5 Temptations Every Parent Goes Through & How God's Word Can Guide You

As a parent, you face a number of temptations related to your responsibilities related to raising a child. Thankfully, there are numerous instances in the Bible where God has guided parents in ways to avoid temptations, such as the ones listed below.

Losing Your Temper

Being a parent requires a level of patience that few young people have. Before becoming a parent, many people simply haven’t developed sufficient patience. But children move slower, and they do and say things that often ire parents.

In turn, parents need to learn how to temper their own moods and feelings so as not to verbally lash out at children. Remember, children’s memories are like sponges, and the words you say in anger today may be remembered forever by your children.

In James 1:19-20, we read,

“Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”

Not Making the Effort to Bring up Children in Faith

With so many things on the calendar; playdates, recitals, dance lessons, sports games, and birthday parties, parents in today’s modern world have hectic schedules.

When it comes time to pray together or attend services, it can be tempting to take that time instead to relax and do nothing. But be careful because one week off from services can turn into a habit.

It’s just as important—more so!— to bring children up in faith as it is to have them improve their soccer or dancing skills.

In 3 John, 1:4, the Bible tells us,

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”

Drinking to Alleviate Stress

Everyone knows that Jesus and his Disciples partook of wine. Today, social drinking is acceptable. Many parents, under stress, are tempted to turn to alcohol to try to escape that stress. But too much of a good thing is not a good thing.

In 1 Peter, 5:8, the Bible tells us,

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

Remember, it’s easy to let alcohol overcome you and get control of your life. If you must drink, consider abstaining at home and only enjoying moderate use when at social functions.

Holding Grudges

Most parents will experience times when their children are hurtful, either knowingly or unknowingly. It may be tempting to hold a grudge against your child when they do something particularly bad, especially when it’s done purposefully. But God teaches us to forgive.

In Luke, 15:11:32, Jesus tells of the prodigal son, who returns home after many years away and is welcomed by his father with open arms.

In Matthew, 6:15, we are reminded,

“But if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

Being Too Lavish With Gifts

Every loving parent wants to give their children material things that they think will make the child happy.

But being lavish with gifts sends the wrong message and can spoil a child.

Hebrews 13:5 tells us,

“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Take heart in the Bible’s messages about parenting and avoid these temptations as much as possible. When you do so, you will find peace and harmony in your home and within your family.