Becoming a Better Mother: Casting a Vision!
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(Image credit}When Jesus changed Simon’s name to Peter (which means Rock), Simon was far from rock-like.
By the end of his life Peter grew into a strong and faithful man; firm and steadfast. I imagine Jesus’ faith in him had something to do with that.
Peter had many setbacks along the way, including denying the Lord three times, but he kept picking himself back up and traveling in the right direction.
Jesus bestowed a true gift when he expressed trust and faith in this man.
We can do the same for our children.
Casting a vision for our children is not about encouraging them to be a doctor when they grow up, it’s about giving them an end goal (heaven) and instilling in them the confidence to do what it takes to form a godly character and stand for what is right, no matter what.
Casting a vision provides a worthy standard to live up to. It helps them soar.
How can we effectively cast a vision for our children?
Frequently say things like:
I can’t wait to see what God will do with your life?
I am looking forward to seeing how you use your life to serve God.
God has given you such unique gifts, I can’t wait to see how you use them for Him.
You are going to do mighty things!
(You can probably think of less corny ways to say these, but you get the picture).
Tell them you are praying for them.
Be specific. Let them know you are praying that they will grown into a strong and faithful person.
Pray with them.
When our children hear us ask God to help them grow into good and kind people, it makes an impact. Just imagine, one day they will say, “My Mom was always praying that I would be good and kind.” And chances are, they will be.
Don't forget to pray for their future spouse! Ask that they will find a strong Christian to marry when they grow up. Ask whatever you feel is important. They hear it!
Read stories that inspire
There are many wonderful books that record brave and courageous lives of godly character. Read them to your children. Let them envision how it looks to live a worthy life.
I’m still learning how to do this and am trying to remember to say and do these things more often. Do you have any tips for casting a vision for your children? What types of things do you say or did you have said to you?
I love this! And I love how you weave the story of Jesus’ example into how we can become better mothers for our children. How applicable and TRUE! I’m definitely going to be intentional about casting a vision — like instead of saying good job, I think I should talk about the gift God has given them to have done that good job.
I am going to borrow the things to say to your kids, and start using them with DS. Thanks.