"Solomon, you must understand that the Lord has chosen you to build his holy place—the Temple. Be strong and finish the job.”  1 Chronicles 28:10 ERV

In the text above, David charges Solomon to be strong and courageous in executing and finishing the temple.  Similarly, we start our year with a reminder of our charge as parents, to build and deliver to the Father, a ready Church in the children we raise. We have been called to start and finish a "work" as parents and by His grace, we shall finish strong in Jesus' name. Amen.

There are bound to be trials, tribulations, and warfare when we start engaging with God's purposes for our families. The enemy will want to distract and derail us just so we fail. The enemy can't stop God's work on the earth but can weaken and derail God's workmen from the work.

Tribulation in the form of financial strain, work pressure, spousal strife, disobedience from our children, and in some cases, a direct onslaught on our lives such as health challenges, job loss, or in the lives of our children in the areas of addictions and mental health issues that threaten to separate them from God.

The charge again is "be strong and finish the work!", one day at a time.  God is for us and on our side to see us attain the victory. He says in His word:

"...For in this unbelieving world, you will experience trouble and sorrows, but you must be courageous, for I have conquered the world!” John 16:33b TPT

As we begin a new chapter in our journey as parents occasioned by the gift of time spread across 52 grace-filled weeks, let His promise of help strengthen our resolve to grow and succeed in our roles as parents this year, as we match on in Jesus' victory.

Rearview mirrors & roadmaps

The start of a new year is also a time to review and put plans in place to chart new courses and set sail for success as parents if we haven't done so already.

1. What were the victories from last year?

2. How do you sustain the momentum from that victory?

3. What were the gaps in our relationship with our children? How do we intentionally close those gaps?

4. What areas do we need to support our children in the coming weeks so that they can succeed spiritually, academically, and in their relationships with others?

5. What are your plans for REST and spiritual revitalization?

Nothing happens by chance; every successful endeavour begins with a plan of action. Being intentional and prayerfully committing the work ahead to the Father is crucial to any success we hope to achieve this year.

1. The Power of empathy and support; being the lifeline your child needs

Last year, my daughter's usually sparkling grades dimmed due to distractions. A harsh reprimand from her father only deepened her discouragement, leaving her questioning her abilities and drowning in tears. Witnessing her struggle, I knew a different approach was needed. Instead of reprimands, we replaced them with love and encouragement. We revisited her past successes, reminding her of her brilliance. We then tackled the root of the issue – lack of planning and study. Together, we crafted a study plan, offering support and guidance.

The transformation in her was remarkable. She gained confidence, replacing her doubts. This week, she proudly announced that she aced her first test! Witnessing her joy, I saw God's hand at work, weaving courage and hope into the tapestry of our children's lives through the threads of love, unwavering support, and the grace that God has gifted us as parents to provide in moments of life's challenges.

For some families, the challenges go deeper than distractions. Mental health struggles or addiction can feel like insurmountable mountains. In these situations, a supportive presence can be your child's lifeline. Consider what adjustments you can make to be more available, whether it's flexible work hours, family therapy, or simply carving out dedicated time for listening and connection. Remember, every small act of support is a step towards healing.

Nehemiah is an example when we seek understanding on how to respond to the enemy's onslaught against our decision to build something for God. We will refer to the book of Nehemiah 4:1-23 throughout our discourse.

2. Dealing with darts of distractions

Just as Nehemiah faced opposition when rebuilding the temple, we will encounter obstacles in raising Godly children. But let's draw inspiration from his unwavering faith. His words remind us that God's plans prevail, even when the enemy tries to derail us. Keep your mind focused on the Lord, your hands stretched out in prayer, and know that you're not alone in this battle. God is with you, every step of the way. Job 5:12-13 says:

"He frustrates the plans of schemers so the work of their hands will not succeed. He traps the wise in their own cleverness so their cunning schemes are thwarted". Job 5:12-13 NLT

The enemy isn't thrilled when we elevate God's standards in our families. He throws distractions and discouragement our way, hoping to derail our efforts. Just like Nehemiah faced mockery and taunts, we may encounter similar negativity. But remember, his bluster is an empty noise compared to the power of God.

Nehemiah didn't raise fists; he raised his voice to God. This year, let prayer be our weapon of choice. Every battle for our families, from rebellious teens to struggling marriages, finds its victory in the throne room of prayer. Choose faith over fear, praise over panic, and watch God answer with a peace that surpasses understanding

Nehemiah 4:10 speaks to the weariness that comes from long-standing battles that don't seem to diminish. Fatigue can creep in during long battles, especially when victories seem distant. Some of us are weary and burdened by last year's struggles. But even when the path ahead appears shrouded in darkness, remember this: prayer is our unwavering light.

