“And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the Champion who initiates and perfects our faith” (Hebrews 12:1-2).

Settling into summer, many families with kids fresh out of school are breathing a collective sigh of RELIEF. Beautiful weather, vacations, swimming pools—summertime is in full swing! The welcome change of a slower pace is also time for reflection on the frazzled life we’ve led the past school year. We vow to find a better balance with improved planning, schedules, and to-do lists, while committing to saying “no” a little more often before moving forward into the next school season.

When bombarded as parents with decisions and activities, it’s a challenge to not fret over details. It’s especially wearisome trying to “keep up with the Joneses.” In due time, our best parenting will come if we stay the course, trust God, and don’t give up (Galatians 6:9). It’s wise to limit commitments and activities when, as a parent, you sense what’s best. Give yourself grace, for God specifically chose you as the best parent for YOUR child! The time you invest in your kids will stick with them for a lifetime, especially as you grow spiritually in Christ as a family. God will provide the needed guidance, as He desires our success! “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ says the Lord. ‘They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for Me wholeheartedly, you will find Me’” (Jeremiah 29:11-13).

Guiding Points:

Call to Action: Prayerfully discern when to say “yes” and when to say “no.” With His help, find the healthy balance that works for your family and honors God. Set your priorities and stick to them!

“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up” (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).

“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).

“All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children” (Isaiah 54:3).

Prayer: Our Father in Heaven, we honor Your holy name today. You give us rest and nourishment for our souls! Thank you for the beauty of summer, the warm sun, and the time spent with family. Please give those who are away from family a special touch from You. Help us to depend on You for guidance to slow our pace, removing distractions that take our attention from You. You are the Potter and we are the clay. In Your precious name, we pray, Amen!

Final Thought: “Wherever you are in your journey, it’s never too late to apply God’s principles to parenting and experience His power in your home” (Tony Evans).