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Standing Firm: A Devotional for Parents Facing Rebellion

• Navigating Parenting Challenges with Faith

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In this devotion, Dr. Dean Alley discusses the challenges of parenting, particularly when faced with rebellion from children. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one's sinful nature, maintaining faithfulness, and exercising spiritual authority through prayer. The conversation emphasizes the significance of unconditional love and forgiveness, trusting in God's timing, and the importance of perseverance in parenting. Dr. Alley encourages parents to model faith and keep a journal of God's promises to navigate the complexities of raising children in today's world.

Takeaways

  • This devotion is for God's glory.

  • Parenting can be challenging, especially with children who are rebellious.

  • We all deal with our sinful nature and its consequences.

  • Faithfulness matters in parenting, regardless of the child's behavior.

  • Pray specifically for your child's spiritual life and growth.

  • Mirror unconditional love for your children, even in difficult times.

  • Trust God's timing in the parenting journey.

  • Keep a journal of God's promises to encourage yourself.

  • Model faith and resilience for your children.

  • Stand firm in your faithfulness, as it will bear fruit.

Introduction

Parenting is a sacred calling, yet it can be fraught with challenges, especially when children turn rebellious. The pain of dishonor and defiance can wound deeply, leaving mothers and fathers questioning their efforts. However, the Bible assures us that our faithfulness matters, even when it feels unseen. This devotion offers three practical points to guide parents through such trials, grounded in Scripture, along with questions to reflect on and a personal story to encourage perseverance. Let us stand firm in faith, trusting God’s work in our families.

Point 1: Stand Firm in Spiritual Authority

When children rebel, it’s tempting to respond with anger or despair, but parents are called to exercise spiritual authority through prayer and steadfastness. Rebellion is not just a personal affront; it is a spiritual battle. Ephesians 6:12 (KJV) reminds us, “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” By standing in faith, you align with God’s power, not your strength.

Practical Advice: Instead of arguing or forcing compliance, dedicate time daily to pray specifically for your child’s heart. Speak blessings over them, even in their rebellion, and ask God to break through spiritual barriers. Maintain your dignity by responding with grace, not retaliation.

Reflection Questions:

  • How often do you pray specifically for your child’s heart and spiritual protection?

  • Are you reacting to rebellion with frustration, or are you seeking God’s strength to respond with grace?

Story of Experience: A mother once shared how her teenage son mocked her faith and refused to listen. She felt defeated, but she was committed to praying for him every morning. One night, after months of silence, he broke down and confessed his struggles. Her consistent prayers had softened his heart, proving that spiritual authority prevails over time.

Point 2: Love Without Condition

Christ’s love on the cross was unconditional, even for those who rejected Him. As parents, we are called to mirror this love, forgiving our children despite their disrespect. Luke 23:34 (KJV) records Jesus saying, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” This same forgiveness can transform our relationship with our children, showing them the heart of God.

Practical Advice: Choose one intentional act of love daily for your child, regardless of their attitude—perhaps a kind note, a favorite meal, or a moment of listening without judgment. Let your actions reflect Christ’s love, planting seeds of grace in their hearts.

Reflection Questions:

  • Can you identify moments where you’ve withheld love due to your child’s rebellion?

  • How can you show Christ-like love to your child this week, even if they don’t reciprocate?

Story of Experience: A father struggled with his daughter’s defiance, feeling tempted to withdraw. Instead, he began leaving encouraging notes in her room. Over time, she softened, and years later, she thanked him for never giving up. His unconditional love had been a quiet testimony of God’s grace.

Point 3: Persevere in Faith, Trusting God’s Timing

Parenting rebellious children can feel like sowing seeds without seeing fruit. Yet, Galatians 6:9 (KJV) encourages, “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season, we shall reap, if we faint not.” God sees your faithfulness, and your prayers are never in vain. Trust His timing to bring your child back to Him.

Practical Advice: Keep a journal of your prayers and God’s promises for your child. Revisit it during moments of discouragement to remind yourself of God’s faithfulness. Stay consistent in your example of faith, knowing that your perseverance will be a lasting legacy.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are you growing weary in your efforts to pray and love your child, or are you trusting God’s timing?

  • What legacy of faith do you want to leave for your child, regardless of their current attitude?

Story of Experience: A couple prayed for their wayward son for years, despite his rejection of their values. They felt hopeless, but they continued to model faith. One day, he returned, seeking their wisdom after facing life’s hardships. Their perseverance had kept the door open for his return, just like the prodigal son’s father.

Closing Summary and Application for Parenting Today

Parenting in today’s world is challenging, with cultural pressures and spiritual battles amplifying rebellion. Yet, these three principles—standing firm in spiritual authority, loving without condition, and persevering in faith—equip parents to navigate these storms. By praying consistently, showing Christ-like love, and trusting God’s timing, you create a legacy of faithfulness that transcends temporary disrespect. In a world where instant results are valued, parenting requires enduring faith. Your prayers, love, and example are planting seeds that God will bring to fruition. Stand tall, for your faithfulness is not measured by your child’s current attitude but by your obedience to God. He is still writing your family’s story, and your steadfastness will bear fruit in His perfect time.

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