Series: Love, Marriage, and the Baby Carriage
Sermon: The Pressure of Parenting
Scripture: Proverbs 22:6
Review
This week, we continued our series on relationships by focusing on the challenges and blessings of parenting and touching on the broader implications for all our relationships. We explored Proverbs 22:6, which reminds us that early investment in a child's life creates a lasting foundation for their future.
Using the semicolon in Proverbs 22:6 as a metaphor, we examined the "messy middle" of relationships—the gap between childhood innocence and the complexities of maturity—and how that gap can lead to breakthrough or heartbreak.
We learned that true investment in our relationships isn't just about instructing or lecturing; it's about being present, modeling wisdom, and actively engaging in our lives to nurture growth. Ultimately, we discovered that investing in our loved ones—whether as parents, partners, or mentors—is an act of trusting God. This allows us to love without the pressure of the outcomes landing all on our shoulders.
Apply
Reflect on the following questions as you consider your relationships:
What are some low-priority distractions or cultural pressures that have taken up your capacity to invest in the relationships that matter most?
Are you following Jesus in a way you, like the Apostle Paul, could tell others, "Imitate me, as I imitate Christ"?
What is ONE specific way you will commit to investing more intentionally in a key relationship this week? (Parents, answer for how you will invest in your children.)
Pray
Take a moment to thank God for the relationships in your life. Ask Him for the wisdom to discern what truly matters and the strength to invest in these relationships even when the journey is challenging. Pray that He would help you realign your priorities, remove distractions, and empower you to build lasting bonds that honor His purposes.
