely honest, I would normally would do — I took a deep breath and allowed the Lord to bring forth an opportunity to use this as a teaching moment. I knelt down next to him and softly asked him to apologize. He said sorry and gave her a hug; but this time I took it a step further and I told him he needed to pray to God for forgiveness. With a slight look of confusion, he did it. We moved on and proceeded with our day.

Fast forward to just after dinner and he, yet again, did something against his younger sister. Just as I asked him to notice how sad Rory was and after giving him the, “we need to be more considerate” speech, he closed his eyes and began to pray. “Jesus, please help me to be a better Ivo. I’m sorry I took a toy from sissy and made her cry. Amen.”

What?!

I had no idea that the simple act repentance earlier that day would have enough impact for him to remember it, nonetheless pray for forgiveness on his own. It was in this moment when I realized it was time to dig deeper in our relationship with God through prayer. Since this scenario, about four weeks ago, we have made it a point to not only repent during our nighttime prayers but to also stop what you are doing and confess your sinful behavior to Christ, as it happens. Since doing this we have seen significant improvements in his behavior.

Mamas, I am challenging you to try intentional repentance in your home with your children. After one week, I will check back and I would love to hear how this simple act of obedience improves your relationship with your child, and even more so, your child’s relationship with their Father.

Have a blessed Monday,
Amity