The Key to Understanding Why Parenting Is Hard
A Sinner with a Sinner
If you are a parent, I don't have to tell you that parenting is challenging. It has probably drawn out of you things you didn't think were there. The Bible is incredibly helpful in leading us to understand why it is so challenging.
Think about this: what is parenting? It is a flawed person who is commissioned to give direction and guidance and help to a flawed person. Does that discourage you? It doesn't end there. But with the help of a faithful God.
Parenting is hard because it is a sinner with a sinner. And what is the DNA of sin? 2 Corinthians 5:15 tells us that it is selfishness. I don't want to be disagreed with. I don't want to be challenged. I don't want somebody to make my day difficult. I want children who say, "Yes, father, I will forthwith go and obey you because you, sir, are wise." But I don't get that.
So it's the selfishness of my child that hooks my selfishness. It is important to understand that there is a reason why it is a struggle. But it is also important to understand that God knew you would struggle. At some point he would come, live the life you couldn't live, and die the death you should have died, so that you would have every single thing you need as a parent.
You see, it's not a mystery why this is hard. Therefore, God has entered your life with his grace. He knows it's hard. He doesn't judge you because it's hard. Instead, he meets you with help.