Don't let weariness silence your prayers. Pray, not just once or twice, but persistently, with unwavering faith. Let your prayers be a battering ram against the walls of despair. Remember, God can carve a path through any wilderness. Have offences created distance? Pray through it! Forgive yourselves and each other, allowing God's love to mend broken hearts and bridge the gaps. The enemy seeks cracks in our armour, but we won't give him an inch. Let love be our shield, our comfort, and our weapon against despair.

3. The twin forces of prayer and presence.

Nehemiah 4:14 echoes like a battle cry: fight for what you love! Our families, our spouses, our children – these are worth every ounce of strength and every whisper of prayer. We stand in the gap for them, not just with words, but with tangible acts of love.

For children far away, bridge the distance with more than phone calls. Make time for video chats, surprise them with a visit, and send handwritten notes. Be a listening ear, a shoulder to lean on, a heart that's always present, even miles apart. But don't forget those close to home. Hold hands at the dinner table, pray together before bed, listen without judgment, and offer a hug after a bad day. Let your love be a tangible, daily reminder that they are cherished, supported, and never alone.

Remember, presence is more powerful than a thousand words. In the fight for our families, our actions and prayers both work in tandem. Be present, be loving, be the unwavering force that shields your family from harm.

4. Let every joint supply!

Nehemiah 4:16 reminds us that a thriving family is built on each member fulfilling their role with dedication. Fathers, as priests and protectors, provide for and guide their families with unwavering strength. Mothers, as nurturers and helpers, create a haven of love and support. When spouses work together, fulfilling their roles in harmony, and children learn to take on age-appropriate responsibilities, the family becomes a symphony of love and purpose.

This year, let's commit to fulfilling our roles with renewed dedication. Let's be the fathers who lead with courage and love, the mothers who nurture with compassion and grace, and the children who contribute with respect and responsibility. Together, let's build families that resonate with love, purpose, and unity, a testament to the power of each member playing their part in God's grand design.

5. The work and the word equal faith

Nehemiah 4:17 reminds us, that even amid the busyness of parenting, we must balance action with the Word. While fathers "build" and mothers "help," both hold the sword of God's Word close. Just as a builder uses both tools and blueprints, we guide our children with both action and instruction. We don't merely tell them the way, we "train them up" – patiently teaching and practising with them until godly living becomes second nature.  The Bible says, "Train up a child in the way he should go..." (Proverbs 22:6). Training is more than just words; it's practice, patience, and walking alongside them. It is about showing them how faith translates into action, how love mends brokenness, and how forgiveness heals wounds. Let's not just speak the Bible to our children, let's live it before them, offering them a tangible blueprint for godly living.

The dictionary defines training as "teaching a person a particular skill or type of behaviour through practice and instructions over some time".  Training is two-fold; instructions and practice over some time until that which is being taught has been attained by the child. Let's plan to not only speak the bible to our children but to train them for life and godly living.

6. Seek & stay connected to support

Thankfully, God doesn't leave us alone in this multi-faceted work. He provides a plethora of resources: newsletters, podcasts, conferences, books, and even local and international faith-based communities. Don't let busyness be an excuse to miss out on these invaluable tools. Join a parenting group, attend a prayer meeting, and connect with other parents with the same values on this journey. Remember, you're not building this temple alone. God has equipped countless mentors and teachers, ready to share their wisdom and strengthen your hand. Seek them out, tap into their knowledge, and together, let's raise a generation that reflects God's glory in their lives.

7. Stay under covering!

" So none of us took off our clothes. Not me, not my men, not my brothers, not my guards" (Nehemiah 4:23 ERV). 2024 is a year to stay under covering. This year, let us embrace that commitment, staying covered in God's grace and guidance. Fathers, anchor yourselves in Christ's love. Mothers, find support and strength in your husbands. Children, respect and learn from your parents' wisdom. Let's build a family united under God's protection, where obedience and love pave the way for blessings. Together, we can face any challenge and walk into God's promises for our lives.

There's just so much that God has planned for us this year. Good plans, to bring us into His blessings for us and our families. May the Lord grant us all the grace and wisdom we need to start, sustain, and finish strong as parents in Jesus' name. Amen.